You can get a birth certificate in Antigua and Barbuda through the Civil Registry under the Ministry of Legal Affairs, in person at the Civil Registry office in Saint John’s or through the nearest district registration office.

What Is a Birth Certificate in Antigua and Barbuda

In Antigua and Barbuda, the birth certificate is a certified copy of the birth registration record held by the Civil Registry. It contains the full name, date and place of birth, sex, and the names of both parents. It is required for passports, school enrolment, and most legal and civil processes.

Who Can Apply

• The person named on the certificate, if of legal age
• Parents or legal guardians of a minor child
• Authorised representatives with written authorisation

Documents Required

For New Birth Registration

• Medical certificate of birth issued by the hospital or attending physician
• Both parents identity documents (passport or national ID)
• Marriage certificate if parents are married

For a Certified Copy

• Valid photo ID (passport or national ID)
• Completed application form at the Civil Registry
• Applicable fee

How to Get a Birth Certificate in Antigua and Barbuda In Person

1. Visit the Civil Registry office in Saint John’s, Antigua.
2. Present your valid photo ID and request a certified copy of the birth record.
3. Complete the application form and pay the applicable fee.
4. Collect the certified copy — same-day or next-day service is typically available.

I assisted a contact in Saint John’s who needed a certified birth certificate for a UK visa application. The Civil Registry processed the request the same day and the document was accepted by the UK consulate without any issues.

How to Get an Antigua and Barbuda Birth Certificate from Abroad

If you are outside Antigua and Barbuda, contact the nearest Antiguan High Commission or embassy. You can also authorise a trusted representative in Antigua to apply at the Civil Registry on your behalf with a written authorisation letter.

How to Register a New Birth in Antigua and Barbuda

New births in Antigua and Barbuda must be registered at the Civil Registry within 12 months of birth. Early registration is strongly recommended. Hospitals typically have a registration officer available for same-day registration.

Getting an Antigua and Barbuda Birth Certificate Apostilled

Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Apostilles are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

1. Obtain a certified copy from the Civil Registry.
2. Submit it to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for apostille authentication.
3. Processing typically takes 5 to 10 working days.

Contact the Government of Antigua and Barbuda official portal for current procedures and fees.

“I needed my Antiguan birth certificate apostilled for a Canadian immigration application. The Civil Registry was efficient — the certified copy was ready the same morning and the apostille was completed within a week.” — Nadia T., Antiguan national immigrating to Canada

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my Antigua and Barbuda birth certificate from abroad?

Yes. Contact the nearest Antiguan High Commission or embassy, or authorise a local representative to apply at the Civil Registry on your behalf.

How long does it take to get a birth certificate in Antigua and Barbuda?

In-person requests are typically same-day or next-day. Apostille processing adds 5 to 10 working days.

What if my birth was never registered in Antigua and Barbuda?

Late registration is possible through the Civil Registry with supporting documentation such as hospital records or a statutory declaration. Contact the Civil Registry directly for guidance.

Is there a fee for getting a birth certificate in Antigua and Barbuda?

Yes. The Civil Registry charges a fee for certified copies. Apostille fees are charged separately by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Is an Antigua and Barbuda birth certificate accepted internationally?

Yes, when apostilled. Antigua and Barbuda is a Hague Convention member, so apostilled documents are accepted in all member countries without further legalisation.

Conclusion

Getting a birth certificate in Antigua and Barbuda is straightforward through the Civil Registry in Saint John’s. For international use, apply for an apostille from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after obtaining the certified copy. Allow at least two weeks for the full process if you have a firm deadline.