Apply for Birth Certificate Online: A Simplified Guide for 2026

A birth certificate is the most fundamental identity document for any individual. It is mandatory for school admissions, obtaining a passport, and claiming inheritance rights. With the Civil Registration System (CRS) becoming fully integrated, you no longer need to visit government offices multiple times.

If you are looking for a birth certificate apply online method, here is the updated procedure for 2026.

1. The 21-Day Golden Rule

Before you apply, remember the legal timeline. According to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, a birth must be registered within 21 days of the event.

• Within 21 Days: The process is free and simple.
• After 21 Days (up to 30 days): A late fee is charged.
• After 30 Days (up to 1 year): You require a written permission and an affidavit.
• After 1 Year: You will need a Magistrate’s order, which can be time-consuming.

2. Documents Required for Online Application

Keep the following digital copies ready before you start the application:

• Proof of Birth: Discharge slip or letter from the hospital where the child was born.
• Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card of both parents.
• Address Proof: Voter ID, Electricity bill, or Ration card.
• Marriage Certificate: Of the parents (optional in some states but recommended).
• Affidavit: Only required in case of a delayed registration (after 30 days).

3. How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)

Most states in India now use the central CRS portal or their specific state e-district portals.

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the official CRS portal (crsorgi.gov.in) or your state’s municipal corporation website (e.g., MCD for Delhi, MCGM for Mumbai).
2. Sign Up: Create a “Public User” account using your mobile number and email ID.
3. Fill the Form: Select the “Birth Registration” option. Provide details such as the date of birth, gender, name of the child (if decided), and parents’ details.
4. Place of Birth: Carefully select the hospital name or home address where the birth occurred.
5. Upload Documents: Scan and upload the hospital discharge slip and parents’ ID proofs.
6. Payment: Pay the nominal registration fee (if applicable) through UPI or Net Banking.
7. Submission: After submitting, you will receive an application reference number to track the status.

4. Downloading the Digital Birth Certificate

Once the Registrar verifies the details, the certificate is generated digitally.

• Verification: You will receive an SMS notification once approved.
• QR Code: Modern birth certificates in 2026 come with a QR code for instant verification by authorities.
• Download: You can log in back to the portal or use the DigiLocker app to download and save your digitally signed certificate.

Quick Summary Table

Conclusion

The birth certificate apply online process has eliminated middlemen and long queues. By registering the birth on time, you ensure your child’s future documentation remains hassle-free. Always double-check the spelling of names before final submission, as corrections later can be a complex legal process.

Are you facing any issues with the hospital not providing the discharge slip on time? Share your queries in the comments below!