Ordering a Birth Certificate or Birth Document


Experts in identity theft discourage carrying a birth certificate in a purse or wallet. The size of the new certificate makes carrying it in a wallet or purse prohibitive.

Alberta birth certificate (sample) (pdf)

Individuals may choose to include or exclude parents' information on their birth certificate.

The Alberta birth certificate:

  • Has more than 20 embedded security features (including third wall security features that cannot be communicated for security reasons)

  • Confirms Canadian citizenship

  • Is made of a durable polymer material

  • Provides greater security for citizens (protection against identity theft, fraud, tampering)

  • Will help with validation when traveling to destinations where valid travel documents include a driver’s license and birth certificate

Individuals born in Alberta who want a new birth certificate may apply for one through a registry agent. The fee for a birth certificate is $20 plus a Registry Agent’s fee. Turnaround time for certificates is typically one to two days and is subject to standard mail delivery times via Canada Post.

Alberta Vital Statistics maintains a record of all registered births that occur in Alberta and can only issue certificates or documents for those particular events. Birth certificates are issued using the information from the original Registration of Birth, completed at the time of birth. If a record cannot be found, a record search can be completed for a consecutive three-year period.

What kind of birth documents are available to order?

  • Birth Certificate with Personal Information Only

  • Birth Certificate with Personal Information and Parentage  

Proof of Parentage Requirements for Canadian Passport Applications for a Child

Effective October 1, 2012, a passport application for a child under 16 must include a proof of parentage document, which demonstrates the child-parent relationship, along with all other regular application requirements. To ensure you meet this new requirement, please order the Birth Certificate with Personal Information and Parentage.

Please note, this type of proof of parentage document is not required with a passport application if a Canadian passport has previously been issued to the child and the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) who are applying for the new passport are the same as those who applied for the previous passport.  

Who can apply for birth documents?

All Alberta Vital Statistics records are confidential and your information will not be released as there are specific guidelines and requirements that help prevent this information from being released without your consent or permission. These guidelines are detailed in who is eligible (pdf) to apply for what information. Depending on the circumstances, a person may be required to show proof that they are eligible to submit the application and apply for the certificate or document.

How can I obtain an application?

Alberta Residents - Application for Ordering Birth, Stillbirth and Marriage Documents (pdf)


Non-Alberta Residents - Registry Connect Application for Vital Statistics Documents (pdf)

How do I submit an application?

Alberta Residents must apply in person through the Registry Agent Network. For additional information about registry agents, please contact:

Edmonton: 780-427-7013
Other Areas (Alberta only): 310-0000, then dial 780-427-7013
Outside Alberta: 780-427-7013
Non-Alberta Residents may apply through Registry Connect (pdf).

How much do certificates/documents cost?

In addition to the government certificate fee, registry agents are authorized to charge a service fee.

Alberta Residents - must apply through the Registry Agent Network for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates or Photocopies of Registration

  • Marriage Licenses

  • Legal Change of Name Certificates

  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

Non-Alberta Residents - contact Registry Connect for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates or Photocopies of Registration

  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

How long does it take to process an application?

Once a registry agent submits a request or the Vital Statistics office receives an application, it is usually processed within two to three business days provided there is no additional information required.

How will the certificate/document be delivered?

Documents are mailed to the address of the person who is making the application. It is advisable to contact a Registry Agent or Registry Connect for special arrangements and/or rush services options.

Note: Documents will not be returned C.O.D.null