NS Ancestors Certificate FAQs

  1. If I order three certificates, do all three people need to be members to qualify for member rate? ​
    No, the person who orders and provides payment is the one who must be a member to receive the member rate. 
     
  2. I do not have primary proof for all the ancestors in my lineage. Does that mean I cannot get a certificate?
    Mandatory civil registration was not introduced until 1864 and gaps in the registration occurred. Many different types of proof can be used together, for example:
    ● Baptismal or christening records 
    ● Land records
    ● Other official records 
    ● Census
    ● Bible entries
    ● Published genealogies, etc. 
    For proof of birth, it is best to have more than one piece of evidence if there is no official birth certificate. Do the best you can and if there are issues, we will be in contact.
     
  3. If I cannot provide enough proof with my application and it is rejected, does that mean I need to re-apply and pay again?
    No, once you apply your application remains with us until there is a final outcome. You will be advised of what is required to get approval. However, if the proof cannot be provided, your application will not be approved. 
     
  4. Nova Scotia Archives is the repository for historical vital statistical records. Do I have to purchase an electronic or print copy to accompany my application? 
    No, if you require a birth, marriage, or death record from Nova Scotia Historical Vital Statistics (archives.novascotia.ca/vital-statistics/), you can download the image of the document free of charge.  You can then attach it to your electronic submission or print it and include it with your mailed in application.
     
  5. I am not sure how to start!
    The application gives instructions on how to proceed. Start with yourself (or the person you are obtaining the certificate for) and move backward to the ancestor you want on the certificate.The main thing to keep in mind is: "How is each ancestor connected and what is the proof?"
     
  6. I cannot find land records for proof of residence in Nova Scotia. Help! 
    If your ancestor was a New England Planter or a Loyalist, it might be easy to find proof. Land records are not required as the only proof of residence. Early residents of Halifax, for example, may have not owned property. Many other documents that you provide show evidence of residence, especially as one moves into the period of civil registration. Review the documents you have for indication of residence.