Friends, India is famous all over the world for its culture, prosperity, history, people of different communities and castes live together in harmony in India. In neighboring countries, many people face religious persecution and violence, due to which millions of people are forced to take refuge in India for years. To overcome their plight, the central government implemented the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). If you are a refugee or want Indian citizenship, then know about how to apply for Indian citizenship and the necessary eligibility criteria here-

Citizenship for refugees under CAA

Refugees from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, who belong to non-Muslim communities (Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians), can now apply for Indian citizenship more easily.

The minimum residence period to apply for these applicants has been reduced from 11 years to 5 years.

The citizenship process is governed by the Citizenship Act of 1955, which has been amended several times, including the CAA.

Who is considered a citizen of India?

Any person born in India after 26 January 1950 is automatically considered a citizen of India.

A person born after 1 July 1987 is a citizen if one of his/her parents was a citizen of India at the time of birth.

Foreign nationals (who do not fall under the CAA) can also apply for Indian citizenship if they have been living in India for at least 11 years.

How to apply for Indian citizenship?

Eligible applicants can apply online through the official website: indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in.

Applications can also be submitted through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) portal.

Applicants must provide documents proving their eligibility, reasons for seeking citizenship (such as persecution in their home country) and details of their stay in India.