Desperately seeking advice - Chinese birth certificate

[WendyWoo 0]

Hi guys,

A little off topic, but really needing any advice possible. I was born in China, but immigrated to Australia at the age of 5, and have been an Australian citizen for many years. I have never seen my birth certificate, nor did I need it until now.

I am getting married in France (fiance is French) and in order to get married there the French government requires a birth certificate. However, I have no idea of how I can obtain one?

Has anyone been in this situation, or know of someone who can help? Desperately seeking advice!

Thanks!

[zkt101 38]

You can go to other european countries to get married, which doesn't require birth certificates.

[WendyWoo 0]

The problem is that we want the marriage recognised in France. Even if we do a civil ceremony in Australia, we are still wanting to have it registered in France as we will be moving back at some stage. The requirements in France are very strict!

[Sukie 1,463]

The problem is that we want the marriage recognised in France. Even if we do a civil ceremony in Australia, we are still wanting to have it registered in France as we will be moving back at some stage. The requirements in France are very strict!

Wendy, I would contact your Australian state's Department of Births, Deaths and Marriages and see if they might be able to help you. I know there were a lot of people who came to Australia at young ages, escaping harder times in other countries. Perhaps there is a way to "legitimize" your birth through your own state government.

Good luck!

Sukie in NY

[MADDEN 40]

Maybe this link can help http://shenyang.usembassy-china.org.cn/civil_records_china.html

[Pitaya 2,577]

You may need to obtain a Notarial Birth Certificate. Please check the pinned thread located at the top of the regional forum page for more information about this document: http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/393969-chinese-marriage-visa-terms-and-definitions/ It is this type of document that is accepted by the US consulate in Guangzhou, for birth certificates, and divorce certificates, and USCIS in the USA. This is due to the reliance in the PRC on the use of the hukou book, or family book. This system has its origins in ancient China. This situation is changing to a national registry system, but as with many things in China, it doesn't happen overnight.

You may have to find your ancestral home town, a long-lost relative to assist you with this endeavor. There may also be commercial firms that can assist you in this process. When you get the Notarial Certificate, have several copies prepared for possible future use.

Good luck.

Edited July 4, 2016 by Pitaya