FAQ

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Notice of Birth

Who may give notice of birth?
The parents of the child are bound by law to give notice in person of the birth of a child.  When the parents are married to each other, notice of birth may be given either by the father or the mother of the child.

Is there the need to present a certificate of marriage?
If the marriage of the parents is registered with the Public Registry in Malta, the certificate is not required.  In all other cases the certificate of marriageneeds to be presented when giving notice of birth.  An official translation into Maltese or English is required.

Is a mother who is not married to the father of the child bound to give notice of birth in person?
Yes.  Although the law states that notice of birth is to be given within five days, reasonable time is allowed for the mother to be able to present herself for notification.  In those cases where the name of the father may be entered on the Act of Birth, he is required to present himself together with the mother when she is giving notice of birth.

Is the child to be given more than one name?
One name is enough, however, when giving notice of birth the parents may choose to add other names. The name or names are to be written clearly on the “Notice of Birth” form issued by the hospital authorities.

Notice of Death

Who may give notice of death?
Preferably, notice of death is given by a relative of the deceased. If no relatives are left, it may be given by a person who is able to give the particulars concerning the deceased.

Are any documents needed when giving notice of death?
The person giving notice of death is asked to present an identity document, i.e.  ID Card, passport or driving licence.

When available, the Maltese ID Card of the deceased is to be returned at the Birth/Death Notification Section, The Public Registry, Valletta.  Original documents, such as a certificate of birth or marriage of the deceased, are required only when the need arises.

Is notice of death to be given within a specified time after the death?
It is up to the relatives or any other person to give notice of death as early as possible in order that a certificate of death is issued without delay.

How is notice of death given when a person dies whilst visiting the Maltese Islands?
Any relative of the deceased may give notice of death before leaving the islands at the Birth/Death Notification Section, the Public Registry, Valletta. If this is not possible, a special form is filled in for death registration purposes and sent to the above address.