Welcoming a newborn is one of life’s happiest moments. But alongside the joy, there are also practical matters that require timely attention. For many new dads, one of the most important roles after delivery is not only to support the mother and baby but also to handle hospital communication and ensure the baby’s documents are processed smoothly.
This guide walks you through what dads need to discuss with the hospital and the key documents to prepare after the baby’s arrival.
1. Communication with the Hospital
- Confirm Birth Certificate Information
- Baby’s full name (in both English and Chinese if needed).
- Parents’ personal details (passport, ID, marital status).
- Date, time, and place of birth.
- Some states require both parents’ signatures on the application.
- Birth Certificate Application Process
- Hospitals typically provide an application form, which the dad needs to fill out and submit to the County Office.
- The official birth certificate may take a few days to several weeks to be issued.
- Social Security Number (SSN) Application
- Hospitals often allow parents to apply directly for the baby’s SSN right after birth.
- The Social Security card will be mailed to the family home in a few weeks.
- If not filed at the hospital, dads can visit a local Social Security Office to complete the process.
- Insurance and Medical Bills
- Clarify hospital bills for the baby’s stay, vaccinations, or special care.
- Discuss adding the baby to the family’s health insurance (private or government).
2. Important Documents to Prepare for the Baby
- Birth Certificate
- The baby’s very first and most important legal document.
- Required for passport, SSN, travel documents, and more.
- It’s recommended to order multiple certified copies.
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- The baby’s lifelong identification number in the U.S.
- Necessary for taxes, insurance, school enrollment, and government services.
- U.S. Passport
- Essential if the baby will travel outside the U.S.
- Both parents must appear in person with the baby at a passport office (such as a post office or passport agency).
- Chinese Travel Document (for Chinese Parents)
- If both parents are Chinese citizens, the baby will need a Chinese Travel Document to enter China.
- Applications are made at the Chinese Consulate in the U.S., usually requiring both parents and the baby to appear in person.
- Apostille Certification
- If you plan to use the baby’s birth certificate in another country (e.g., China), you will need to obtain an Apostille from the Secretary of State’s office.
3. A Handy Checklist for Dads
- ✅ Double-check all name spellings and details before submitting hospital forms.
- ✅ Order multiple certified copies of the birth certificate and apostille.
- ✅ Schedule appointments early for passport or travel document applications.
- ✅ Align the document timeline with the baby’s discharge date and planned travel.
After the baby is born, dads often become the family’s “main coordinator” with the hospital and government offices. From confirming birth records to applying for passports and travel documents, every step ensures the baby’s legal identity and smooth journey home.
With clear communication and careful planning, you’ll not only support your partner but also give your baby a secure start in life.