My applications
Here you can find many of the various administrative benefits for families in North Rhine-Westphalia at a glance. You can view the most important information on each benefit and find out how to apply for the benefit. If the benefit can be applied for online, you will also find access to the digital application here. This service is constantly being expanded.
Adopting a child in Germany
Would you like to adopt a child? Adoption agencies in Germany are either state-run or independent. Independent adoption agencies must be recognized by the state. Your adoption agency will advise and guide you through all the necessary steps. You can find the key information here.
Adoption of an adult
If you would like to adopt a person of legal age, you and the adult can apply to the competent family court.
Adoption of a foreign child - converting a weak adoption into a strong adoption
If you have adopted a child abroad and it is a weak adoption, you can have it converted into an adoption under German law. Your adopted child will then have all the rights and obligations of a child adopted under German law.
Apply for a Widow's or Widower's Pension
If your spouse or partner dies, you may be eligible for a survivor’s pension (widow’s or widower’s pension). This pension can help alleviate financial hardship.
Civil partnership certificate
Do you need another civil partnership certificate? You can obtain this from the registry office where the registered partnership was established.
Marriage certificate
The marriage certificate proves the marriage of two people. You can obtain your marriage certificate from the registry office in whose area the marriage took place. The registry office issues it from the marriage register.
Marriage – Registration
Are you planning to get married? If so, you and your partner must register your marriage in person at the registry office. The registry office will verify that the legal requirements for your marriage have been met.