Manama: The Expatriate Legal Cell Bahrain Chapter has issued a strong reminder to expatriate parents about the critical importance of registering their children’s births within the legally mandated 15-day period. Failure to do so forces parents to seek court approval, resulting in lengthy delays and significant financial burdens.
Under Bahrain law, newborns must be registered within 15 days of birth. Missing this deadline means parents must apply to a special committee under the Information and Government Authority, and if this window passes, the only option is a court petition, which involves additional legal fees and paperwork.
Sudhir Thirunilath, Global PRO and President of the Bahrain Chapter of Pravasi Legal Cell, highlighted that many expatriates mistakenly believe birth registration can be delayed or handled later through embassies. However, late registration triggers court cases costing around 400 Bahraini dinars (approximately Rs. 92,000) and causes lengthy processing times.
The Legal Cell noted that many delayed cases arise from financial hardship during childbirth, especially among lower-income families or those facing job losses. The birth certificate fees range from 0.5 dinars (Rs. 116) for births registered within seven days to 0.9 dinars (Rs. 209) after that. Additionally, hospital charges for delivery at Salmaniya Medical Complex range from 125 to 150 dinars.
Delays in birth registration can lead to severe consequences such as difficulties in obtaining passports, accessing education and healthcare, and future travel restrictions for the child. The Legal Cell urges parents to complete registration promptly to avoid unnecessary legal complications and ensure their children’s rights and services are protected.
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