Giving up your renunciation of Indian citizenship might sound overwhelming, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know the steps. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about returning your Indian passport after you’ve acquired citizenship in another country.
Understanding the Renunciation Process
Look, if an Indian takes citizenship in another country, they have to go through the renunciation of Indian citizenship. It’s not optional but it’s the law. India doesn’t allow dual citizenship under the Citizenship Act of 1955. So the moment someone becomes a citizen elsewhere, they need to apply to renounce their Indian citizenship. That’s how you officially cut ties with India.
And people always ask: does India allow dual citizenship? The answer is simple, no. Indian nationals can’t hold two passports. That hasn’t changed, not even with the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Once citizenship in another country is obtained, renouncing Indian citizenship is mandatory. There’s just no way around it.
Preparing Your Documentation
If you want the renunciation of Indian citizenship, don’t wait until the last minute – start collecting all your documents at least a couple of weeks before your appointment. It just makes everything a lot smoother and saves you from last-minute headaches.
- Indian passport:
The most crucial document is your actual Indian passport. You will receive this back following cancellation. Even if it has expired, be sure it is still in good condition. You must initially make a police report and follow other steps if your Indian passport is lost, whether in India or outside.
- Documents:
Both your original foreign passport and photocopies of the biographical page should be kept on hand. The government must see evidence that you are now a citizen of another nation. Verify again that the copies are readable and clear and that your passport is still on the charts.
- Photographs
Recent passport-sized photographs are essential. Follow the standard Indian visa picture requirements – plain light background, neutral expression, and no headwear unless for religious purposes. Get multiple copies to be safe.
- Address
Proof of your current address is mandatory. This could be a utility bill, rental agreement, or driver’s license from your country of residence. The document should be recent and show your name clearly.
Don’t forget your naturalization certificate or proof of foreign citizenship. This demonstrates how you acquired your new nationality. Keep both original and copies ready.
The Application Procedure
Most countries handle the renunciation of Indian citizenship through VFS Global centers. These centers act as processing agencies for Indian missions abroad. For example, if you need to renew your Indian passport in San Francisco, USA you’d visit the same VFS center that handles renunciation applications.
- Start by completing the online Renunciation Application Form. This form collects your personal details, passport information, and foreign citizenship details. Take your time filling it out accurately. Any mistakes can delay your application.
- Locate your file number in the Indian passport before starting the application.
- Officials can easily access your data using this number, which is located on the second page of your passport. It greatly expedites the verification procedure.
- Make an appointment at the VFS center of your choice after filling out the form. Walk-in services are rarely available, thus reservations must be made online in advance. Select a date that allows you ample time to get all of your paperwork ready.
Submission and Payment Process
On your appointment day, arrive early with all original documents and photocopies. The VFS official will verify each document against your originals. This thorough check ensures everything is in order before forwarding to the consulate.
This is your opportunity to specifically request an Indian passport return. You must clearly state that you want your cancelled passport back. There’s usually a separate fee for this service. If you don’t request it, your passport might be destroyed after cancellation.
Payment includes the renunciation fee plus any additional services like passport return or courier charges. Keep your payment receipt safe – it contains your application number for passport tracking Indian status.
Tracking Your Application
After submission, the waiting period begins. The passport processing time in India for renunciation varies significantly. It can take anywhere from two to eight weeks, depending on the consulate’s workload and your application’s complexity.
Use your application number to track progress online. The VFS or Passport Seva portal provides regular updates. You’ll see statuses like “Received at Consulate,” “Under Process,” and finally “Dispatched.” Regular Indian visa checking helps you stay informed about your application’s journey.
During peak seasons, processing might take longer. If your application exceeds the expected timeline, contact VFS customer service for updates. Avoid making travel plans that require your documents during this period.
Receiving Your Documents
Upon completion, you’ll receive two crucial documents: your Renunciation Certificate and cancelled Indian passport. The Renunciation Certificate is your legal proof of completed renunciation of Indian citizenship. Guard this document carefully – you’ll need it for future transactions with Indian authorities.
Your Indian passport will be returned cancelled, typically with holes punched through the cover. While invalid for travel, it serves as personal documentation of your former citizenship. Many people keep it as a memento of their journey.
If you ever need a copy of your renunciation certificate later, here’s how to get a copy of a renunciation certificate: you’ll have to submit a formal application along with the supporting documents and fees. Honestly, it’s much easier to just keep the original safe from the start.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
Now, let’s talk about some common situations. Losing your passport is one of them. Whether it’s lost in India or abroad, you’ll need to provide a police report and might have to get a duplicate passport before you can complete the renunciation. It adds a few extra steps, but it doesn’t stop the process.
And if you need to travel urgently, here’s the thing, you have to plan ahead. The renunciation of the Indian citizenship process doesn’t have an official fast-track option, so give yourself enough time to get it done. Complete the procedure months before any planned travel to avoid complications.
Remember that renunciation of Indian citizenship is prerequisite for OCI card application. You cannot apply for OCI status without first completing the renunciation process and obtaining your certificate.
Important Considerations
The entire process from application to Indian passport return requires patience and attention to detail. Double-check all forms before submission and maintain copies of everything you submit. Follow up regularly through proper channels if delays occur.
Keep your Renunciation Certificate permanently. You’ll need it for life events like property transactions in India or applying for visas. Consider making certified copies while keeping the original secure.
Understand that renunciation of Indian citizenship is irreversible. Once completed, you cannot reclaim Indian citizenship without going through the standard immigration process like any other foreign national.
Conclusion:
The journey of renunciation of Indian citizenship marks a significant life transition. While it involves detailed paperwork and waiting periods, each step serves a specific purpose in formally documenting your changed citizenship status.
Remember that thousands complete this process successfully each year. With proper preparation and patience, you’ll navigate the renunciation of Indian citizenship efficiently and move forward with your new citizenship status confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step for renunciation of Indian citizenship?
Begin by gathering all required documents including your original Indian passport, foreign passport, proof of address, and photographs before completing the online application form.
Does India allow dual citizenship with any country?
No, India does not permit dual citizenship with any foreign country. The acquisition of foreign citizenship automatically requires renunciation of Indian citizenship.
How long does the entire renunciation process take?
The passport processing time for renunciation typically ranges from two to eight weeks, depending on the specific Indian mission and completeness of your application.
How can I track my renunciation application status?
Use the application number from your receipt for passport tracking through the VFS Global website or Passport Seva portal for regular status updates.
Why is the file number in an Indian passport important?
The file number helps authorities quickly locate your records in their system, significantly speeding up the verification and processing of your renunciation application.
What should I do if my Indian passport is lost?
If your Indian passport is lost, file a police report first and obtain a duplicate passport or identity certificate before proceeding with renunciation.
Can I get my Indian passport back after renunciation?
Yes, you can request an Indian passport return by specifically asking for this service during application submission and paying the applicable fee.
What is the Renunciation Certificate used for?
This certificate serves as legal proof of your completed renunciation and is required for OCI card applications and other official transactions with Indian authorities.
How do I get a duplicate Renunciation Certificate?
To get a copy of the renunciation certificate, submit a formal application with supporting documents and fees to the Indian mission that issued your original certificate.
Is renunciation required before OCI card application?
Yes, completion of renunciation of Indian citizenship and submission of the certificate is mandatory for most OCI card applicants.