How Can I Correct My Jamaican Birth Certificate to Sell Property?

Mrs. Wall, this is a common issue we see among older Jamaicans, especially those who migrated years ago. For land or property transactions here, the Jamaican legal system requires all names on the documents — especially the land title — to match the person’s official birth record. If your father’s Jamaican birth certificate shows a different spelling than what’s on his passport or other ID, that will hold up the sale.

The solution is for your father to apply for a Correction of Error on his Jamaican birth certificate through the Registrar General's Department (RGD) in Jamaica. The process involves:

- Submitting a formal correction application through the RGD

- Providing supporting documents that show the correct spelling (passport, UK ID, etc.)

- Including a statutory declaration (sworn statement) from someone familiar with his birth details, usually a relative or longtime acquaintance

Since your father is in the UK, he can start the process through the official RGD website. He may also contact the Jamaican High Commission in London for assistance. Alternatively, he can authorize a trusted representative or lawyer here in Jamaica to handle the process on his behalf.

Once the correction is complete, he’ll receive an updated Jamaican birth certificate reflecting the correct spelling of his name. That document can then be used to proceed with the sale of the property without further delays.

All the best!

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📅 Last updated: June 20, 2025

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