recognize child

What do you need to know

• There are 3 moments when you can acknowledge a child: before the birth, when registering the birth or after registering the birth
• If you recognize a child, you automatically receive parental authority over the child (together with the mother). If only the mother wants parental authority over the child, the mother must come along to the recognition. You can find more information about this at the National Government parental authority
• Since January 1, 2024, you can also choose to give your child the surname of both parents. 

before birth

• You already acknowledge the child during the pregnancy. This is called recognition of the unborn fruit. From birth you are the legal father or duo mother
• When recognizing the 1st child, the birth mother must be present in person to give permission. When recognizing a subsequent child, the mother may give written consent
• For the first child of you and your partner, you can choose that the child receives the surname of the father or co-mother. You do this during recognition. You can also choose a double surname. Both partners sign the deed of recognition of the unborn child
• If you do not choose a surname, the child will automatically be given the mother's surname. The next children in this relationship will automatically have the same last name. Learn more about choosing a surname for your child can be found at the National Government

When registering a birth

• If recognition is required when registering the birth of the first child, the birth mother must be personally present to give permission. It is therefore more convenient if you arrange the recognition of the 1st child before the birth. You can also choose a double surname. When recognizing a subsequent child, the mother may give written permission
• If you do not choose a surname, the child will automatically be given the mother's surname. The next children in this relationship will automatically have the same last name. Learn more about choosing a surname for your child can be found at the National Government

After registering a birth

• Anyone who does not have a legal father can be recognized
• If the child is under 12 years old, the mother must give consent
• If the child is 12 years or older, the mother and child must give consent
• If the child is 16 years or older, only the child must give consent

What do you have to do

Pack

• Valid ID
• If the mother does not come to the appointment, you will need written permission with the mother's signature. Also bring a copy of the mother's identity card
• If the child is 12 to 16 years old, you need written permission from the child and the mother.
• If the child is 16 years or older, you need personal permission from the child. The mother then no longer has to give permission

What does it cost

Recognition of a child is free.

also look at

• Birth declaration
• Declaration of stillborn child
• Choose your child's last name
• Child recognition
• Parenting for duo mother
• Birth checklist