Identity Certificate

The Certificate of Identity is a document given to Tibetan Refugees in India by the Regional Passport Office in Delhi.  The Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama (HHDL) in New Delhi provides the recommendations for this issuance.  

 Apart from Tibetan refugees, Stateless individuals living in India can also apply for this certificate. However, the issuance process requires clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs (PSP Division).   

Application Process and Submission

 To apply for a Certificate of Identity, one can obtain the necessary form from the Passport Seva website. Tibetan Refugees must submit their application at the RPO Delhi. In contrast, Stateless individuals should apply at the passport office located in the jurisdiction of their current residence in India.   

Validity and Fees

 The Identity Certificate of India usually has a validity period of 10 years. For details on the associated fees, individuals can refer to the "Fee Calculator" section on the Passport Seva website.   

Important Considerations for Applicants

Those possessing a Certificate of Identity should return to India before the certificate’s expiration. If they wish to have it re-issued upon its final expiry (after 10 years), they must do so in India.  

 They should then proceed to apply at RPO Delhi. However, Tibetan Refugees who are full-time students at recognized foreign universities receive an exception. Students can apply for a new Certificate of Identity at the Indian Mission or Post in their host country.   

The Appearance

 The Indian Identity Certificates come in a yellow cover that has gold-colored letters on it. In the middle of the front cover, there’s the Emblem of India.   

 Above this emblem, there are English words ’Identity Certificate’. Below the emblem, the name of the country is written in both Hindi and English. This booklet typically has 36 pages.   

Online Application Process

 To apply online, begin by registering on the Passport Seva Online Portal from the homepage. Once registered, use the new login ID to access the portal.   

Next, choose the "Apply for Identity Certificate" option. Carefully fill out all necessary details in the form and submit it. After submitting, print the application using the "View/Print Submitted Form" option.  Remember to bring the printed application and original documents while going to the CPV Division in Patiala House, New Delhi.

Applicants can also submit these documents at the nearest Passport Office. There is an instruction page to guide the applicant through the application page.   

Conclusion

The Indian Identity Certificate (IIC) is a distinctive document in India, specifically tailored for Tibetan Refugees and Stateless individuals. Unlike common identification like Aadhaar or Voter ID, its purpose and audience are niche.   

With a typical validity of 10 years, the IIC assists its holders in making their identity authentic. This is often pivotal in their lives.   Whether applying through traditional methods or online, the process is streamlined.   

As a symbol of its importance, the IIC boasts a distinctive yellow cover adorned with the Emblem of India.  In a country with diverse identification means, the IIC remains a testament to India’s commitment to serving all its residents. 

This content has been reviewed

The content on this page has undergone a thorough review by Rency C D, ensuring its accuracy, relevance, and quality. It’s important to always check with relevant authorities as entry policies can change.

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