How to obtain a replacement for a lost birth certificate in the UAE

Have you ever been stressed out when searching for your birth certificate immediately before a crucial legal process? Many residents, particularly those born prior to the digital revolution, may find themselves in this scenario.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention provides a straightforward procedure for both residents and expats to obtain a replacement for a missing birth certificate in the UAE. This is accessible through both the ministry's website and a mobile application.

In 2023, the authority announced the implementation of a digital service that allows all inhabitants to request for a new birth certificate online without trouble, with documents issued within one working day.

From qualifications to fees, here's how citizens can obtain a replacement birth certificate.

Requirements

To request for a replacement for the lost certificate, applicants must ensure that the following conditions are satisfied:

The father or mother, or an officially delegated person, must be present when requesting for a replacement.
All documents to be presented must be original. This includes the passports of the mother, father, or the person in question.
If the applicant resides outside of the country, a power of attorney from a representative, as well as a copy of the original documents, is required to get the certificate.
If the applicant has no relatives in the UAE, the certificate can be delivered to the officials of the relevant consulate. The applicant must include a letter authorising that individual to receive the replacement certificate on their behalf, as well as an embassy stamp.
To be issued a new certificate, applicants must also submit a review of the status of the previous certificate.

Documents required

To submit an application, you must include the following documents:

A copy of the birth certificate, if one exists.
Copies and originals of both the father's and mother's passports, as well as the passport of the individual in question.
If a UAE national has lost their original birth certificate, they must submit a copy as well as the original of the family book. If the mother is not a citizen, a valid passport and residency permit are also necessary.

Process

The application can be submitted online or at a public health center.
The fee can be paid with the application or at the centers.
The birth certificate will be issued after the authority has reviewed the documents and their original copies.
After the certificate is issued, the father or the applicant's representative must collect it from the public health center. Applicants can also obtain an electronic copy via email.