MONK REGISTRATION DIVISION

01. Registration of a Novice Monk (Sāmaṇera) Declaration

1. The application form (Registration J 1) must be completed in two original copies.

2. The signature and official seal of the Mahanayaka Thera (Chief Prelate) or an authorized Thera must be correctly placed in the signature box.

3. If more than five years have elapsed since the ordination, a letter from the Mahanayaka Thera stating the relevant reasons for the delay must be submitted along with the application.

4. Registration can be performed only after the duly completed application form is approved by the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, Deputy Commissioner, or Assistant Commissioner.

02. Registration of a Higher Ordination (Upasampadā) Declaration

1. The application form (Registration J 2) must be completed in two original copies.

2. The signature and official seal of the Mahanayaka Thera must be correctly placed in the signature box.

3. Registration can be performed only after the duly completed application form is approved by the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs, Deputy Commissioner, or Assistant Commissioner.

03. Issuance of a Disrobing/Laicization Certificate (Upävedi)

(When a registered Sāmaṇera or Upasampadā registration number exists)

1. Submission of the original letter on the Mahanayaka Thera’s official letterhead of the relevant Nikāya. This letter must:

   • Confirm the applicant’s details, including the Upasampadā/Sāmaṇera numbers.

   • State that amendments have also been made to the Mahanayaka Thera’s own records.

2. The formal request letter for the Disrobing Certificate from the applicant (owner).

04. Issuance of a Disrobing/Laicization Certificate (Upävedi)

(If Sāmaṇera or Upasampadā registration has not been done)

1. In cases where registration has not been performed, a letter must be issued on the official letterhead of the Mahanayaka Thera of the relevant Nikāya. This letter must:

   • Certify that the individual was ordained and resided as a monk.

   • State that no registration exists.

2. The formal request letter.

05. Issuance of Copies of Sāmaṇera or Upasampadā Certificates

1. Copies are issued with the signature of authorized officers upon the submission of an application specifying the relevant registration certificate numbers and payment of the required fee.

06. Bhikkhu (Monk) Identity Cards

1. The BH application form must be submitted with all information correctly filled out, the required signatures and official seals, and colour photographs. (Refer to page 04 of the BH application form for general instructions.)

2. The received applications for Bhikkhu Identity Cards are examined, the relevant ID card is printed, and sent to the Divisional Secretary via post.

3. The Divisional Secretariat Office notifies the relevant Thera that the Identity Card has been received.