1. What countries offer citizenship for India passport holders by investment programs?

There are several countries that offer citizenship for India passport holders through investment programs, including:

1. Grenada
2. St. Kitts and Nevis
3. Antigua and Barbuda
4. Dominica
5. St. Lucia
6. Cyprus
7. Malta
8. Turkey
9. Vanuatu
10.Isle of Man (British Overseas Territory)

2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in India?

Yes, dual citizenship can be obtained in India under certain circumstances. India currently allows for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) status, both of which confer some benefits and rights similar to citizenship, but not full citizenship.

Persons of Indian origin who are citizens of other countries can apply for an OCI card, which grants them multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India. This does not grant them full citizenship, but they are allowed to live and work in India indefinitely. However, those who obtain OCI status cannot vote, hold public office or buy agricultural or plantation properties.

In certain circumstances, such as if a person is married to an Indian citizen or has roots tracing back to India, a person may also be eligible for dual citizenship with full rights and privileges. A bill was introduced in 2019 that would extend this possibility to more categories of people such as Persons of Indian origin (PIOs), but it has not yet been passed into law.

Additionally, some countries allow for dual citizenship with India through mutual agreements. For example, the United States allows for dual citizenship with India. In these cases, individuals may hold both Indian and foreign passports without any restrictions or limitations on their rights and privileges in either country.

It is important to note that according to the Government of India’s Citizenship Act of 1955, being a citizen of another country/holding a foreign passport automatically revokes an individual’s Indian citizenship unless they have applied for prior permission from the Government to retain it.

Overall, while obtaining dual citizenship in India is possible under certain circumstances, it is important for individuals to thoroughly research and understand their eligibility and potential limitations before making any decisions or applying for OCI/PIO status.

3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in India?

The process for obtaining a second passport in India can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks to several months, depending on various factors such as the individual’s background and the urgency of the request. The steps involved include completing an application form, submitting supporting documents, and attending an interview at the regional passport office. Additional time may also be required for background checks and verification processes.

4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in India?

Yes, there are language and residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in India. To apply for a second passport, an individual must be a resident of India and have fluency in either Hindi or English. Additionally, the applicant must prove that they have a genuine need for a second passport, such as frequent travel for business purposes or rejection of their original passport by another country.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in India?

The cost of obtaining a second passport in India can vary depending on the purpose of obtaining the passport and other factors such as fees for processing, biometric information, and courier charges. Generally, the average cost for obtaining a second passport is around Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,500. This may vary if additional services like expedited processing or Tatkaal (urgent) service are required. It is recommended to check with the nearest passport office or online portal for specific pricing and requirements.

6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in India?

No, only the main applicant can obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in India. Spouses and children can be included in the application and receive citizenship, but they will not have their own separate passport.

7. Does India allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?

No, India does not allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport. All travelers, including those with dual citizenship, are required to have a valid Indian visa in order to enter the country.

8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in India?

Citizens with two passports in India are not subject to any special taxation system. They are treated the same as any other citizen for tax purposes.

In India, all citizens are subject to a personal income tax which is levied on their annual income from all sources. This includes income from salary, investments, property, and business. The taxation rates and brackets may differ for individuals based on their income levels and age.

Additionally, Indian citizens are also required to pay taxes on goods and services through indirect taxes such as Value Added Tax (VAT), Goods and Services Tax (GST), and customs duties.

The tax laws in India apply to all citizens regardless of their passport status or citizenship in any other country. Therefore, if an individual holds multiple passports but is considered a resident of India for tax purposes, they will be subject to the same tax laws as any other resident.

However, it is important for citizens with dual citizenship to consult with a tax advisor or the Income Tax Department in India to understand their specific tax obligations and any possible implications for holding multiple passports.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in India?

There are no specific restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in India. However, there are certain conditions and eligibility requirements that must be met in order to apply for Indian citizenship through investment, such as:

1. Minimum investment: The minimum investment amount for individuals is approximately 130 million rupees (USD 2 million) and varies depending on the type of investment.

2. Eligible investments: Investments made in certain sectors such as real estate, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and infrastructure development may be considered for citizenship.

3. Continuous ownership: The investment must be held continuously for a minimum period of five years after obtaining citizenship.

4. Employment generation: The investment must also create employment opportunities for at least ten Indian citizens in each financial year.

5. Residence requirement: Applicants must have resided in India for at least 12 months immediately before applying for citizenship through investment.

It is important to note that final approval for Indian citizenship is subject to the discretion of the Ministry of Home Affairs and there is no guarantee that an application will be approved solely based on investment. Additionally, dual citizenship is not permitted in India so applicants must renounce their current citizenship before being granted Indian citizenship.

10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in India?

Yes, individuals can apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in India. The Indian government allows its citizens to hold more than one valid passport under certain circumstances, such as professional or travel needs. However, the individual must disclose their other passports and provide a valid reason for needing a second one. They also have to surrender one of the passports when traveling out of India.

11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in India?

Yes, citizens of certain countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan are restricted from applying for a second passport in India. This restriction is imposed by the Indian government due to security reasons. Other factors that may affect eligibility for a second passport include an individual’s criminal record or involvement in any ongoing legal proceedings. It is best to check with the Indian embassy or consulates in your country for specific eligibility requirements.

12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from India, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?

Having a second passport from India can potentially provide access to business opportunities and educational opportunities within the country. It can also provide access to healthcare systems and other social services. Furthermore, it can allow for easier travel and visa-free entry to certain countries, as well as potential tax benefits for dual citizens.

13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in India?

There is no specific age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in India. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old and legally competent to make the investment and fulfill the other eligibility criteria of the program.

14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from India?

1. Determine your eligibility: Before starting the process, it is important to determine if you are eligible for a second passport from India. According to Indian laws, individuals who are already holding a valid Indian passport can apply for a second passport in limited circumstances, such as frequent travel or business commitments.

2. Gather required documents: The next step is to gather all the necessary documents for your application. This may include your current passport, birth certificate, proof of residence, and any other supporting documents specified by the Indian embassy or consulate.

3. Visit the CKGS website: CKGS, also known as Cox & Kings Global Services, manages visa and passport services for the Indian government in certain countries. You will need to visit their website to start your application process.

4. Register on the website: If you are using CKGS services for the first time, you will need to register as a new user on their website. This will allow you to access the online application form and track your application.

5. Complete the application form: Fill out the online application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Make sure to review all details carefully before submitting the form.

6.Create an account with Passport Seva Portal (PSP)- After completing your application at CKGS’ website, register at PSP (https://www.passportindia.gov.in/nri) and proceed further.

7.Choose your jurisdiction- Here you must choose one of over a dozen jurisdictions (“Passport Offices”) around India where you plan on collecting your document once it has been issued.

8.Pay fees: Once your application is submitted, you will need to pay the applicable fees via credit/debit card or bank transfer. The fee amount will vary depending on your jurisdiction and type of passport requested.

9.Schedule an appointment: After payment is made, schedule an appointment at one of the designated VFS centres or Indian embassy/consulate where biometric information will be collected for your new passport.

10. Visit the designated centre: On the day of your appointment, visit the designated centre with all required documents and biometric information to complete the application process.

11.Track your application: You can track the status of your application on CKGS’ website or PSP portal using the reference number provided during your application submission.

12. Collect your second passport: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive an email notification to collect your second passport from the designated centre. You will need to present an original receipt and a valid ID proof at the time of collection.

13. Renewal of Second Passport (valid for 10 years): After receiving a second passport which is valid between 2-3 year it is important to keep a watch on its expiry. You can apply for renewal when around six months remain for its expiration date by visiting CKGS website and paying requisite fees as explained in instruction #7 above.

14. Contact Indian embassy/consulate: If you encounter any issues during the application process or have specific questions, you may contact the nearest Indian embassy/consulate for further assistance.

15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in India?

Yes, naturalized citizens can also apply for a second passport in India. The requirements and process are the same as for all other Indian citizens.

16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in India?

Yes, proof of financial stability is usually required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in India. This can include documents such as bank statements, proof of investment funds, and other financial documents to demonstrate that the applicant has enough resources to support themselves and their dependents. The specific requirements may vary depending on the investor program being applied for.

17. Are there any special regulations or requirements for individuals who have had previous legal issues seeking a second passport in India?

Yes, the Indian government may reject an individual’s application for a second passport if they have had previous legal issues such as criminal convictions or pending cases. The decision to grant a second passport is at the discretion of the authorities and will be based on various factors such as the severity of the offense and the reason for obtaining a second passport. Applicants will need to provide full disclosure of any past legal issues and may also need to provide documents such as court orders or police clearance certificates.

18. Does possessing dual citizenship of India pose any complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries?

Yes, possessing dual citizenship of India can pose complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries. This is because each country has its own laws and regulations regarding dual citizenship, and some countries may not recognize or allow dual citizenship. This could lead to difficulties in obtaining visas or entry into certain countries. It is important to check the specific requirements and regulations of both countries before traveling.

19.Is it possible to transfer my current residency status to my new country if I obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in India?

It is not guaranteed that you will be able to transfer your current residency status to a new country if you obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in India. Each country has its own immigration policies and procedures, and it is at the discretion of the new country’s government to grant you residency based on your dual citizenship. It is important to thoroughly research the immigration laws of the new country before making any decisions regarding obtaining dual citizenship.

20.Can citizens of other countries living and working in India also apply for a second passport?

Yes, citizens of other countries living and working in India may also be eligible to apply for a second passport. The eligibility criteria and application process may vary depending on the country of origin and visa status of the individual. It is recommended to consult with the relevant authorities or an immigration lawyer for further information.