Birth never registered in India: getting a birth certificate or NABC from abroad

If your birth was never registered in India, there are two routes. Late registration gets you a proper birth certificate; for a birth more than a year ago it needs an order from the local magistrate after the details are checked. If that isn't possible, or will take too long, the registrar can issue a non-availability certificate (NABC), which most authorities accept together with affidavits and school records.

What to do

1. Confirm with the registrar of the town or village where you were born that there is no record for your date of birth.
2. Collect proof of birth: your school leaving or 10th board certificate, any hospital record, and your parents' ID.
3. Get affidavits from your parents or older relatives confirming your name, date and place of birth.
4. Apply for late registration with these documents. For a birth more than a year ago, the magistrate's order comes first, then the registrar issues the birth certificate.
5. If late registration isn't possible, apply for an NABC instead, and keep the affidavits and school records with it.
6. Get an English translation, and an apostille or embassy attestation, if the country you're applying to asks for it.

Common questions

Birth certificate or NABC: which is better? A birth certificate is stronger, so try late registration first if you have time. An NABC with affidavits is the usual alternative when it isn't possible.

How long does it take? It depends on the state and the office. An NABC often takes a few weeks; late registration with a magistrate's order usually takes longer. We check with the local office before you start.

Can it be done while I'm abroad? Yes, in most cases. Your parents or our team apply locally with your authority letter and documents.

Ask SafeNRI about this