Changing a birth record

If the wrong father has been recorded on the birth certificate, you can ask for a correction to remove his details. We can make this correction if the child was born in Croydon, but this has to be authorised by the General Register Office (GRO) and it can take several weeks to process the change.

Before you apply

Make sure you read the GRO guidance before you apply, as there are no refunds if we are unable to correct the birth registration.

Read 'How to apply for a correction to remove the wrong father’s details' on GOV.UK.

How to get an application form

You can either:

• download the form on GOV.UK, or
• collect it from the Croydon Register Office

Submit your application

You can either:

• post your application to Croydon Register Office
• take it in person to the Register Office

What you need to provide

You'll need to bring any documentary evidence specified in the GRO guidance showing the correct information.

How much it costs

This service costs £83 or £99, depending on the type of correction required. This fee is for your application, even if the correction is not authorised.

What happens next

We will check whether the correction can be completed locally or if it needs to be referred to the GRO.

If the correction needs to be sent to GRO we will photocopy and certify your documents so that you can keep your originals.

It can take between 1 week and 3 months for the application to be decided on, depending on how simple the request is and the quality of the evidence provided. We cannot check the status of an application until 10 weeks after you apply.

If your change is approved

We will contact you to make an appointment to make the correction. You will be able to buy corrected certificates at the appointment for £12.50 each. You can also buy certificate copies later.

If your change is not approved

We will contact you to let you know why it was not approved.