After acquiring a birth certificate, it may seem that the tedious work is done, however, that is only the beginning. The birth certificate serves as a basic legal document. It is your child’s identity on official documents and allows access to numerous other legal processes.
Permit us to guide you through the critical steps after receiving the birth certificate.
Apply for a National Identity Document
For Infants and Children
In most countries, children need to be registered with the national identity system. For example:
- In Pakistan, this would be the B-Form (Child Registration Certificate) issued by NADRA.
- In India, parents can apply for an Aadhaar card for the child.
Why This Matters
- Serves as official government ID
- Needed for school admissions, medical insurance, and legal documentation
- Required to get a passport or visa later on
Update Family Records
After receiving a birth certificate, update:
- NADRA Family Tree (Pakistan)
- Municipal or census records
- Healthcare systems (especially if the child was born at home or abroad)
This ensures that the child is legally part of the family unit.
Apply for a Passport (If Needed)
If international travel is in the cards, a passport will be the next legal document you’ll need.
Documents Required Usually Include:
- Original birth certificate
- Parents’ CNIC/ID cards
- Proof of address
- Photos and biometric data (depending on age)
Tip: Some countries require both parents to be present during the application.
Secure a Health Card or Insurance
Many countries now require newborns to be registered in the healthcare system or added to their parents’ insurance policy.
Why It’s Crucial
- For routine vaccinations and hospital visits
- To claim benefits or medical reimbursements
- In case of emergencies
Register the Child in the Local Municipality Database
This may already be done during the birth certificate process, but if not, it’s essential.
Benefits:
- Helps with census tracking
- Enables school zone placement
- Connect your child to local services like libraries, child care, etc.
6. Enroll for Government Benefits (If Available)
Many countries offer government subsidies or support for newborns and young families.
Examples:
- Child support or monthly allowances
- Vaccination programs
- Free or subsidized schooling
- Ration card updates
To avail these benefits, the birth certificate must be linked to your family’s national record.
School Admission Planning
Even if your child is just a newborn, schools and daycares later require official age proof.
Make sure you:
- Keep multiple photocopies of the birth certificate
- Get it digitally certified, if available
- Translate it (with notarization) if you’re applying abroad
Legal Guardianship Declaration (Optional)
In some family situations—like single parents, adoptions, or guardian arrangements—you might need to file additional legal paperwork declaring who the legal guardian is.
This can involve:
- Court affidavits
- Adoption documentation
- Legal custody papers
Correcting Errors in the Birth Certificate
If you spot a mistake (like a spelling error in the name or date), correct it immediately.
How to Do It
- Submit a correction application to the municipal authority or NADRA
- Provide supporting documents (hospital records, CNICs, school forms)
- Pay correction fee
- Wait for revised certificate
Pro tip: The earlier you fix it, the fewer problems you’ll have later.
Digital Backup and Storage
Make scanned copies of the birth certificate and all related documents.
Store them:
- On a cloud drive (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox)
- On a secure USB or external hard drive
- As email attachments to yourself for emergency access
You never know when you’ll need them—especially in emergencies.
Final Thought
Obtaining a birth certificate & Marriage Certificate in Pakistan is just the first step. It’s essential to consider national ID registration, health insurance, schooling, and establishing a legal identity, among other prioritizations.
Addressing these issues early on ensures the child is legally safeguarded, socially registered, and prepared for upcoming milestones in life.
There are no reasons to procrastinate—ensure these legal formalities are meticulously handled so a solid groundwork is established for effortless progress in the future.
FAQs
Is a birth certificate enough for school admission?
Not always. Most schools also require national ID (like B-Form or Aadhaar) and parents’ identity proof.
How long does it take to get a B-Form after a birth certificate in Pakistan?
It typically takes 7–15 working days through NADRA, depending on location.
Can I apply for a passport without a B-Form?
No. The B-Form is essential for children under 18 in Pakistan.
What should I do if the birth certificate has a spelling error?
Visit your local municipal office or NADRA and file a correction request with valid proof.
Is a digital copy of the birth certificate legally valid?
Yes, if it’s issued by an official government portal and includes digital verification like a QR code or e-signature.
