Acquiring US citizenship is a significant milestone, but it also brings about changes regarding your Indian passport. A common question that arises is: “Can I travel with an Indian passport after getting US citizenship?” This guide will provide a detailed answer and address other frequently asked questions about renouncing Indian citizenship.
When you become a US citizen, you are generally required to surrender your Indian passport. The Indian Citizenship Act does not allow dual citizenship. Therefore, holding, acquiring, or traveling on an Indian passport after becoming a US citizen is a violation of the Indian Passport Act and can lead to penalties, imprisonment, or both.
Alt text: A close-up of a United States passport, symbolizing US citizenship.
Renunciation/Surrender Certificate: What is it?
A Renunciation/Surrender Certificate is issued to individuals who surrender their Indian passport to the Indian Consulate after acquiring foreign nationality, such as US citizenship. It serves as official proof that you have renounced your Indian citizenship.
How to Apply for a Renunciation/Surrender Certificate
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Visit the VFS Global website (https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-for-renunciation) and complete the online Renunciation application.
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Submit a physical copy of the application along with the required documents and fee to the VFS center. You can submit it by walk-in or by mail to:
Indian Consular Application Centre
145 W 45th Street 3rd Floor
New York, New York 10036
The processing time is typically 1-2 working days, excluding VFS mailing time, provided all documentation is in order.
Surrender Certificate vs. Renunciation Certificate: Are They Different?
No, the terms are interchangeable. Both refer to the same certificate issued by the Indian Consulate upon surrendering your Indian passport after obtaining foreign citizenship.
What if My Indian Passport is Lost or Misplaced?
If you have lost your Indian passport, you will be issued a “Renunciation Declaration Certificate” instead of a Renunciation/Surrender Certificate. To obtain this, you’ll need to submit a sworn affidavit explaining the loss of your Indian passport, along with other required documents.
Holding an Indian Passport After Acquiring US Citizenship: Is it Allowed?
Absolutely not. As mentioned earlier, India does not permit dual citizenship. Using an Indian passport after becoming a US citizen is a serious offense with potential legal consequences.
Can the Penalty for Retaining an Indian Passport Be Waived?
No, penalties for retaining and/or using an Indian passport after acquiring foreign citizenship cannot be waived.
Required Documents for Renunciation/Surrender
When applying for renunciation, you generally need to submit the following documents:
- Your last Indian passport
- A copy of your US Naturalization Certificate
- A copy of your current valid US passport
Alt text: A visual representation of an Indian Passport, highlighting the document that needs to be surrendered after acquiring foreign citizenship.
Proof of Indian Origin Without an Indian Passport
If you don’t have a copy of your last Indian passport, you can provide alternative documents to prove your Indian origin:
a. Naturalization Certificate and current valid passport
b. Sworn affidavit on loss of Indian Passport
c. Birth Certificate of applicant OR
d. Notarized copy of educational certificate issued by an institution of India OR
e. Domicile Certificate or certificate of residence or certificate of place of birth of self or parents or grandparents from First Class Magistrate / District Magistrate (DM) of the concerned place.
The Consulate has the final say on whether to accept these documents as proof of Indian citizenship.
Expired Indian Passport: Can I Still Get a Renunciation Certificate?
Yes, you can surrender an expired Indian passport. However, a Renunciation/Surrender Certificate will not be issued for passports that are impounded, revoked, suspended, or cancelled (against re-issue).
Applying for OCI and Renunciation Simultaneously
No, you cannot apply for OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) and Renunciation at the same time. These are separate processes and must be applied for independently.
Is it Necessary to Carry the Certificate of Renunciation When Traveling to India?
No, it is not mandatory to carry the Certificate of Renunciation of Indian Citizenship when traveling to India.
Error on My Renunciation Certificate: What Should I Do?
If there is an error in the spelling of your name or any other information on your Renunciation Certificate, contact the Consulate through PRAMIT. They will review your documents and advise you on the next steps for correction.
Applying for Renunciation and Visa Together
Yes, you can apply for Renunciation and a visa to India at the same time.
Applying for OCI and Visa Together
No, it’s not advisable to apply for OCI and a visa together as they are separate applications. Apply for each one separately.
Penalties for Retaining an Indian Passport After Obtaining Foreign Citizenship
The penalty amount depends on several factors:
- The number of years you retained the Indian passport after obtaining foreign citizenship.
- The number of times the Indian passport was used for travel to India after obtaining foreign citizenship.
- The number of times you renewed/re-issued the Indian passport after obtaining foreign citizenship.
Is a Naturalization Certificate Required for Renunciation?
Yes, the naturalization certificate issued by the foreign government is a necessary document for the renunciation process.
Grace Period for Obtaining a Renunciation Certificate
Indian nationals have a grace period of 3 years from the date of acquiring foreign citizenship to obtain a Renunciation Certificate.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of renouncing Indian citizenship after becoming a US citizen can seem complex, but understanding the rules and procedures is crucial. Remember that India does not allow dual citizenship, and using an Indian passport after acquiring US citizenship can lead to penalties. By following the steps outlined above and providing the necessary documentation, you can successfully complete the renunciation process and ensure compliance with Indian law. For any further questions or concerns, it is always best to contact the Indian Consulate directly through PRAMIT.
