As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, India offers a wealth of opportunities for overseas workers. Before you figure out how to get an Indian citizenship, you should scour its significant advantages, which includes increased rights and unrestricted travel. Also, given the complexity of Indian immigration law, it’s essential to seek professional advice if you’re considering this path. However, this guide provides a basic overview of how to get an Indian citizenship—so you can get started on your research.
How to get an Indian citizenship: 4 ways by which you can acquire a citizenship in the country
1. By birth
Citizenship by birth in India is granted under two primary conditions. Firstly, if both parents are Indian citizens, a child born anywhere in the world is automatically an Indian citizen. Secondly, if one parent is an Indian citizen and the other is not, a child born within Indian territory can acquire Indian citizenship.
2. By descent
Individuals born outside India can acquire Indian citizenship by descent, if at least one parent is an Indian citizen at the time of their birth. However, for those born after 3 December, 2004, the non-Indian parent must not be an illegal immigrant. To establish citizenship claims, it’s essential to register the child’s birth at an Indian consulate within a year of the latter. Failure to do so might require additional approvals from the Indian government.
3. By registration
Citizenship by registration in India is given to individuals who have a close connection to the country, but who weren’t born Indian citizens. This includes women married to Indian citizens, children of individuals who have become Indian citizens, and people of Indian-origin fulfilling specific criteria. The process involves submitting an application with the necessary documents to appropriate authorities. The eligibility and specific requirements vary, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
4. By naturalisation
Naturalisation is the process of acquiring Indian citizenship for foreign nationals. It typically requires a continuous residence in India for a minimum of 12 years. Additionally, applicants must possess good character, knowledge of a local language, and have a means of livelihood. Renouncing previous citizenship is usually mandatory. The process involves submitting an application with supporting documents to the relevant authorities, followed by a rigorous verification process.
Important things to consider before applying for an Indian citizenship
Obtaining Indian citizenship involves several key considerations, like renouncing your previous nationality. Secondly, the method you opt for may entail specific residency requirements in India. The eligibility criteria for each method comes with its own set of rules, dos and don’ts. It’s essential to check the specific requirements based on your situation. The Indian government has an online portal for citizenship applications where you can go through additional information. While this is just a general overview of information, make sure you do your own thorough research. The Ministry of Home Affairs’ website provides comprehensive information about Indian citizenship. Even consulting with the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country, for accurate and up-to-date guidance based on your specific circumstance, would be a good idea too.
