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Central GovernmentMHA-Citizenship
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Indian Citizenship Online (MHA)

Department / Authority: Foreigners Division, Ministry of Home Affairs

Am I ready to apply?

Check off the requirements below to verify if you have everything ready before visiting the portal.

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Tip: Keep digital scans (PDF/JPEG within prescribed file size limits) ready before launching the online form to avoid session timeouts.

What this service does

Official Ministry of Home Affairs portal for foreigners, persons of Indian origin (PIO/OCI), and spouses of Indian citizens to apply for Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Act 1955.

Who can use it / Eligibility

Persons of Indian origin residing in India for 7 years, persons married to Indian citizens residing in India for 7 years, minor children of Indian citizens, or persons eligible for naturalisation (12 years residency).

What you'll need (Documents Required)

  • 1Valid Foreign Passport and Indian Visa / Residential Permit / OCI Card
  • 2Proof of Indian Origin (Parents'/Grandparents' Indian passport or birth certificate)
  • 3Marriage Certificate (for citizenship by marriage to Indian citizen)
  • 4Proof of continuous residence in India for specified period
  • 5Bank statements, character certificates, and two affidavits from Indian citizens

How it works (Step-by-Step)

  1. 1
    Access indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in and select the appropriate Section (5(1)(a), 5(1)(c), 5(1)(f), or Section 6).
  2. 2
    Complete the online application form and upload scanned copies of passport, visa, and residency proofs.
  3. 3
    Submit the physical application with original documents to the District Magistrate / Collector's office.
  4. 4
    Undergo state police and CID verification checks.
  5. 5
    Upon central approval by MHA, take the Oath of Allegiance, surrender foreign passport, and receive the Certificate of Naturalisation/Registration.

Key Service Facts

Statutory Fees

₹500 for application submission + ₹1,000 to ₹10,000 upon grant of citizenship depending on category.

Processing Time

3 to 6 Months (Subject to State Police and Central Security verification)

Helpline

011-23077505 (MHA Citizenship Cell)

Verified Source

Every URL, document list, and fee requirement is verified against gov.in or nic.in portals. (indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in).

Last verified: 17 Sept 2026
Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
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