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Birth Certificate

The official record of a birth, registered under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.

Last verified 9 September 2026

A Birth Certificate is issued by the local municipal corporation, municipality or Gram Panchayat under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969. It is one of the most foundational identity documents in India, required for school admission, passport applications, and many other government services.

What Is It?

A Birth Certificate is issued by the local municipal corporation, municipality or Gram Panchayat under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969. It is one of the most foundational identity documents in India, required for school admission, passport applications, and many other government services.

Who Needs It?

Parents registering a newborn’s birth, and individuals who need a certified copy of their birth record for school admission, passport, or other identity verification.

Eligibility

  • Births should be registered within 21 days with the local registrar (hospital, municipal body or Gram Panchayat) as required by law
  • Delayed registration is also possible in most jurisdictions, typically with additional documentation or an affidavit

Documents Required

  • Hospital-issued birth report or discharge summary, where the birth occurred in a hospital
  • Parents’ identity and address proof
  • Proof of marriage of parents, where applicable
  • For delayed registration, an affidavit and/or supporting documents as required by the local registrar

How to Apply

  1. 1.Hospitals typically initiate registration directly with the local municipal body at the time of birth
  2. 2.For births outside a hospital, parents or guardians must report the birth to the local registrar (municipal corporation or Gram Panchayat) within the prescribed period
  3. 3.Many states also offer online registration and certificate download through their Civil Registration System (CRS) portal
  4. 4.For delayed registration beyond the standard window, an application with supporting affidavit may be required, as per local rules

Where to Apply

The local municipal corporation, municipality, or Gram Panchayat where the birth occurred, or your state’s Civil Registration System (CRS) portal

Fees and processing time are set by each state and are not listed here \u2014 check the official source below for current details.

Official Source

Civil Registration System, Office of the Registrar General of India

Visit Official Source

Important Notes

This service is administered by state or local authorities, so exact steps, fees and timelines can vary by location. Always confirm current details on the official source above, and never pay any unofficial agent to access a government service.

FAQs

What is the deadline for registering a birth?

The Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 requires registration within 21 days of the birth. Registration after this period is still possible but may need additional documentation.

Can I get a Birth Certificate online?

Many states allow you to check registration status and download the certificate through their Civil Registration System (CRS) portal, though the exact process varies by state and municipality.

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