Learn the complete process of how to get a birth certificate in Pakistan for yourself or your child. This detailed guide explains the NADRA registration process, online application, required documents, and verification steps for U.S.-based Pakistani citizens.
What is a Birth Certificate and Why is it Important?
A birth certificate is an official document that records the birth of a child and includes essential details like full name, date of birth, gender, and place of birth. It is issued by the Union Council in Pakistan and later computerized by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority).
For Pakistani citizens living abroad, especially in the U.S., having a valid NADRA birth certificate is often required for:
- Applying for a Pakistani passport or NICOP
- Immigration or visa processing
- School or college admissions
- Inheritance or legal matters in Pakistan
Types of Birth Certificates in Pakistan
- Manual Birth Certificate: Issued by Union Councils for local purposes.
- Computerized Birth Certificate: Digitally verified by NADRA and widely accepted internationally.
Where to Get a Birth Certificate in Pakistan?
You can apply through the following local government departments:
- Union Council (for general public and local issuance)
- Cantonment Board (for people residing in cantonment areas)
- Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA)
- Capital Development Authority (CDA), Islamabad
- NADRA Registration Center (for computerized versions)
Step-by-Step Process to Get a NADRA Birth Certificate
1. Visit the Relevant Office
- For U.S.-based applicants, it is often done through a relative or legal representative in Pakistan.
- Visit the Union Council, NADRA Registration Center, or local government office.
2. Required Documents
You must provide the following documents:
- Hospital-issued birth slip (or affidavit if born at home)
- CNICs/NICOPs of parents (both father and mother)
- Marriage certificate of parents
- Previous birth record (if applying for computerized version)
- Affidavit of birth (if no hospital certificate available)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or rent agreement)
3. Fill and Submit the Application Form
- Fill out the birth registration form at the concerned office.
- Attach all necessary documents and submit.
4. Data Entry and Biometric Verification
- A representative at the office will enter the birth data.
- In some cases, biometric verification may be required from parents.
5. Official Verification and Approval
- The documents will be verified by the issuing authority (e.g., Union Council Secretary).
- This may take 3 to 7 working days.
6. Receive the Birth Certificate
- Once approved, the birth certificate is issued in either manual or computerized format.
- For computerized NADRA birth certificates, revisit the office to collect the final document.
NADRA Birth Certificate for Overseas Pakistanis
If you are living in the U.S. and want to apply for your child’s birth certificate:
- Assign a Power of Attorney to a trusted person in Pakistan.
- Send notarized copies of required documents.
- They can apply on your behalf at the local Union Council or NADRA center.
Online NADRA Birth Certificate Application (Partial Process)
Although NADRA does not fully allow online application for new birth certificates, you can:
- Check application requirements online at NADRA’s official website
- Use NADRA’s Pak-Identity portal for document renewal or other services (not birth registration)
- Track the application through local district government portals (varies by province)
Estimated Fees and Processing Time
| Type | Fee (PKR) | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Birth Certificate | 200–500 | 3–5 working days |
| NADRA Computerized Certificate | 500–1500 | 5–10 working days |
Fees may vary depending on district and urgency.
Translation and Attestation for U.S. Use
If you need the birth certificate for legal or immigration purposes in the U.S., you may need:
- Certified English translation of the Urdu certificate
- Attestation from:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan (MOFA)
- Pakistani Embassy/Consulate in the U.S.
- U.S. Department of State (if required by U.S. authorities)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for a birth certificate from the U.S.?
No, the initial application must be made in Pakistan, either personally or through a legal representative.
Is the NADRA birth certificate valid internationally?
Yes, the computerized version issued by NADRA is widely accepted for immigration and official purposes.
Can I apply online for a NADRA birth certificate?
No, full online processing is not available. However, you can check requirements and updates online.
What if the birth was not registered within 60 days?
A late registration affidavit and additional verification will be required.
Can adults apply for a birth certificate?
Yes, adults who were never issued a certificate can apply by submitting relevant affidavits and family documents.
Is the birth certificate required for passport or NICOP?
Yes, it is mandatory for minors and often needed for adults if not previously documented.
What is the difference between Union Council and NADRA birth certificate?
Union Council issues the initial birth record. NADRA converts it into a computerized version.
Can I get a duplicate if I lost my certificate?
Yes, apply for a reprint at the same issuing authority with identification documents.
How long is the certificate valid?
It is valid for life but may need attestation for international use.
Do I need to be present to collect it?
No, a family member with a valid CNIC can collect it with proper authorization.
Official External Links
| How to Apply for a Pakistani CNIC Online | NADRA Application Process for Overseas Pakistanis – Complete Guide | How to Apply for a Pakistani CNIC Online | NADRA Application Process for Overseas Pakistanis – Complete Guide |
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