If you have recently become an Australian citizen — or a citizen of another country — and previously held an Indian passport, you must renounce your Indian citizenship and surrender your Indian passport. This is a legal requirement because India does not allow dual citizenship.
You can maintain strong ties with India through the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, but you must first complete the renunciation and surrender process.
See my YouTube video here for a step-by-step visual guide.
Understanding Renunciation vs Passport Surrender
Many people confuse the two, but they are separate formalities:
- Renunciation of Indian Citizenship – The legal process of giving up Indian citizenship after acquiring foreign nationality.
- Surrender of Indian Passport – Officially cancelling your Indian passport, which becomes invalid the day you acquire foreign citizenship.
Both steps are mandatory and, in most cases, can be completed together through VFS Global in Australia.
Documents Required to Surrender an Indian Passport in Australia
When applying via VFS Global Australia, you will typically need:
- Completed Surrender of Indian Passport Application form
- Form XXII – Renunciation of Indian Citizenship declaration
- Copy of your Australian Citizenship Certificate
- Original Indian passport
- One passport-sized photo (2×2 inches)
- Copy of your new foreign passport
- Signed VFS Global checklist
Step-by-Step Guide to Surrender Your Indian Passport in Australia
1. Fill Out the Online Surrender Application
- Visit the Indian Embassy website
- Select “Surrender of Indian Passport”
- Enter your Indian passport details, your new nationality, and date of acquiring citizenship
- Add personal and family details
- Submit and download your completed application
2. Complete Form XXII for Renunciation of Citizenship
This form requires:
- Full name and current address (Australian address is acceptable)
- Indian passport number and date of issue
- Permanent address in India
- Profession and nationality
- Parents’ names and nationalities
3. Fill Out the VFS Global Checklist
The checklist varies slightly depending on whether you submit in person or by post. Always download the latest version from the VFS Global website before applying. Ensure to tick the documents you have already completed.
How to Submit Your Application
You have two options in Australia:
| Method | Details |
| In Person | Book an appointment or walk in (walk-ins may involve long waits — my experience was over 2 hours). |
| By Post | Send all documents, checklist, and your Indian passport to the VFS Global PO Box. |
Once submitted, you will receive a reference number.
Fees for Passport Surrender & Renunciation in Australia
As per my experience:
- Approx. $217 – $270 AUD for renunciation + passport surrender
- Additional postage costs apply if submitting by mail
After Your Application is Processed
You will receive:
- A Renunciation Certificate
- Your cancelled Indian passport, returned to you
- Written confirmation of your Indian citizenship renunciation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if I lost my Indian passport?
Submit a police report or statutory declaration and, if possible, a copy of any old passport. Additional fees may apply.
2. How long do I have to surrender my passport?
Ideally, within 3 months of acquiring new citizenship. Delays over 3 years may result in penalties.
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