The only documents that are accepted as proof of the details of an individual’s birth are a birth certificate or a copy of the act of birth. This proof is needed to apply for a passport, to obtain a health insurance card or your first driver’s licence, to register a child for elementary or secondary school, or to apply for benefits from the Québec Pension Plan or for pension benefits from the Government of Canada.

Clarification: For births recorded in the Québec register of civil status.

Important: The long-form birth certificate is recommended as it is necessary for certain government purposes.