The Indian government has introduced a new platform to streamline the application process for citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). Launched on March 12, 2024, by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), this portal is designed to assist eligible individuals. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the CAA Portal and how to apply for Indian citizenship.
Understanding the CAA Portal for Indian Citizenship
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of 2019 provides specific provisions for individuals seeking Indian citizenship. This portal is intended for those who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014, from Bangladesh, Afghanistan, or Pakistan and belong to one of the following communities: Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, or Christian.
Key Highlights of the CAA Portal
- Name of the Scheme: CAA Portal
- Launched by: Indian Government
- Launch Date: March 12, 2024
- Department: Ministry of Home Affairs
- Objective: Grant Indian citizenship to refugees who sought shelter in India before December 31, 2014
- Mode: Online
- Beneficiaries: Persons eligible under CAA-2019
- Benefit: Indian citizenship
- Official Website: indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in
Objectives of the CAA Portal
The portal aims to assist individuals persecuted in Afghanistan, Pakistan, or Bangladesh due to their religious beliefs. Targeted communities include Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Hindus. The CAA Portal allows eligible individuals to apply for Indian citizenship online, making the process more efficient and ensuring all necessary documentation is provided.
Features of the CAA Portal
- Application Guidelines: Applicants can use various documents to prove nationality, including certificates from local body members instead of a visa.
- Document Requirements: The need for a residence permit and a valid passport from the applicant’s country of origin has been waived. A variety of documents such as birth certificates, educational records, or land records will suffice.
- Eligibility Verification: Documents showing lineage (parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents) from the specified countries are accepted, even if expired.
- Simplified Process: The application process is straightforward, requiring basic personal information, contact details, and proof of eligibility.
Required Documents
To apply for citizenship through the CAA Portal, you will need the following documents:
- Passport size photograph
- Mobile number
- Copy of passport from Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Bangladesh (if available)
- Birth certificate
- Identity document, land or tenancy records, or any document showing lineage from the specified countries
- Proof of entry into India before December 31, 2014 (e.g., immigration stamp, visa, registration certificate, census slip, or government-issued ID)
- Eligibility certificate from a community institution confirming membership in one of the six minority communities
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for citizenship under the CAA:
- Belong to one of the persecuted minorities: Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, or Christian.
- Originating from Pakistan, Bangladesh, or Afghanistan.
- Entered India on or before December 31, 2014.
How to Apply for Indian Citizenship on the CAA Portal
Follow these steps to apply for citizenship through the CAA Portal:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in.
- Submit Application: Click on the “Click to Submit Application for Indian Citizenship Under CAA, 2019” button.
- Enter Details: Fill in the required details, including mobile number and email ID.
- Upload Documents: Upload the necessary documents as specified.
- Save Application: Save the completed application form in PDF format for future reference.
Contact Information
For further assistance, contact the support team at:
- Address: Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Near Pragati Maidan, New Delhi-110001
- Email: support.ctznoci@mha.gov.in
- Phone: +91-11-23070167
By following this guide, you can navigate the CAA Portal and apply for Indian citizenship efficiently. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents ready to complete your application.
CAA Portal FAQs:
What is the CAA Portal?
The CAA Portal is an online platform launched by the Indian government on March 12, 2024, to facilitate the application process for Indian citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) of 2019.
Who is eligible to apply for citizenship through the CAA Portal?
Individuals from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, or Christian communities who came to India from Bangladesh, Afghanistan, or Pakistan on or before December 31, 2014, are eligible to apply for citizenship through the CAA Portal.
What documents are required to apply for Indian citizenship on the CAA Portal?
Required documents include a passport size photograph, mobile number, copy of passport from the applicant’s country of origin (if available), birth certificate, identity documents, land or tenancy records, proof of entry into India before December 31, 2014, and an eligibility certificate from a community institution.
How can I prove my entry into India before December 31, 2014?
Proof of entry can include an immigration stamp, visa, registration certificate from the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO), a slip from an Indian census enumerator, or any government-issued document like an Indian driving license, Aadhaar number, ration card, or marriage certificate.
How do I apply for citizenship through the CAA Portal?
To apply, visit indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in, click on “Click to Submit Application for Indian Citizenship Under CAA, 2019,” fill in the required details, upload the necessary documents, and save the completed application form in PDF format.
What if I don’t have a valid passport from my country of origin?
The CAA regulations waive the need for a valid passport. Instead, you can provide other documents such as a birth certificate, educational records, land or tenancy records, or any document showing lineage from the specified countries.
Are expired documents acceptable for proving eligibility?
Yes, documents demonstrating that one or both of the applicant’s parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were citizens of Bangladesh, Afghanistan, or Pakistan are acceptable even if they are expired.
Can I apply for citizenship if I do not have an email address or mobile number?
No, you must have a distinct email address and mobile number to register and complete the application process on the CAA Portal.
What is the contact information for support regarding the CAA Portal?
For further assistance, you can contact the support team at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, Near Pragati Maidan, New Delhi-110001, email: support.ctznoci@mha.gov.in, or phone: +91-11-23070167.
When can I expect to receive my Indian citizenship after applying?
The processing time for citizenship applications can vary. Ensure all documents are submitted accurately to avoid delays. You will be notified of the status of your application through the contact information provided in your application.
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