How to Apply for Indian Citizenship for Your US-Born Baby: A Step-by-Step Guide Amid Changes to Birthright Citizenship Rules

Understand how to secure Indian citizenship for your child born in the US as birthright citizenship faces new restrictions for temporary visa holders.

Generated by Dall-E prompted by Vamshi Vangapally

If your baby is born in the US and you and your spouse are Indian citizens, your baby is eligible to apply for Indian citizenship by descent under Section 4(1) of the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Indian citizenship for your baby

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting the application process, ensure you have the following documents:

1. Baby’s US Birth Certificate
   (This must be apostilled by the US Department of State or authenticated by the relevant authorities.)
2. Parents’ Indian Passports
   (Scanned copies of all pages, including the personal details page and visa/immigration pages.)
3. Parents’ Marriage Certificate
   (If applicable, to establish parentage.)
4. Parents’ Address Proof
   (Valid documents like Aadhaar card, Indian utility bill, or bank statement.)
5. Baby’s Passport (if issued)
   (Scanned copy of the US passport, if available.)
6. Affidavit of No Other Citizenship
   (A declaration stating the baby holds no other citizenship except for the parents’ intent to claim Indian citizenship by descent.)
7. Photographs of the Baby
   (Passport-size photos in Indian passport specifications, usually 2x2 inches with a white background.)

Step 2: Online Application

1. Visit the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs website or the Indian Consulate/Embassy website where you intend to apply.
   Website: https://indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in
2. Navigate to the Citizenship by Descent section and complete the application form.
3. Upload scanned copies of the required documents during the application process.
4. Pay the required application fee (as specified by the consulate or ministry).
5. Submit the form and print a copy of the submitted application.

Step 3: Visit the Indian Consulate or Embassy

1. Schedule an appointment with the Indian Consulate/Embassy nearest to your location.
2. Take the printed application, original documents, and photocopies of all the documents submitted online.
3. Attend the appointment, where:

• The documents will be verified.
• You may need to sign an undertaking or affidavit.
• Provide any additional information requested by the consulate.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

1. The consulate will process the application and forward it to the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs for approval.
2. Processing time may vary, typically taking 4–8 weeks. Check the consulate’s website for updates.

Step 5: Obtain the Citizenship Certificate

Once approved:

1. The consulate will issue an Indian Citizenship Certificate for your baby.
2. You can then apply for the baby’s Indian passport at the same consulate.

Important Notes:

1. Indian law does not permit dual citizenship. If you wish to retain Indian citizenship for your child, ensure that US citizenship is renounced later if applicable.
2. Ensure all documents are translated into English if required and notarized.
3. Contact the Indian Embassy/Consulate for the latest updates or additional requirements.

List of Indian Consulates and the Embassy in the United States:

Embassy of India

• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Address: 2107 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Phone: +1 (202) 939–7000
• Website: www.indianembassyusa.gov.in

Consulate General of India

New York

• Address: 3 East 64th Street, New York, NY 10065
• Phone: +1 (212) 774–0600
• Website: www.indiainnewyork.gov.in

San Francisco

• Address: 540 Arguello Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94118
• Phone: +1 (415) 668–0662
• Website: www.cgisf.gov.in

Chicago

• Address: 455 North Cityfront Plaza Drive, Suite 850, NBC Tower, Chicago, IL 60611
• Phone: +1 (312) 595–0405
• Website: www.cgichicago.gov.in

Houston

• Address: 4300 Scotland Street, Houston, TX 77007
• Phone: +1 (713) 626–2148
• Website: www.cgihouston.gov.in

Atlanta

• Address: 5549 Glenridge Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30342
• Phone: +1 (404) 963–5902
• Website: www.cgihouston.gov.in/atlanta

Notes:

• Consulates serve specific jurisdictions. You should contact the consulate that oversees the state you live in.
• Check their websites for details on services, appointments, and application processes.

Disclaimer

This post is accurate as of January 2025 and is based on information collected from publicly available sources on the internet. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, there may be mistakes or outdated details. This content is intended for informational purposes only. Policies, procedures, and requirements may change over time. Individuals are strongly advised to consult the respective Indian consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date and reliable information. Additionally, if you have specific questions, unique circumstances, or legal concerns, please consult a qualified immigration attorney or professional for personalized guidance.