Recognizing paternity, notarization

A man can say that he is the father of a child. The mother must agree. This can be recorded at the registry office, youth welfare office or notary's office. A man can be the father if no other man is the father of the child. Recognition and the mother's consent are publicly notarized.

A man can be the father of a child even before it is born.

Under German law, the woman who gave birth to the child is the mother. Recognition by the mother is not necessary. If recognition from the mother or consent from a legal representative is required, this must also be recorded at the registry office, youth welfare office or notary's office.

If the law of the mother's or father's home country requires recognition by the mother, this can also be recorded publicly. The same rules apply as for recognition of the father.

Documents

Valid identity documents: Identity card or passport, mother's passport

Recognition of the father and consent are free of charge. Perhaps 30 euros for the insurance of an interpreter.

Notes

At the Youth Welfare Office, the certification can only be made with an appointment. Please allow a waiting time of 12 to 16 weeks.

Guardianship

Guardianship is an offer from the Youth Welfare Office. It costs nothing.

A guardianship can help. It can establish paternity. It can claim child maintenance.

One parent can apply for guardianship. The parent has sole custody. In the case of joint custody, the parent with whom the child lives can apply for guardianship. An expectant mother can apply for guardianship. A representative can apply for guardianship if the mother is not legally competent. The child has not yet been born.

Processing time

The Youth Welfare Office immediately becomes the child's guardian. This happens when the application is received. The guardianship ends when the applicant requests this in writing. It also ends when the child reaches the age of majority.