In order to keep the family registers accurate and up-to-date, the Swiss authorities need to be informed about any changes in the civil status (birth, marriage, death and divorce) of Swiss citizens and dual nationals. When such changes occur, the persons concerned, or their nearest relatives, should send the responsible Swiss representation a complete and certified copy of the appropriate document/s (birth, death, marriage or divorce certificates). Please note that certificates must be certified by the issuing authority no longer than 6 months before they are sent for registration.

Important: The documents will not be returned

Failure to provide accurate documentation may impede future administrative procedures with the Swiss authorities and even hinder the issuance of new identity documents, i.e. passports, etc.

 
In order to register the birth of a child who has one Swiss parent, the following documents are required:

• Copy of an Act of Birth

If the Swiss mother or father is unmarried but the child is acknowledged by the Swiss parent, the following additional documents must be presented: 

• Certificate of Birth of the foreign father or mother
• Photocopy of the passport of the foreign father or mother
• Confirmation concering civil status of the foreign father or mother
  -->If single: Confirmation established by the Vital Statistics or Affidavit by a public notary
  -->If divorced: Certified copy of Certificate of divorce, established by the competent Court
  -->If widow/widower: Certificate of death

Processing time: up to 6 weeks
Fee: No fee

Remark
Please note that the registration of the birth of a child must be confirmed by the Swiss authorities prior to apply for a Swiss passport or identity card.

 
In order to register the death of a Swiss citizen or of the spouse of a Swiss citizen the following document is required:

Death certificate (original document, photocopies will not be accepted)

Processing time: about 6 weeks
Fee: No fee