Are you searching for your original birth certificate from the Philippines? Whether you're a Filipino citizen living abroad, planning to marry, or need it for other important reasons, acquiring your birth certificate can sometimes be daunting. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get your original birth certificate swiftly and securely.
Before diving into the process, it's crucial to know that Philippine birth certificates are issued by the Civil Registry where the birth was registered. Most certificates are issued by the City or Municipal Civil Registry offices. So, let's get started on your journey to acquire your original birth certificate.
Gathering Required Document(s)
Before visiting the civil registry office, ensure you have the following documents to expedite the process:
- A valid government-issued ID (e.g., Philippines Passport, UMID card)
- In case you're not the person named on the certificate, bring a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) if you're representing another person
- For married individuals, bring your Marriage Certificate
Identifying the Correct Civil Registry Office
To find the correct civil registry office, you can use the following steps:
- Identify the city or municipality where you were born
- Visit the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) website (psa.gov.ph)
- Find the Civil Registry Office listing for your birthplace
Understanding the Certificate Types
Before requesting your birth certificate, it's essential to know that there are two types of certificates:
- Certified True Copy (CTC): This is the regular birth certificate used for most purposes
- NSO Birth Certificate: This is required for migratory purposes and is usually requested by Filipino migrants or those applying for dual citizenship
Acquiring the Birth Certificate
Now that you're at the civil registry office, follow these steps to obtain your original birth certificate:
Filling Out the Application Form
Obtain the application form, fill it out with your complete and accurate personal information, and submit it with the required documents.
Payment and Collection
Proceed to the cashier to pay the corresponding fee. As of 2022, the fee for a CTC birth certificate is PHP 315, while an NSO birth certificate costs PHP 365. After payment, you will be given a claim stub with a specific date for certificate collection.
After submitting your documents and payment, ensure you take note of the claimed date for collecting your original birth certificate.computer