If an adoption took place abroad, the family court may, upon request, determine whether it is to be recognized in Germany. It may also order that the adoption be converted into an adoption with the full legal effects provided for under German law.

You can apply for maintenance advance if you are a single parent and the parent who is liable to pay maintenance does not pay any, irregular or too little maintenance for the child.

Participants in advanced vocational training programs—such as those leading to certification as a master craftsman, technician, business specialist, or early childhood educator—can apply for the Advancement BAföG (also known as the Master Craftsman BAföG).

Individual financial support is provided for your school education if the funds required for living expenses and education are not otherwise available.

For children, adolescents, and young adults, benefits for education and participation may be applied for by recipients of basic income support for job seekers, social assistance, benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act, the child supplement, or housing assistance.

You can request a birth certificate from the civil registry office that maintains the birth registry (usually at the place of birth).

The birth of a child must be reported to the registry office with jurisdiction over the place of birth. 

The guardianship authorities in the district offices and independent cities are involved in proceedings in which the local court has to decide on the appointment of a guardian as a legal representative.