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.
In Pakistan, the birth of a child must be registered at the Union 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.
The documentation requirements may slightly vary depending on the locality, but generally, the following are needed to register a child’s birth:
In case of a delayed registration (after several months or years), an affidavit and permission from a magistrate may also be required.
After registration at the Union Council, parents can request a digitally 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.
Some cities in Pakistan offer online 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.
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.
Without this document, a person may be considered legally “non-existent” in official records, especially at the national level.
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 a delayed registration process, which involves additional legal documents, affidavits, and verification from a magistrate or notary public.
Pakistani nationals living abroad often require this document for child 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.
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.