The Indian Identity Certificate (IIC) is a crucial document for Tibetan Refugees and Stateless individuals in India, distinct from Aadhaar or Voter ID, and tailored for a specific demographic. 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).
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. 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.
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 of the Indian Identity Certificates comes in a yellow cover that has gold-colored letters on it. In the middle of the front cover, there’s the Emblem of India. This booklet typically has 36 pages. The online application process starts with registering on the Passport Seva Online Portal, followed by submitting a properly filled application form either in person or through the portal.
