What happens if an Indian citizen voluntarily becomes a citizen of another country?

The correct answer is Their Indian citizenship ends automatically.

Key Points

• As per the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955, Indian citizenship is automatically terminated when an Indian citizen voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country.
• India follows the principle of single citizenship, meaning that dual citizenship is not allowed under Indian law.
• An individual acquiring foreign citizenship must surrender their Indian passport as it becomes invalid after acquiring foreign nationality.
• The government of India issues an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to eligible individuals of Indian origin, which provides certain privileges but is not equivalent to dual citizenship.
• Section 9(1) of the Indian Citizenship Act explicitly states that Indian citizenship ceases automatically upon acquiring foreign citizenship voluntarily.

Additional Information

• Indian Citizenship Act, 1955
  • This act governs the acquisition, termination, and supplementary provisions of Indian citizenship.
  • It provides five modes of acquiring citizenship: by birth, descent, registration, naturalization, and incorporation of territory.
  • It also lays down the grounds for the termination and deprivation of citizenship under specific conditions.
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card
  • The OCI card is issued to foreign nationals of Indian origin, allowing them to visit, live, or work in India indefinitely.
  • It is not equivalent to Indian citizenship, and OCI cardholders cannot vote, hold government office, or purchase agricultural land in India.
  • The scheme was introduced in 2005 to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora.
• Dual Citizenship
  • Dual citizenship refers to a situation where an individual is a legal citizen of two countries simultaneously.
  • India does not allow dual citizenship; instead, it provides the OCI card as an alternative for individuals of Indian origin.
• Surrender Certificate
  • Indian citizens who acquire foreign nationality must obtain a surrender certificate for their Indian passport.
  • This certificate is required for availing of consular services and applying for an OCI card.