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Rodný list

Birth certificate.

What does “Rodný list” mean in Slovakia?

Rodný list (birth certificate) is a basic document that confirms a person's birth and their parents' details. In Slovakia, it is issued by the matrika (civil registry office) at the place of birth.

Why you need it

To apply for a residence permit and family reunification.
To enroll a child in school or kindergarten, and to receive child benefits.
To get married, for inheritance, and other family matters.

A Ukrainian rodný list (birth certificate) usually needs to be officially (sworn) translated into Slovak to be used in Slovakia. Sometimes, an Apostille is also required. Keep the original document safe and give copies to institutions when possible. If the document is lost, the authority that registered the birth will issue a duplicate. Please note that Slovak institutions often require a translation made by a sworn translator registered in Slovakia. Translations from Ukraine are not always accepted. Therefore, ask in advance about the required format of the document.

Important. The Ukrainian original almost always needs a sworn translation into Slovak, and some institutions also ask for an Apostila. Keep the original in a safe place and carry copies with you — many offices accept certified copies instead of the original.

Examples of use

Bring the child's birth certificate.

The birth certificate needs to be officially translated.

The birth certificate is issued by the registry office.

Birth certificate is issued by the matrika (registry office).

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to translate my birth certificate?

Yes, almost always. For Slovak institutions, you need an official (sworn) translation of your Ukrainian document into Slovak. Sometimes they also ask for an Apostila — check the requirements of the specific office.

What to do if the certificate is lost?

A duplicate is issued by the authority that registered the birth. In Ukraine, this can be done through the Civil Registry Office (RATsS) or the Diia portal, including while abroad through consular services.

Do they accept a copy instead of the original?

Often, many institutions accept an officially certified copy. But for some procedures, they might ask for the original — it's best to ask in advance what exactly is needed.