A birth certificate is a vital document that signifies one’s identity. It shows the accurate age and citizenship of its holder. Losing or damaging this crucial document can cause significant inconvenience. But thankfully, it can be replaced in either of these conditions.

However, the process to apply for it in these cases can be different in different locations. This guide will help you regain your birth proof.

Step-by-Step Process to Replace a Birth Certificate

Let’s explore the process to get the replacement birth proof.

Step 1: Identify the issuing authority.

The very first step is to discover the authority or agency that can issue it in your location. In the case of India, it can be Sarpanch or paramedical staff in villages and Municipal Corporations in cities. This list contains links to all municipal corporations in India. You may explore the link with the municipal corporation of your area. These entities hold the record of every birth, if registered previously.

Step 2: Gather the required information.

Before applying, you need to be aware of all the details to be filled out on the application form, which is called Non-Availability of a Birth Certificate (NABC Form 10). So, get ready with these details:

1. Full name of the applicant
2. Date and place of birth
3. The exact names of both parents mentioned on the lost birth certificate, including the mother’s name,
4. The relationship of the applicant to the person whose certificate is being requested (if not your own)
5. Reason for requesting the certificate

Step 3. Prepare the necessary documents.

Now, you need to present these documents in their original form to prove the exact date and place of birth.

1. Affidavit from parents or relatives stating the date and place of birth of the applicant and their relationship
2. School leaving certificate (in a few cases)
3. FIR (of the birth certificate being lost)
4. Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID Card, Passport, Ration Card With Photo, Driving License, Any Govt. Recognized Document
5. Ration card or voter ID as proof of residence
6. Proof of birth from the hospital (if available) or damaged proof

Step 4: Obtain and complete the application form.

Visit the website of the local municipal corporation and download Form 10. It will require you to get registered with it and then login with the credentials. Or, you may visit the office of the nearby concerned office. Fill out the form by providing accurate details related to the concerned individual.

Step 5: Affidavit Preparation

Now arrange an affidavit to enclose the non-availability of the Birth Certificate form. It is a sworn certificate that a notary officer or magistrate drafts on a stamp paper worth INR 20. The affidavit should state details like the person and the reasons for why the unavailability of the birth certificate is required. It is a declaration from parents or guardians. It should have a passport-size colored photograph of the applicant (size 5 cm x 4.5 cm, or 2” x 1.75 cm).

Step 6: Submission of the Application

Submit the duly filled-out application form along with all supporting documents and an affidavit to the registrar. You need to physically submit it to its office. The registrar will issue an order to check the availability of this document in the government records. It can be a week- or month-long procedure.

Step 7. Processing Fee

The procedure will be lengthy as the verification and search are challenging. So, the processing will be charged according to the state government’s rules.

Step 8: Verification Process

Once it is confirmed that it is not available, the concerned authority will verify the enclosed documents and fill in the details in the form. Then, it will issue the non-availability of a birth certificate.

Step 9: Processing Time

Certainly, the processing time of this application is uncertain. You can get a replacement birth certificate from the office within the said timeframe.

Step 10. Issuance of NABC

Finally, you can collect the replacement birth proof from the office where you have submitted the application form.

Points to consider

• There may be some differences in state-wise procedures. So, you need to check with the local authority for specific information or requirements.
• There is no standard fee structure in India. You have to confirm it from the municipal corporation office or website, as it varies. However, the fee is minimal.
• If you find it challenging to obtain the replacement birth proof, seek legal assistance from an experienced lawyer or solicitor for a hassle-free procedure.

Conclusion

Replacing a damaged or lost birth certificate is easy by following the aforementioned process. The steps define the whole process, from registering with the municipal corporation website to submitting and obtaining it from the office. The fee structure may vary from state to state. So, it can be confirmed by asking the competent officer in the municipal corporation office.