Registering a birth when the father has died before conception

Recording a deceased person as the father does not give the child legal rights such as inheritance or nationality. It is for registration purposes only.

If a child is conceived through fertility treatment after the death of the father, it may still be possible to record him in the birth register.

You will need to provide the following documents:

  • His written consent to the fertility treatment and to being named as the father (not required if he died before 18 September 2003)
  • Written confirmation from the clinic that his consent was not withdrawn (not required if he died before 18 September 2003)
  • Your written request for him to be named as the father
  • Confirmation of the fertility treatment from a medical professional (e.g. fertility clinic, GP, or hospital doctor)
  • His death certificate
  • Your marriage certificate (if applicable)