How to Register a Minor Born Abroad in Spain

Registering a minor born abroad in Spain is a process that requires attention to certain legal and administrative aspects. This article will guide you through the necessary steps to carry out this procedure.

Prerequisites

Before starting the registration process, it is important that you meet the following requirements:

1. Minor's Documentation: You must have the minor's birth certificate, properly legalized or apostilled.
2. Parents' Documentation: Both parents must present their identification documents, whether Spanish or foreign.
3. Residency in Spain: At least one of the parents must be a resident in Spain.

Steps to Register a Minor in Spain

Below are the steps to follow to register a minor born abroad in Spain.

1. Obtain the Birth Certificate

The first step is to obtain the minor's birth certificate in the country where they were born. This document must be legalized or apostilled, depending on the country of origin.

2. Translate the Certificate

If the birth certificate is in a language different from Spanish, it will need to be translated by a sworn translator. The translation must also be legalized.

3. Request Registration at the Consulate

If you reside abroad, you must go to the corresponding Spanish Consulate, where you can request the birth registration. It is essential to present all the required documentation, including:

• Minor's birth certificate.
• Parents' identification documents.
• Proof of residency in Spain.

4. Registration in the Spanish Civil Registry

Once the minor has been registered at the Consulate, the next step is to enroll them in the Spanish Civil Registry. To do this, you must go to the Civil Registry corresponding to your locality in Spain and present the following documentation:

• Application for birth registration.
• Birth certificate issued by the Consulate.
• Identification documents of both parents.
• Proof of residency in Spain.

5. Obtain the DNI and Passport

After completing the civil registration, it is advisable to request the DNI (National Identity Document) and the Spanish passport for the minor, to facilitate future identification and travel.

Deadlines and Considerations

It is important to note that the deadline for registering the birth is 30 days from the date of birth. If this is not done within this period, administrative complications may arise.

Additionally, if the minor will reside in Spain permanently, it is advisable for the parents to initiate the process of obtaining Spanish nationality if the relevant requirements are met.

Conclusion

Registering a minor born abroad in Spain is an essential procedure that requires following certain administrative steps and presenting the appropriate documentation. Make sure to meet all the established requirements and deadlines to avoid inconveniences.

Written by:
Ariana Pérez
Visa and Residency Lawyer
Publication Date: January 24, 2026

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