Know all the important documents that your child requires

It is of utmost importance for parents to ensure that a baby’s identity documents are in place. There are some basic documents that one should obtain by the time the baby completes her first birthday.

These are mandatory documents required at the time of school admission, opening of a bank account, investments in the name of the child or taking the child overseas on a holiday.

Birth certificate
This is a mandatory document that must be obtained within 21 days of the child’s birth. It records the name, gender, parents’ name, address, date of birth and place of birth of the child.

Application must be made in the prescribed format with the municipal corporation or panchayat of the place of birth. Birth records and certificate issued by hospital must be attached with fees.

Aadhaar card
Aadhaar is an essential document for school admission. There is a simplified procedure without biometrics for children below five years. The child’s Aadhaar card is linked to the parent’s Aadhaar card.

Photograph of the child is captured along with biometric verification of the parents. Original birth certificate will have to be carried at the time of registration.

Passport
This is a very important document that acts as proof of citizenship, identity and address. Application can be filled online at www.passportindia.gov.in. Online appointments can be taken and documents prescribed on the website can be carried at the time of appointment.

Family health policy
It is a good idea to include the new child in the family floater health policy. Insurance companies typically prescribe an age after which the child can be included in the policy. Copy of birth certificate along with prescribed form and additional premium can be submitted to the insurance company.

Points to note
1. It is advisable to apply for more than one original birth certificate by paying additional charges.
2. Once the child turns 15, biometrics need to be captured for Aadhaar records.