Renouncing Indian citizenship is a legal process for individuals who wish to give up their Indian nationality to acquire citizenship in another country. Since India does not allow dual citizenship, individuals who obtain foreign nationality must officially renounce their Indian citizenship. This guide provides a step-by-step process, explaining necessary documents, fees, timelines, and the implications of renunciation.
Who Can Apply?
Any Indian citizen who has obtained foreign citizenship (except those of Pakistan or Bangladesh) must renounce their Indian citizenship. This process is mandatory, as holding dual citizenship is not under Indian law. If an individual continues to use their Indian passport after acquiring foreign nationality, they may be penalized under the Indian Passport Act.
Steps to Renounce Indian Citizenship
Before starting the application process, applicants must collect all necessary documents to avoid delays. The required documents include:
- Indian Passport: A self-attested copy of the first and last pages of your Indian passport. Ensure that the passport has not expired for more than three years.
- Foreign Passport: Provide a copy of the foreign passport (if already obtained) or, if the foreign passport is still being processed, a copy of the naturalization certificate.
- Recent Passport-size Photograph: Two or more passport-size photographs are usually required per embassy guidelines.
1. Fill Out Form XXII
The renunciation process requires completing Form XXII, the official document declaring the voluntary surrender of Indian citizenship. This form can be downloaded from the Ministry of Home Affairs website or collected from the nearest Indian embassy/consulate. The form includes sections to provide details such as:
- Personal information (Name, Date of Birth, Place of Birth, Current Address, etc.)
- Details of Indian passport (Passport Number, Date of Issue, Place of Issue)
- Details of foreign nationality (Foreign passport number, Date of acquiring citizenship)
- Declaration and Signature
2. Submit the Application Online
Once the form is completed, applicants must submit it online through the Ministry of Home Affairs website. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal for citizenship services in India.
- Register for an account using your email and phone number.
- Select the option for Renunciation of Indian Citizenship and fill in the details.
- Upload scanned copies of the required documents, ensuring clarity and legibility.
- Submit the form and take a printout of the confirmation receipt.
3. Pay the Fees
The renunciation fee varies based on the applicant’s location. Typically, the charges range from $25 to $175, depending on whether the consulate or embassy is processing the application. It can be via:
- Online payment (Debit/Credit card, Net banking, UPI)
- Money order or bank draft
- Cash payments at the embassy (if allowed by the respective consulate)
4. Visit the Indian Embassy/Consulate
After submitting the online application and paying the fees, applicants must visit the nearest Indian embassy or consulate to complete the process. Steps include:
- Book an Appointment: Most embassies require prior appointments, which can be scheduled online.
- Carry Original Documents: Bring originals and copies of all submitted documents for verification.
- Submit Printed Form XXII and Payment Receipt: Present the printed confirmation page and payment receipt.
- Provide Biometric Details (if required): Some consulates may require fingerprinting or photographs.
5. Receive the Renunciation Certificate
Once the application is processed and verified, the embassy or consulate issues a Renunciation Certificate. This document proves that the applicant is no longer an Indian citizen.
- The processing time varies but typically takes 2 to 6 weeks.
- Applicants may surrender their original Indian passport upon receiving the renunciation certificate.
- Some consulates allow applicants to track their application status online.
Consequences of Renouncing Indian Citizenship
Renouncing Indian citizenship has several legal and personal implications:
- Using it after acquiring foreign citizenship is illegal and subject to penalties.
- Former Indian citizens must obtain a visa or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to travel to India.
- Renounced citizens lose the right to vote in Indian elections and cannot hold government positions in India.
Conclusion
Renouncing Indian citizenship is a straightforward but crucial process. By following the correct steps and ensuring all documents are in order, applicants can smoothly transition to their new nationality. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult the nearest Indian embassy or legal experts to avoid complications.