Which Authority Issues Birth Certificates in Bangladesh?
Which Authority Issues Birth Certificates in Bangladesh? A birth certificate is not just a piece of paper; it’s a gateway to your legal rights. Whether you’re applying for a passport, enrolling in school, claiming inheritance, or seeking government benefits, a birth certificate is a mandatory document in Bangladesh.
Let’s dive deep into understanding the authority responsible for issuing birth certificates in Bangladesh, and what you need to know to get yours legally and correctly.
Which Authority Issues Birth Certificates in Bangladesh?
The Office of the Registrar General, Birth and Death Registration (in Bengali: রেজিস্ট্রার জেনারেলের দপ্তর, জন্ম ও মৃত্যু নিবন্ধন) is the designated government authority that issues birth certificates in Bangladesh.
Government Oversight
This office operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives. It is responsible for the formulation of policies, implementation of systems, and maintenance of the national birth and death registration database.
The Office of the Registrar General, Birth and Death Registration, under the Ministry of Local Government, is responsible for issuing birth certificates in Bangladesh.
Local Government’s Role in Birth Certificate Registration
Although the Office of the Registrar General is the central authority, the actual registration process is conducted at the local level. This includes:
- Union Parishads in rural areas
- Municipalities (Pourashavas) in towns
- City Corporations in metropolitan cities
These local offices act as the registration points where citizens submit their applications for birth certificates.
Why Birth Registration is Important in Bangladesh
Birth registration is essential for a number of reasons:
- Legal Identity: Establishes proof of age, nationality, and citizenship
- Educational Access: Required for school admission
- Healthcare Services: Essential for access to public health programs
- Inheritance and Property Rights: Acts as proof of relation
- Passport and National ID Card: Mandatory for issuance
In a developing country like Bangladesh, having an accurate and timely birth certificate is crucial for accessing state resources and services.
How to Apply for a Birth Certificate in Bangladesh (2025 Update)
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a birth certificate in Bangladesh in 2025:
1. Determine the Jurisdiction
Visit your Union Parishad, Municipality, or City Corporation office, depending on your area of residence.
2. Collect the Application Form
You can either collect the form physically from the local office or download it from the official website of the Birth and Death Registration Office: https://bdris.gov.bd
3. Submit Required Documents
Typically, you need the following:
- Birth notification from the hospital or midwife
- National ID cards of parents
- Proof of residence (utility bill, rent receipt, etc.)
- Photograph of the child (if required)
4. Fill and Submit the Form
Please make sure all details are accurate, as any mistakes might delay the registration process.
5. Verification Process
The local office may conduct a background verification to confirm the accuracy of the information.
6. Issuance of Certificate
Once verified, the birth certificate will be issued either digitally or as a printed document. In urban areas, e-certificates are becoming common.
Online Birth Registration in Bangladesh
With the advancement of digital services, citizens can now apply for birth certificates online through the BDRIS Portal (Birth and Death Registration Information System).
- Visit the official website: https://bdris.gov.bd
- Click on “Apply for Birth Registration”
- Fill in the required personal details
- Upload necessary documents
- Submit the form and track your application
This online system is a major step towards digital governance in Bangladesh and simplifies the process for urban residents.
Correcting or Updating a Birth Certificate
If you notice errors in your birth certificate, you can submit an application for correction at the same local authority that issued the document. You will need to provide:
- Original birth certificate
- Supporting documents (school certificates, NID, etc.)
- Application form for correction
- Affidavit from a first-class magistrate (if needed)
Corrections typically take 7–15 working days, depending on the authority’s processing time.
Penalty for Late Birth Registration
As per the Birth and Death Registration Act of 2004, birth registration should be completed within 45 days of birth. Delays beyond this period may incur penalties or additional verification steps. However, late registration is still possible with proper documentation and justification.
Challenges in Birth Registration in Bangladesh
While the system is improving, challenges remain:
- Lack of awareness among rural populations
- Limited internet access in remote areas
- Corruption or inefficiency at local offices
- Language barriers for indigenous communities
Efforts are ongoing to improve these through digital literacy campaigns, mobile registration units, and simplified procedures.
Important Contact Information
| Authority | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| Office of the Registrar General, Birth and Death Registration | https://bdris.gov.bd |
| Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives | https://mlgrd.gov.bd |
| City Corporations (Dhaka, Chattogram, etc.) | Contact respective websites |
| Local Union Parishad/Municipality | Visit local office physically |
Conclusion
The Office of the Registrar General, Birth and Death Registration, operating under the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, is responsible. However, the registration is handled at the local government level through Union Parishads, Municipalities, and City Corporations.
