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How to register a birth and get a birth certificate

Register a birth within 21 days for free with the local Registrar and get the birth certificate.

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Official source · Civil Registration System – FAQ — dc.crsorgi.gov.in
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Time needed
Report within 21 days
Cost
Free within 21 days

Step by step

  1. Report the birth within 21 days

    For a hospital birth, the medical officer in charge reports it. For a home birth, the head of the household reports it; ASHA, ANM or Anganwadi workers can also notify.

  2. Go to the right Registrar

    The birth is registered at the place where it happened, with the local Registrar (municipal body in cities, panchayat or designated official in villages).

  3. Get the certificate

    The Registrar registers the birth and issues the certificate. One copy is free to the informant; certificates can be issued electronically.

  4. Add the child's name later if needed

    A certificate can be issued without the name. The name can be added free within 12 months, and later with a fee up to 15 years.

Common questions

What if I missed the 21-day window?

Between 21 and 30 days, it is registered with a late fee. From 30 days to 1 year, it needs written permission of the District Registrar, a fee and a self-attested document. After 1 year, it needs an order from a District, Sub-Divisional or Executive Magistrate.

What are the late fees?

The Model Rules 2024 suggest ₹20 (21–30 days), ₹50 (30 days–1 year) and ₹100 (over 1 year). Your state's rules may differ.

Can errors be corrected?

Yes, under Section 15 of the Act and your state's rules.

Can I appeal the Registrar's decision?

Yes, to the District Registrar within 30 days; the appeal is to be decided within 90 days.

Official source

Key points

  • Register within 21 days of birth — no fee is charged.
  • For anyone born on or after 1 October 2023, the birth certificate is the single proof of date and place of birth for school, licence, voter list, passport, Aadhaar and more.
  • Late registration needs permission: District Registrar up to 1 year, a Magistrate's order after 1 year.
  • The child's name can be added later — free within 12 months.

Sources

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