Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Citizenship in India is governed by the Citizenship Act of 1955, which outlines the acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship. There are several ways to become an Indian citizen, including by birth, descent, registration, and naturalization. The Indian government has also introduced amendments and provisions to address specific citizenship issues, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of 2019, which provides eligibility for citizenship for certain minorities from neighboring countries. Indian citizenship law ensures that citizenship status is documented and grants rights like voting, right to travel, and protection under the government’s policies.
Understanding and navigating the complexities of citizenship laws in India can be challenging. Here are common situations where legal advice may be necessary:
Some key aspects of Indian citizenship laws include:
Indian citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, registration, and naturalization, each with its specific criteria and procedures under the Citizenship Act, 1955.
The CAA provides a pathway for certain religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan to acquire Indian citizenship under specified conditions, which has been a subject of both legal and public discussions.
An individual can apply for citizenship by naturalization if they have resided in India for 12 years, among other conditions such as renouncement of previous nationality and fulfilling residency requirements.
No, India does not permit dual citizenship. Indian citizens who acquire citizenship of another country automatically lose Indian citizenship but may apply for OCI status.
An OCI is a visa category available to foreign nationals of Indian origin, allowing them multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visas to visit India.
Yes, citizenship can be revoked under certain conditions such as acts of disloyalty, fraud in application, or for citizens who voluntarily acquire citizenship of another country.
Documents typically required include proof of identity, residence, state of origin for birth registration, and any legal transformations such as name change certificates, if applicable.
Yes, minors can apply for citizenship through their guardians in various applicable categories such as birth, descent, or registration.
The most notable recent change is the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of 2019, which generated significant discussion and debate related to its provisions on religious minorities.
The processing time for a citizenship application in India can vary widely based on the type of application and completeness of documentation, often taking several months to a few years.
For individuals seeking more information or assistance regarding citizenship in India, the following resources may be helpful:
If you require legal assistance in citizenship matters, consider the following steps:
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in India through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Citizenship, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
Get a quote from top-rated law firms in India — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
Refine your search by selecting a city.
