A birth certificate is one of the most basic requirements for many different transactions – from applying for a job or even for traveling outside the country. Of course, the copy of your birth certificate should be certified by the National Statistics Office (NSO).
So how do you obtain a copy of your NSO birth certificate? Well, there are actually three ways to do that namely – walk-in application, online application, and telephone request.
For this post, we’ll focus on walk-in applications. Read on and we’ll give you pointers on how to do it right.
Requirements for Walk-In Application
If you are in a rush to get a copy and have the time to make a personal visit at your local Census Serbilis Center, then this should be ideal for you.
Just be reminded that you will need to bring the following:
- Valid ID
- Pen (for filing up the forms)
- Authorization letter and valid ID (if you are requesting a copy for someone else)
Process for Walk-In Application
To begin with, all you need to do is to bring the requirements and then obtain a copy of the application form and queue number. Make sure that you fill the form up with accurate details. It is absolutely important that all dates and spellings are correct so as to avoid any hassle.
READ ALSO: How To File For Late Registration of Birth Certificate In The Philippines
Afterwards, go straight to the screener’s desk to have your information checked. Proceed to the cashier/collecting officer to pay the required processing fee and get the official receipt.
Usually, the process takes about 2 hours before you can get your NSO birth certificate but processing time may vary depending on the outlet you visit. In some cases, you may be asked to come back at another day to get your document.
Who Can Request a Birth Certificate
Be reminded that the clause of Article 7 of the Child and Youth Welfare Code tells us that “the records of a person’s birth shall be kept strictly confidential and no information relating thereto shall be issued expect on the request of any of the following:”
- The person himself, or any person authorized by him;
- His spouse, his parent or parents, his direct descendants, or the guardian or institution legally incharge of him, if he is a minor;
- The court or proper public official whenever absolutely necessary in administrative, judicial or other official proceedings to determine the identity of the child’s parents or other circumstances surrounding his birth;
- In the case of the person’s death, the nearest kin.
“Any person violating the prohibition shall suffer the penalty of imprisonment of at least two months or a fine in an amount not exceeding five hundred pesos, or both, in the discretion of the court.”