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Baby recognition: not compulsory
A different process for declaring a birth
Young parents have three days (after the day of delivery) to declare the birth of their baby in the town hall of the place of birth. This process is mandatory and results in a “birth certificate”, essential administrative document for the child, the coverage of his care by health insurance, his registration in crèche, obtaining an identity card or passport, etc. Recognition of a child is not compulsory. It is a voluntary process that can take place at any time : before birth (as soon as the pregnancy declaration is made), at the time of the birth declaration or after the birth of a child. It can be initiated by the mother, the father or both parents (joint recognition).
Anticipated recognition: what is it for?
In the event of health concerns, separation, death …
In the case of a couple of unmarried or civil union parents, parentage is automatically established for the mother at the time of the birth certificate which stipulates the identity of the mother. On the other hand, for the father, if he wants a paternity bond with the child is established, it is necessary to carry out a recognition process. He doesn’t have to inform the mother nor to have his authorization. And the earlier (during pregnancy) the better! Concretely, in case of concern of the mother (health for example at the time of childbirth), the father will be the legal guardian of the child. Another example: if the couple separates before birth, the father will have to assume his responsibilities towards the recognized child. Moreover, if the father were to die during the pregnancy, his child could still bear his name and the parentage link would be established. Finally, from a practical point of view, theearly recognition allows the father not to go to town hall when declaring the birth, which can be an advantage if he is absent during this period, for example.
To know : child recognition does not apply to couples homosexuals. On the other hand, the spouse of a parent of the same sex may, if they wish, initiate adoption procedure.
How to recognize a child before birth?
Go to the town hall or to the notary
- You have to go to any town hall at civil status service (the easiest way is to go to the town hall of your town).
- You will need to present an ID. The declaration gives rise to an act of recognition drawn up on the spot by the registrar and signed by one or both parents concerned. This recognition can also be established before a notary.
- You must then present a copy of this act of recognition when declaring the birth. If the recognition takes place after the birth, the registrar will enter it on the birth certificate as well as in the family record book.