How to Correct Errors in Birth or Marriage Registrations

If your birth, marriage, or civil partnership certificate contains an error, you can apply for a correction through the local register office where the event was originally registered. Simple factual errors (e.g. misspelled names, incorrect dates) can usually be corrected with supporting evidence.

For more significant changes — such as adding a father's details to a birth certificate after initial registration, or correcting a fundamental error — you may need to apply for re-registration through the General Register Office (GRO).

If you are unhappy with the register office's handling of your request, complain using their formal complaints process. Escalate to the GRO and, if necessary, the Parliamentary Ombudsman.