Recognition is a legal act whereby children born outside marriage may be recognised by their mother or father, or by both, either separately or jointly, even where the parent is already married to another person. The declaration of recognition is irrevocable and may alternatively be formalised in the child’s birth certificate, in a declaration made before the civil status officer, by means of a public deed, in a will (in which case it takes effect only upon the death of the testator), or in an application submitted to the Guardianship Judge. Once recognition has been effected, it may no longer be revoked, including by means of a will.
Principal legislation: Law No. 219 of 10 December 2012.