Why This Document Is the First and Most Important Legal Identity of a Person
Every person needs a legal identity from the time they are born, and the very first step toward this is official registration of birth with government authorities. This document acts as foundational proof of identity, nationality,birth certificate in Pakistan, and parentage. Without this, one cannot apply for a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC), passport, or even get admitted to most educational institutions in Pakistan or abroad.
The Process of Recording a Child’s Birth Through Local Authorities
In Pakistan, the birth of a child must be registered at theUnion Council of the area where the child was born or where the parents reside. After collecting the required documents and submitting them to the local office, the birth is recorded and a registration number is issued. This number is later used to generate a computer-based version of the document through the national database system.
List of Documents Required by the Local Office for Birth Registration
The documentation requirements may slightly vary depending on the locality, but generally, the following are needed to register a child’s birth:
Essential Documents for Newborn Registration:
- CNICs of both parents
- Hospital-issued birth slip or certificate (if available)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or rent agreement)
- Marriage certificate of the parents
- Application form (available from the Union Council or online portals)
- Two recent passport-size photographs of the child (for NADRA processing)
In case of a delayed registration (after several months or years), an affidavit and permission from a magistrate may also be required.
Getting the Digitally Generated Certificate Through the National System
After registration at the Union Council, parents can request adigitally printed version of the birth record. This document is issued through NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) and is bilingual—written in both English and Urdu. It is widely accepted by all public and private organizations, both within and outside Pakistan.
Benefits of a Digitally Generated Certificate:
- Recognized by embassies and consulates
- Required for CNIC and passport applications
- Accepted in school and university admissions
- Essential for visa and immigration processes
How to Apply for This Document Through Online and In-Person Channels
Some cities in Pakistan offeronline marriage registration services, especially through e-Khidmat Markaz or district government websites. However, for most cases, physical presence is required at the Union Council or designated NADRA office.
Methods to Apply:
- Union Council Office – For first-time registration and handwritten record
- NADRA Registration Center – For computerized printout
- Online Portals (limited areas) – To submit and track application
- Authorized Agents – For attestation and embassy use
Importance of Having This Legal Record for Life Events and Travel
This document plays a significant role throughout a person’s life. From education to employment and even marriage registration, it is often requested as an essential document.
Common Uses:
- School and college admissions
- National ID card and passport application
- Immigration and family visa processing
- Issuance of inheritance or domicile certificates
- Correction of age in official records
Without this document, a person may be considered legally “non-existent” in official records, especially at the national level.
Consequences of Not Registering a Birth on Time in Pakistan
Failure to register a birth on time can cause serious issues. These include delays in acquiring a CNIC, inability to travel, or even being denied admission into schools. In legal matters such as inheritance or court disputes, unregistered individuals may have difficulty proving their identity or age.
In such cases, the applicant must go through adelayed registration process, which involves additional legal documents, affidavits, and verification from a magistrate or notary public.
What Overseas Pakistanis Should Know About Obtaining This Document
Pakistani nationals living abroad often require this document forchild registration in foreign countries, immigration sponsorships, or passport applications. The computerized version issued by NADRA is accepted internationally, especially when it is attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and, in some cases, by the embassy of the country in which the document will be used.
Overseas Applicants Can Apply Through:
- Family members in Pakistan
- Power of Attorney
- Pakistani consulates abroad
- Online NADRA services (where available)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I get this document if my child was born at home?
A: Yes. You will need an affidavit from parents, CNICs, and possibly a witness or statement from a midwife or elder.
Q2: How long does it take to get the digitally printed version?
A: Typically 3–7 working days after submission of documents, depending on the city and office.
Q3: Is this record needed for applying to foreign universities?
A: Yes. Most international institutions require this document as proof of age and identity.
Q4: Can I change incorrect information on the document?
A: Yes, but you will need supporting documents such as school records, CNIC, or hospital documents, and approval from the issuing authority.
Q5: Is the computerized version accepted abroad?
A: Yes. Especially after attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant embassy.
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