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CertiDocsThe practical guide

Proving kinship or partnership

The starting point remains the official record. If that record is missing or cannot be obtained, the administration may examine other evidence, but only within a coherent and readable file. A sworn translation comes in when the documents cannot be used directly by the authority.

Understand the process
Last updated Editorial lead : Hiliyeh Bashir3 sources

Which document is expected first?

For a parent, child, spouse or partner, the administration first looks for the corresponding civil-status record. Only where there is a justified absence, impossibility or serious difficulty does it move to other forms of evidence.

What weight do other proofs carry?

Other proofs are not an automatic shortcut. They mainly serve when the official record cannot be obtained. The administration then assesses the coherence of the file as a whole and may request additional material.

Where does the sworn translation fit in?

A sworn translation does not strengthen the evidential value of a document, but it makes the record usable. If the document or its relevant entries are not understandable to the authority, translation becomes unavoidable.

Documents to prepare

  • Birth, marriage or partnership record depending on the relationship invoked
  • Complete, readable and preferably recent copies
  • Apostille or legalisation if the record comes from abroad
  • Sworn translation of records the authority cannot read directly
  • Additional evidence if the official record is missing

Steps to follow

  1. Identify the exact relationship

    Determine which main record is expected depending on whether the case concerns parentage, marriage or partnership.

  2. Obtain the best copy

    Prefer a complete, recent and clearly readable copy of the record.

  3. Authenticate and translate where needed

    Handle any apostille or legalisation first, then the sworn translation needed for the procedure.

  4. Add useful supporting material

    If the official record is missing, add a clear explanation and the other available elements.

Good to know

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Frequently asked questions

+Is a simple photocopy enough?
In practice, it is better to start from an official, complete and readable copy. A simple photocopy often triggers a request for more documents.
+What if names are not spelled the same way?
You should flag the discrepancy and attach any document that helps connect the different spellings.
+Does a sworn translation replace the official record?
No. The translation makes the record readable, but it does not replace the underlying official record when the administration expects it.
+Can I add other evidence alongside the official record?
Yes, especially if it helps make the file coherent. It is useful, but it does not change the starting hierarchy of evidence.
+Can the administration request extra checks?
Yes. If the file remains incomplete or ambiguous, it may ask for additional material and other verifications.

Official source

Official sources used

The references below are the public sources used to document this page. The competent authority always retains the final decision.

Official sourceIBZ - Proof of family relationship or partnershipOfficial sourceImmigration Office - Family reunification with a Belgian sponsorOfficial sourceImmigration Office - Protection internationale

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