Apply for a Birth Certificate in Tanzania: The RITA plays a key role in managing life event documentation in Tanzania. One of its most important functions is issuing birth certificates, a vital record needed for various legal, educational, and social purposes.
This article will help you understand how to apply for a birth certificate through RITA, whether the application is done on time, late, or for a lost certificate.
Apply for a Birth Certificate in Tanzania
Steps for RITA Online Birth Certificate Application
1: Registration of Birth Within 90 Days
For births occurring at hospitals, health centers, or dispensaries, the first step is to obtain a Notification of Birth from the facility.
If the birth occurs at home, it must be reported to the Village Executive Officer or the District Registrar of Births and Deaths to get the birth notification. This should be done within 90 days of the birth. Once the notification is received, it must be submitted to the District Registrar, and the current fee for processing the birth certificate is Tshs. 3500.
2: Late Registration of Birth (Over 90 Days but Below 10 Years)
For late registrations, the steps include:
- Filling and submitting Registration Form B3, which should be completed by the parents or guardians.
- Attaching a passport-size photograph of the child.
- Providing supporting documents such as the clinic card, baptismal certificate (if applicable), and a letter from government authorities to verify the birth details.
- Paying the fee of Tshs. 4000.
3: Late Registration of Birth (Above 10 Years)
For applicants over 10 years old:
- Fill and submit Registration Form B3, again completed by the parents or guardians.
- Attach a passport-size photograph.
- Submit supporting documents, such as the clinic card, baptismal certificate, and school leaving certificates, alongside proof of birth from relevant authorities.
- The fee is Tshs. 20,000 at the RITA headquarters and Tshs. 10,000 at district offices.
4: Replacement of a Lost Birth Certificate
If you lose your birth certificate:
- Submit a request indicating the entry number, name, date of registration, and place of birth.
- Pay the replacement fee, which is Tshs. 3500 (includes Tshs. 1500 search fee and Tshs. 2000 certificate fee).
5: Correction of Information on a Birth Certificate
If there is an error on your birth certificate:
- Submit a request for correction, including supporting documents.
- Surrender the incorrect certificate.
- The correction fee is Tshs. 6500, which includes the correction fee, search fee, and certificate issuance.
Did You Know?
RITA handles not only births and deaths but also the registration of marriages, divorces, trustees, and company liquidation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What if my birth was never registered?
If your birth was never registered, you can still apply for a birth certificate through late registration. Depending on your age, the process will involve filling out a form, providing supporting documents, and paying the necessary fee.
Q2: Can I apply for a birth certificate online?
Yes, RITA offers an online application process for birth certificates. Visit the RITA website to begin your application.
Q3: How long does it take to get a birth certificate?
The processing time varies depending on your application type (on-time or late registration) and the location of the registration office. Generally, it takes a few weeks, but delays can happen.
Q4: What if I don’t have all the required documents?
If you don’t have some of the necessary documents (like a clinic card or baptismal certificate), you will need to provide alternative supporting documentation, such as a letter from local government officials like the Ward Executive Officer or Village Executive Officer.
Q5: Can I get a birth certificate if I was born at home?
Yes, you can. For home births, report the birth to the Village Executive Officer or District Registrar of Births and Deaths to obtain a birth notification. Then, follow the standard process for registration.
Conclusion
Obtaining a birth certificate is crucial for a wide variety of official and legal procedures. Whether you’re registering a newborn or applying for a certificate years after birth, RITA provides a streamlined process to ensure that Tanzanians can access this essential document.
By following the outlined steps for either on-time registration, late registration, or replacement, individuals can secure their birth certificates with relative ease.
The history of birth registration in Tanzania, dating back to 1917, showcases how far the system has evolved to make it accessible for all citizens. With the development of the RITA online system, the process is now even more efficient, allowing applicants to begin their requests from the comfort of their homes.
Visit the official RITA website to remain up-to-date or your nearest District Registrar office to begin your application.