Using Scottish Registration Documents Abroad - document authentication

I was born in Scotland and require my birth certificate to be authenticated.  How do I go about this?

An authentication can be provided by National Records Scotland (NRS), General Registration Unit.

If you require an authenticated birth certificate, please email NRS, General Registration Unit ([email protected]) with the following information.  The team will help and advise you of current fees.

•    Full name
•    Date of birth
•    Date of marriage if applicable
•    Contact telephone number
•    Reason for authentication

Please note that an authentication is not acceptable to every foreign government.  Some foreign governments will require an Apostille, where your certificate is officially stamped by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.  If you require an Apostille please contact the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.

I am taking up residence in another country and I require documentation to confirm my marital or civil partnership status.  How do I go about this?

NRS Marriage and Civil Partnership team can provide a ‘To Whom It May Concern’ letter.

If you require such a letter, please email NRS Marriage and Civil Partnership team with the following information:-

•    Your full name and postal address
•    Your date and place of birth
•    Your mother’s maiden name
•    If you were born outside Scotland, the date you became resident in Scotland or your age if under 16
•    If you have been previously married, name of previous spouse and date of divorce
•    If you have been previously in a civil partnership, name of previous partner and date of dissolution
•    If you have been widowed, spouse name and date of death
•    If you are a surviving civil partner, partner name and date of death 
•    If you have never been married or in a civil partnership a statement to that effect

Our Marriage and Civil Partnership team will respond to your request with details of the fees payable and methods for payment.

I want to register my foreign marriage in Scotland.  How do I do this?

Only marriages that occur in Scotland can be registered in Scotland.  However individuals with a Scottish connection who marry outside Scotland can apply for their marriage to be recorded in the Book of Scottish Connections.