Aday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre notified the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the Union Home Ministry launched a web portal for applicant’s registrations on Tuesday. This portal facilitates the application process for individuals who migrated to India before December 31, 2014.
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To begin, applicants simply need to log in using their personal email ID and mobile number, fill out the online form, upload necessary documents, and pay the prescribed fee. Here is your step-by-step guide to apply for the citizenship on the portal:
Eligibility Criteria:
Individuals belonging to Hindu or Sikh or Buddhist or Jain or Parsi or Christian community from Afghanistan or Bangladesh or Pakistan.
Individuals who entered into India on or before 31.12.2014; and
Individuals who has been exempted by or under section 3(2)(c) of the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920 or from the application of the provisions of the Foreigners Act, 1946 or any rule or order made thereunder.
Required Documents:When applying for Indian citizenship under CAA, you can provide any of the following documents:
1. A copy of valid passport issued by the governments of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, or Pakistan.
2. A birth certificate issued by a government authority in these countries.
3. Educational certificates from schools, colleges, boards, or universities in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, or Pakistan.
4. Any identity document issued by government authorities in these countries.
5. A residential permit issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer or Foreigners Registration Officer in India.
6. Any licence issued by government authorities in these three countries.
7. Land or tenancy records from these countries.
8. Any document indicating that either of your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents was or is a citizen of these countries. Essentially, any document issued by a government authority in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, or Pakistan to prove your nationality is acceptable for the citizenship process, even if the document has expired.
Documents Required to Prove Entry into India Before December 31, 2014:To prove entry into India before December 31, 2014, you will need the following documents:
1. A copy of the visa and immigration stamp upon arrival.
2. Registration certificate or residential permit issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer or Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) in India.
3. A slip issued by Census enumerators during surveys in India.
4. Any government-issued licence, certificate, or permit in India (such as a driving licence, Aadhaar card, etc.)
5. Ration card issued in India.
6. Any official letter issued by the government or court to you with an official stamp.
7. Birth certificate issued in India.
8. Land or tenancy records or a registered rental agreement in India under your name.
9. PAN card with the date of issue.
10. Any document issued by the Centre or state government, PSUs, or other public authorities.
11. Certificate issued by an elected member of any rural or urban body or officer.
12. Account details issued by banks, including private banks, or post office accounts in your name.
13. Insurance policies issued by companies in India under your name.
14. Electricity connection papers, bills, or other utility bills under your name.
15. Court or tribunal records concerning you.
16. Documents showing employment in India supported by Employees Provident Fund/General Provident Fund/Pension/Employees’ State Insurance Corporation.
17. School-leaving certificate issued in India.
18. Academic certificates issued by schools, colleges, universities, or government institutions.
19. Municipality trade licence.
20. Marriage certificate.
Where to Apply:To apply for Indian citizenship, you can do so online at https://indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in. Additionally, a mobile application called CAA-2019 is currently being developed. Applications will be reviewed by an Empowered Committee through the District Level Committee led by a designated officer.
How to Apply for Indian Citizenship:1. Go to the ‘Indian Citizenship Online Portal’ by clicking on this link: https://indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in
2. Scroll down and locate the tab labelled ‘Click to submit application for Indian citizenship under CAA, 2019’ and then Click on it.
3. Sign up on the portal using your mobile number or email address and enter the captcha code to proceed.
4. Complete the application form with the required details and documents (listed above).
5. Click on ‘Submit’ and download the receipt of the application form.
