In Germany, there are clear rules regarding who is the legal mother of a child. The woman who gives birth to a child is always its legal mother.

However, this rule does not apply in all countries. In some countries, a legal relationship between the child and the woman who gave birth to the child is established only when she submits a declaration acknowledging the child.

In the following cases, you must acknowledge maternity for your child, even if you live in Germany:

• You are not married to the father, are not a German citizen, and your home country’s law requires a declaration of maternity, and
• the law of the country where your child has his or her habitual residence requires a declaration of maternity.

You can have the acknowledgment of paternity recorded at the following offices:

• Civil Registry Office
• Youth Welfare Office
• Notary