The Births and Deaths Registration Act stipulates that births should be registered within 30 days of the child’s birth. Late registrations, those reported after this period, involve additional requirements. They’re divided into three categories based on the child’s age at the time of registration.
31 Days up to One Year
For children aged between 31 days and one year, the late registration process involves specific documents and procedures:
- DHA 24/LRB (Notice of Birth): This form serves as an official notice of the birth.
- Proof of Birth: For children born in health facilities, it’s documented as DHA 24/PB; for home births, it’s recorded as DHA 24PBA (Proof of Birth Affidavit).
- DHA 288/A (Affidavit Giving Reasons for Late Registration of Birth): This document outlines the reasons for the late registration.
- Biometrics: Including palm, foot, or fingerprint impressions of the child.
- Fingerprints of Parents: To establish parental identity.
- ID/Passport of Parents: Confirming parental identification.
The application process involves visiting designated offices of the Department of Home Affairs. These offices are equipped to receive and process the late registration applications. Applicants need to submit the specified documents, complete the necessary forms, and provide biometric information as part of the registration process.
One Year up to Seven Years
Similarly, for children aged between one year and seven years at the time of late registration, the requirements remain largely the same:
- DHA 24/LRB: Notice of Birth.
- Proof of Birth (DHA 24/PB or DHA 24PBA): Depending on the birth setting.
- DHA 288/A: Affidavit outlining reasons for the late registration.
- DHA 288: Additional form needed for registration.
- Biometrics: Child’s biometric data.
- Parental Fingerprints and ID/Passport: Confirming parental identity.
Applicants must approach designated Department of Home Affairs offices to submit the necessary documentation and complete the registration process.
Seven Years and Above
For children aged seven years and above, the late registration process involves more stringent requirements:
- DHA 24/LRB: Notice of Birth.
- Proof of Birth (DHA 24/PB or DHA 24PBA): Depending on the birth setting.
- DHA 288/A: Affidavit providing reasons for late registration.
- DHA 288: Additional form needed for registration.
- Biometrics (ID-size photo and fingerprint): Specific biometric data of the person being registered.
- Fingerprints of Parents and their ID/Passport: Confirming parental identity.
Similar to the previous categories, designated Department of Home Affairs offices handle the submission of documents and facilitate the late registration process.
Importance of Late Registration
Legal Recognition and Rights:
Late registration ensures legal recognition of a child’s existence. Without proper registration, accessing basic rights and privileges, including healthcare, education, and inheritance, might be impeded.
Citizenship and Identity:
Timely registration ensures citizenship acknowledgment, facilitating the child’s official identification and enabling them to access various services and rights as a citizen.
Education and Social Services:
A registered child can enroll in school, access social services, and receive government support, safeguarding their well-being and development.
Conclusion
Late registration of birth is a crucial process that offers legal validation, identity documentation, and access to fundamental rights. It’s imperative to adhere to the registration requirements within the stipulated time frame, but the provision for late registration allows families to secure legal status for their child even beyond the initial 30 days. Understanding the requirements for each category—31 Days up to One Year, One Year up to Seven Years, and Seven Years and Above—helps parents or guardians navigate the process effectively.
Late registration ensures that every child, irrespective of the delay, gains recognition, rights, and opportunities essential for their future growth and well-being. Following the designated procedures and providing the necessary documentation empowers families to secure legal validation for their child’s birth, ensuring their inclusion in the societal fabric and access to essential services.