Learning About Online Birth Registration for Newborns

This information provides steps about how to register your baby’s birth. It’s important to register your baby’s birth as soon as possible and get the birth certificate so you can apply for government services like Canada Child Benefits and Social Insurance Number.

Step 1: Register Your Baby’s Birth

• Register your baby as soon as possible after birth.
• Go to https://obrs.alberta.ca for the link.
• Ask your nurse to help before you leave the hospital.

Step 2: Get a Birth Certificate

You can order the birth certificate at the same time as you register the birth online or you can order the birth certificate in-person at a registry service later.

• Use the secure link to order your baby’s birth certificate online.
• Pay the $40 fee using debit or credit.
• If you want to order your baby’s birth certificate in-person, find a Registry Service office near you.
• It will arrive in the mail in about 4 weeks.

Healthcare Coverage for Your Baby

The birth centre will register your baby for a personal health care number at no cost to you, so your baby can receive Alberta Healthcare coverage.

For Parents with an active Refugee Claim

For parents with an active Refugee claim, the birth centre is not able to register your baby for a personal healthcare number for Alberta Healthcare Coverage. You must apply for it. Once you have registered your baby’s birth and have their birth certificate, you will take it to a registry service in-person to apply for health care coverage.

Step 3: Apply for Alberta Health Care Coverage for Your Baby

• Fill out this form Application for Health Care Insurance Plan coverage: Children of Non-Eligible Parents
• Print a copy of the form and take it to a registry office. Bring:
  • Your baby’s birth certificate
  • Proof you live in Alberta (like a driver’s license, utility bill or lease agreement)
  • Parent’s Refugee Claim Document
  • Your baby’s health care card will come in the mail in about 2 weeks

To see this information online and learn more, visit MyHealth.Alberta.ca/health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_online_birth_registration_inst.

For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Current as of: February 2, 2026

Author: Women’s Health, Alberta Health Services

This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.