You can apply for a birth certificate at any Vital Statistics Office or Government Agent office. Get a copy of the application form at these locations or download the form here.

Complete and mail the form with the fee to Vital Statistics, and pay by cheque, money order or credit card.

A birth certificate may be ordered by the following:

• The person who is the subject of the certificate.
• A parent of a child under 19 years of age, or if the child is incapable.
• A custodial guardian if the parent is incapable
• A person with written authorization from one of the above.
• An officer of any provincial government or the government in Canada who requires the certificate for discharge of official duties.
• Any other person who satisfies the Chief Executive Officer of the good faith of the person's cause for requiring the certificate.

Certificates and Samples

Small Certificate [47K]

The small certificate contains the individual's name, gender, birth date, birth place, registration number, and registration date. The size is 9.5 cm x 6.4 cm

Large Certificate [206K]

The large certificate contains the individual's name, gender, birth date, birth place, registration number, and registration date, as well as the parents' full names and province, state or country of birth. The size is 21.6 cm x 17.8 cm

Genealogy Certificate [168K]

The genealogy certificate contains all of the above information, plus time of birth and birth weight. These certificates are not intended for use as official identification.

Commemorative certificates - These certificates are available in five styles with the child's name, date and place of birth, birth weight and relevant information. These certificates are not intended for use as official identification. Click here to find out more about Commemorative Birth Certificates.

You can celebrate your child's birth with a unique commemorative birth certificate. These large, decorative certificates are available not only for newborns but for anyone born and registered in British Columbia. If you are the person named in the certificate, or the parent in custody of the child, you can apply for a commemorative certificate.