How to easily acquire a birth certificate in Ghana: A complete guide

News Jun 24, 2025 0 25 Add to Reading List

A birth certificate is one of the most important documents you'll ever need in Ghana. It serves as proof of identity, citizenship, and age, and is required for various official processes including school enrollment, passport applications, voter registration, and many other legal procedures.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the simple steps to obtain your birth certificate in Ghana.

Understanding Birth Certificate Types in Ghana

Ghana issues two main types of birth certificates.

Standard Birth Certificate: The most commonly issued certificate that contains basic information about the birth, including the child's name, date of birth, place of birth, and parents' details.

Certified Copy: An official copy of the original birth record that carries the same legal weight as the original document.

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Who Can Apply for a Birth Certificate

The person whose birth is being registered (if 18 years or older)
Parents or legal guardians of the child
Authorized representatives with proper documentation
Legal representatives with court orders

Required Documents

Before visiting the registration office, ensure you have the following documents ready:

For New Birth Registration:

Hospital delivery record or midwife's report (if available)
Parents' identification documents (Ghana Card, Voter ID, or Passport)
Parents' birth certificates (if available)
Marriage certificate (if parents are married)
Two passport-sized photographs of the child
Completed birth registration form (Form BR1)

For Replacement or Duplicate Certificates:

Affidavit stating the reason for replacement
Police report (if the original was lost or stolen)
Applicant's identification document
Original birth certificate (if applying for a certified copy)

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How to Apply for Birth Certificate in Ghana: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Obtain the Application Form

Visit your nearest Birth and Death Registry office or download the Form BR1 from the official Ghana Government website. The form is free and available in English and local languages.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the form completely and accurately. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents. Common sections include:

Child's full name
Date and place of birth
Parents' full names and details
Witnesses' information (if applicable)

How Much is Birth Certificate in Ghana?

The cost of obtaining a birth certificate in Ghana varies depending on the type of service you need:

Standard Fees:

New birth certificate: GHS 20
Certified copy of existing certificate: GHS 30
Replacement certificate (lost or damaged): GHS 30

Additional Charges:

Express/Rush service: Additional GHS 50 (3-5 working days)
Late registration (after 12 months): GHS 50-100
Corrections and amendments: GHS 100-200
Statutory declaration (if required): GHS 20-50

Payment Methods:

Cash payments: At registry offices
Mobile money: Through MTN, Vodafone, or AirtelTigo
Bank transfers: Via the online platform
Online payments: Through the official bdr.gov.gh website

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Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Collect all required documents as listed above. Make photocopies of all original documents as the registry office will keep copies for their records.

Step 4: Visit the Birth and Death Registry Office

Take your completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate registry office. This is typically the office in the district where the birth occurred, but you can also apply at any regional office.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Present your documents to the registry officer who will: