Official recording of miscarriages

 General information

In principle, miscarriages do not need to be notified. Since 1 April 2017, however, it has been possible to register the data regarding a miscarriage as other civil status data of the mother at the request of the mother (or of the father or the other parent). The basis is a medical confirmation that includes the date and, if ascertainable, the sex of the miscarriage. 

With the mother’s consent, the first name and family name of the man or woman or other parent requesting registration as the father or parent may also be registered. If requested, the registry office will issue a corresponding document.

Deadlines

There are no deadlines.

Competent authority

The registry office from which the registration is first requested:

Documents required

For the registration of the miscarriage, the following must be submitted:

  • Official photo ID card
  • Medical confirmation showing the date and, as far as can be ascertained, the gender of the miscarriage.

Naming

The mother/father may notify the name of the miscarried child to the authority responsible for civil status. This will be entered in the certificate.

Costs

  • Notification: free of charge
  • Certification: free of charge
  • Document: free of charge
  • After two years: EUR 9.30 

Advice

There are no fees for the first issue, provided that these documents are issued within two years of the miscarriage of the child. There are generally costs for sending the certificate. Please enquire at the competent registry office.

Further links

Legal basis

Translated by the European Commission
Last update: 25 June 2024

Responsible for the content: Federal Ministry of the Interior