Disclaimer
The sample Nationality Certificate application form provided below is only for illustrative and reference purposes and has been adapted from the application format used in the National Capital Territory of Delhi to help readers understand the general nature of information required.
Nationality Certificate formats, issuing authorities, documentation requirements, fees, and timelines vary across States and Union Territories and are governed by the respective State Revenue and Citizen Service Rules.
What Is a Nationality Certificate
A Nationality Certificate is an official document issued by a State/UT authority certifying that a person is an Indian national.
It is typically required for:
- Passport-related matters (specific cases)
- Government jobs or scholarships
- Educational admissions abroad
- Court or administrative verification
Think of it as a paper proof of belonging—issued by the State, not the emotion.
Issuing Authority (Varies by State)
Common authorities include:
- District Magistrate / Sub-Divisional Magistrate
- Tehsildar / Revenue Officer
- e-District / Citizen Service Centres
There is no single national format.
Online and Offline Application – State-wise Snapshot
| State / UT | Official Portal | Online Application | Offline Mode | Fee (Indicative) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in/ | Yes | SDM Office | Nominal | 7–15 days |
| Maharashtra | https://aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in/ | Yes | Tahsil Office | Nominal | 7–15 days |
| Uttar Pradesh | https://edistrict.up.gov.in/edistrictup/ | Yes | Tehsil | Nominal | 7–15 days |
| Karnataka | https://nadakacheri.karnataka.gov.in/AJSK/ | Yes | Nadakacheri | Nominal | 5–10 days |
| Tamil Nadu | https://www.tnesevai.tn.gov.in/citizen/portallogin.aspx | Yes | e-Sevai Centre | Nominal | 7–15 days |
| Other States | State e-District portals | Yes | Revenue Office | Varies | Varies |
All portals listed are official gov.in / nic.in websites.
Online Procedure (General)
- Visit State e-District / citizen services portal
- Select Nationality Certificate
- Fill application form
- Upload documents
- Pay fee (if applicable)
- Track status online
Digital application, physical verification—India in one line.
Offline Procedure (General)
- Obtain application form from Tehsil/SDM office
- Fill details and attach documents
- Submit to designated authority
- Field verification (if required)
- Collect certificate
Slower, but still legally solid.
Documents Commonly Required
- Birth certificate or school leaving certificate
- Address proof
- Identity proof
- Parents' nationality proof (where required)
- Passport (if available)
- Affidavit (State-specific)
States love documents. Carry originals.
Fees
- Generally nominal (₹0–₹100 range in many States)
- CSC/e-Sevai centres may charge a service fee
If someone quotes "premium processing", walk away.
Validity
- Usually permanent, unless limited by issuing authority
- Some departments issue for specific purposes
Always read the fine print on the certificate.
Sample Application Form (Illustrative – Delhi)
The sample form below reflects the Delhi e-District application structure, typically including:
- Applicant details
- Birth and residence details
- Parents' nationality details
- Declaration and verification
FAQs – Nationality Certificate
1. Is this the same as a Passport?
No. A passport is travel authority; this is a nationality proof.
2. Is it mandatory for all citizens?
No. It is required only for specific purposes.
3. Can minors apply?
Yes, through parents/guardians.
4. Is Aadhaar sufficient instead?
Often no. Many authorities ask specifically for this certificate.
5. Can it be applied online everywhere?
Most States—yes. Not all services are fully digitised.
6. Can it be rejected?
Yes, if nationality cannot be verified.
FAQ's
Files
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| Sample: Nationality Certificate (Delhi) (63.16 KB) | 63.16 KB |
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