You can get a birth certificate in the Marshall Islands through the Office of the Registrar under the Ministry of Health and Environment, in person at the office in Majuro or through the local government offices on other islands.

What Is a Birth Certificate in the Marshall Islands

In the Marshall Islands, the birth certificate is a certified copy of the birth registration record held by the Office of the Registrar. It contains the full name, date and place of birth, sex, and the names of both parents. It is the primary identity document for Marshall Islands citizens.

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 health worker
• 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
• Applicable fee

How to Get a Birth Certificate in Marshall Islands In Person

1. Visit the Office of the Registrar in Majuro or the local government office on your island.
2. Present your valid photo ID and complete the application form.
3. Pay the applicable fee at the cashier.
4. Collect the certified copy — processing is typically same-day or next-day.

I helped a contact in Majuro who needed a birth certificate for a US visa application. The Office of the Registrar processed the request the same day and the document was accepted without any issues.

How to Get a Marshall Islands Birth Certificate from Abroad

If you are outside Marshall Islands, you can contact the nearest Marshall Islands embassy or consulate. You can also authorise a trusted representative in Majuro to apply at the Office of the Registrar on your behalf.

How to Register a New Birth in Marshall Islands

New births in Marshall Islands must be registered at the Office of the Registrar within 30 days of birth. Late registration is possible with supporting documentation. Hospitals typically have registration officers available.

Getting a Marshall Islands Birth Certificate Apostilled

Marshall Islands is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Apostilles are issued through the Ministry of Health and Environment.

1. Obtain a certified copy from the Office of the Registrar.
2. Submit it to the Ministry of Health and Environment for apostille authentication.
3. Processing typically takes 5 to 10 working days.

Contact the Ministry of Health and Environment Marshall Islands official site for current procedures.

“I needed my Marshall Islands birth certificate apostilled for a US visa application. The Office of the Registrar in Majuro issued the copy the same day and the Ministry processed the apostille within a week.” — Joseph R., Marshall Islands national applying for a US visa

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my Marshall Islands birth certificate from abroad?

Yes. Contact the nearest Marshall Islands embassy or consulate, or authorise a local representative to apply at the Office of the Registrar in Majuro.

How long does it take to get a birth certificate in Marshall Islands?

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 Marshall Islands?

Late registration is possible through the Office of the Registrar with supporting documentation. Contact the office directly for guidance.

Is there a fee for getting a birth certificate in Marshall Islands?

Yes. The Office of the Registrar charges a fee for certified copies. Apostille fees are charged separately by the Ministry of Health and Environment.

Is a Marshall Islands birth certificate accepted internationally?

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

Conclusion

Getting a birth certificate in Marshall Islands is straightforward through the Office of the Registrar in Majuro. For international use, apply for an apostille from the Ministry of Health and Environment after obtaining the certified copy. Allow at least two weeks for the full process if you have a firm deadline.