Cost
The official source does not state a separate fee for the declaration; related documents may have fees
Marriage and family
Marriage and familyEditorially reviewed 02/09/2026
Acknowledging paternity
Make a declaration acknowledging paternity before an authorised body and secure the required consent.
Usual time
Depends on required consent and registration
Responsible institution
Matični ured
How to apply
This procedure has one application method.
In person or by another permitted method
Submit the application to the competent institution following its current instructions.
Required documents
Selected: 0 of 3
In person or by another permitted method
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Steps
In person or by another permitted method
- 1
Check whether paternity has already been established by legal presumption
Acknowledgement is used where paternity was not established otherwise.
- 2
Make the declaration before an authorised body
The declaration can be made before a registrar, the Croatian Institute for Social Work or a court.
- 3
Secure necessary consent
The acknowledgement’s validity may depend on consent of the mother, child or other persons.
- 4
Check entry in the birth register
After a valid acknowledgement, check that the details were recorded.
Prices and deadlines
| Procedure | Price | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
Procedure cost The final amount depends on the applicable tariff and circumstances of the individual application. | The official source does not state a separate fee for the declaration; related documents may have fees | Depends on required consent and registration |
Important notes
- Without a valid acknowledgement, paternity is established in court proceedings.
- Minors and persons with limited legal capacity make declarations under special rules.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the father’s declaration always takes effect immediately on its own.
- Not checking required consent.
Institutions
Official sources
Information was editorially reviewed on 02/09/2026. Before applying, check the latest information on official websites.
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