Question 1

What is a record rectification?

Accepted Answer

It is the correction of errors in a civil registry record, maintaining the truthfulness and accuracy of records.

Question 2

What types of errors can be rectified?

Accepted Answer

Spelling errors, incorrect dates, parentage errors, omissions and other material or substantive errors can be rectified.

Question 3

Who can request rectification?

Accepted Answer

Rectification can be requested by the interested party, by ascendants, descendants or by the Public Prosecutor.

Question 4

Do I need to go to Portugal to rectify?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. The request can be made by power of attorney or through legal representative.

Question 5

What if the error comes from a foreign document?

Accepted Answer

If the error originates from a foreign document, it may be necessary to rectify first in the country of origin.

Question 6

Does rectification alter the original certificate?

Accepted Answer

Rectification is annotated to the original record. New certificates issued will reflect the correction.

Question 7

How long does rectification take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline varies depending on case complexity. Obvious material errors are generally faster.

Question 8

Are there costs associated with rectification?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are fees payable to the Registry Office. Values depend on the type of rectification.

Rectifications

When it makes sense