There are many reasons to use a Scottish Registration document abroad. For example, you can use them to:
- get married abroad
- take up residence abroad
Some foreign authorities may ask for the authentication of a Scottish registration document. This is when we apply an officially signed and authenticated stamp or seal to a document. It confirms that a record is valid and authentic.
Requesting authentication of a birth certificate
If you need an authenticated birth certificate, contact us.
You’ll need to provide:
- the full name as recorded on the birth certificate
- the date of birth as recorded on the birth certificate
- the date of parent’s marriage or civil partnership (if applicable)
- a contact telephone number, in case we need to reach you about your request
- a reason for authentication
Some foreign governments will not accept an authentication. Some foreign governments require an Apostille. This is where your certificate is officially stamped by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.
If you need an Apostille, contact the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.
Requesting authentication of a marriage or civil partnership
Our Combined Registration Service team can provide a ‘To Whom It May Concern’ letter.
If you need a letter, contact our Combined Registration Service team.
You’ll need to provide us with:
- your full name and postal address
- your date and place of birth
- your mother’s maiden name
- the date you became resident in Scotland, if you were born outside of Scotland
We need different information from you depending on your circumstances.
If you were previously married or in a civil partnership
You’ll need the:
- name of your previous spouse or partner
- date of divorce or dissolution
If you are widowed
You'll need:
- the name of your spouse
- their date of death
If you are a surviving civil partner
You’ll need:
- your partner’s name
- their date of death
If you were never married or in a civil partnership
Send us a statement telling us you have never been married or in a civil partnership.
After you submit your request
We’ll respond to your request with:
- details of the fees payable
- methods for payment
