Proof of Renunciation of Indian Citizenship
India does not allow dual citizenship. In order to apply for OCI or PIO the applicant has to show a proof of Renunciation of Indian Citizenship. One of the following can be produced as proof of Renunciation:
- Copy of the certificate of Renunciation issued by a Consulate in India.
- Copy of Indian passport with a stamp that indicates “Cancelled as holder acquired US/Foreign citizenship.”
If the applicant has not renounced the Indian Citizenship they can apply for Renunciation with the OCI or PIO card. They can send the documents in one envelope. The documents required to apply for the renunciation of Indian Citizenship are:
Most Recent Original Indian Passport
If your most recent Indian passport is available then provide the following:
- 2 copies of completed Renunciation form.
- Copies of the 1st 3 and last 2 pages of the passport.
Copy of Naturalization Certificate
If the applicant does not have the most recent Indian Passport, the naturalization date will determine what requirements are needed.
- A notarized Affidavit of Loss. If the application is from Houston, a police report for the loss of passport is also required.
- A copy of the applicant’s Indian birth certificate or school leaving certificate or any document showing proof of former Indian Citizenship.
- If the applicant was naturalized over 10 years ago, provide 2 copies of deemed surrender certificate form. Depending on the date of naturalization the fee will be calculated on the Order Form. In this case a 25.00 renunciation fee will be charged in addition to the regular fees.
- If the applicant was naturalized after June 1, 2010, 2 copies of the Renunciation Declaration Form must be provided. Depending on the date of naturalization the fee will be calculated on the Order Form. In this case a $175.00 renunciation fee will be charged in addition to the regular fees.
For more details about the documents and fees required to apply for renunciation, refer to Renunciation of Indian Citizenship Documents.
What happens if the applicant does not apply for Renunciation of Indian Citizenship?
If the most recent Indian Passport is retained for more than 3 years after the applicant acquires citizenship of another country, a penalty of $250.00 will be automatically calculated on the Order Form. In addition a penalty of $250.00 will be charged for each case of misuse of Indian passport for travel at any time after acquiring citizenship of another country. The maximum penalty will be $1250.00. The exception applies when the most recent Indian Passport expired before January 1, 2005 or where the most recent Indian Passport shows a “Cancelled” stamp. You can refer to the flowchart of penalty and fee for further information.