How Much Does it Cost to Digitize a Birth Certificate?
How Much Does it Cost to Digitize a Birth Certificate? In Bangladesh, birth registration is a vital step for every citizen. Whether you’re applying for a passport, enrolling a child in school, or availing of government benefits, having a digitized birth certificate is essential. Birth certificate digitization is now quicker, easier, and less expensive thanks to the government’s continuous push for digital transformation.
What Is Birth Certificate Digitization?
Digitization of a birth certificate means converting a paper-based registration into an electronic or digital version that is stored in the Bangladesh Birth and Death Registration Information System (BDRIS). This digital record ensures authenticity, improves accessibility, and reduces the risk of fraud or document loss.
Who Needs to Digitize Their Birth Certificate?
If your birth registration was done manually before the online system was introduced, or if you lost your original copy, you need to digitize your birth certificate. This process is especially important for:
- School-going children
- Individuals applying for a passport, NID, or visa
- Citizens applying for government grants or subsidies
- Any Bangladeshi resident seeking official identification
Cost of Digitizing a Birth Certificate in Bangladesh
The cost of birth certificate registration in Bangladesh varies based on the age of the applicant. Below is a clear breakdown of the birth registration fee:
| Age of Applicant | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| 0 to 45 Days Old | Free of Cost |
| 46 Days to 5 Years | 25 Taka |
| Above 5 Years (Late Registration) | 50 Taka |
Note: These fees may vary slightly depending on the Union Parishad, Municipality, or City Corporation.
Important Deadlines for Birth Registration
It is crucial to register a child’s birth within 45 days of birth to avoid paying fees. Delayed registration leads to higher charges and may require additional documents.
- Within 45 Days: No charge (free service)
- After 45 Days up to 5 Years: Nominal fee of 25 Taka
- After 5 Years: Late registration fee of 50 Taka, with supporting documents like school certificate, immunization card, or affidavit
equired Documents for Digitization
To digitize your birth certificate, you will need the following documents:
- Old paper-based birth certificate (if available)
- National ID card (NID) of parents
- Child’s immunization card or school certificate
- Passport-size photo of the applicant
- Address verification document (utility bill, holding tax receipt, etc.)
Make sure to take photocopies and keep the originals during submission.
How to Digitize Your Birth Certificate: Step-by-Step Process
Here is a simple guide to help you digitize your birth record:
Step 1: Visit the BDRIS Portal
Go to the official Birth and Death Registration Information System
Step 2: Search for Existing Record
Use your name, date of birth, and place of birth to check if your birth record already exists.
Step 3: Submit Application
If the record exists, apply for a digital birth certificate print copy. If it doesn’t, proceed with new birth registration.
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
Upload scanned copies or submit physical documents at your local registrar’s office.
Step 5: Pay the Fee
Pay the appropriate birth registration fee (if applicable) through the digital payment option or at the local office.
Step 6: Collect the Digitized Certificate
We will issue your digitized birth certificate after verification, typically within 7 working days.
Time Required for Birth Certificate Digitization
The total time required to digitize a birth certificate typically ranges from 3 to 7 working days. However, delays may occur during peak times or if documentation is incomplete.
Where to Apply for Birth Certificate Digitization?
You can apply through any of the following authorities:
- Union Parishad Office
- Municipality Office (Pouroshava)
- City Corporation Ward Office
- Online via BDRIS website
Each authority follows standard guidelines provided by the Local Government Division (LGD) under the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives.
Things to Remember
- Do not delay birth registration to avoid extra charges.
- Always double-check spellings in names and dates during application.
- For changes or corrections, supporting documents such as school certificates, immunization records, or affidavits are required.
- Any fraudulent attempts may lead to legal action.
Conclusion
Digitizing your birth certificate is not just a bureaucratic formality, it’s your gateway to establishing your identity in the digital age of Bangladesh. From getting a passport to applying for government benefits, a digital birth certificate is a foundational document.
