How to Get Domicile Certificate Online ā Step-by-Step Guide
Complete guide to apply for domicile certificate online. Documents required, state-wise process, eligibility, and processing time.
Official Links
What is a Domicile Certificate?
A Domicile Certificate (Nivas Praman Patra / Residential Certificate) is an official document issued by the state government that certifies you are a permanent resident of a particular state. It proves your domicile status for education, employment, and government benefits.
Why Do You Need It?
- State quota admission in educational institutions
- State government job applications
- Scholarship applications restricted to state residents
- Property purchase in certain states
- Various government schemes limited to state residents
- Competitive exam reservations based on state domicile
Who is Eligible?
- Any person who has been a permanent resident of the state
- Residency requirements vary by state:
- Some states: Born in the state or 15+ years of continuous residence
- Some states: 10+ years of residence
- Some states: Parent's domicile is sufficient
- Must have proof of residence in the state
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Birth Certificate (proves place of birth)
- Class 10 / 12 Marksheet (if school was in the state)
- Proof of Address (Voter ID, ration card, utility bill, property documents)
- Ration Card (family details with state address)
- Parent's domicile certificate (if available ā simplifies process)
- Affidavit / Self-declaration on stamp paper
- Passport-size photographs (2-3)
Born in the state? Birth certificate + school records usually suffice. Migrant? Need proof of continuous residence (utility bills, rent agreements over multiple years).
Step-by-Step Process ā Online
Step 1: Visit Your State e-District Portal
- Uttar Pradesh: edistrict.up.gov.in
- Bihar: serviceonline.bihar.gov.in
- Delhi: edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in
- Maharashtra: aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in
- Rajasthan: emitra.rajasthan.gov.in
- Madhya Pradesh: mpedistrict.gov.in
- Other states: Search "[your state] domicile certificate apply online"
Step 2: Register / Login
Create account with mobile number and Aadhaar OTP.
Step 3: Select "Domicile Certificate"
Navigate to Certificate Services ā Domicile / Nivas Praman Patra / Residential Certificate
Step 4: Fill Application Form
- Personal details
- Parent details
- Residence history (how long you've lived in the state)
- Current and permanent address
- Purpose of certificate
Step 5: Upload Documents
- Aadhaar
- Birth certificate
- Educational certificates
- Address proof
- Affidavit
- Photograph
Step 6: Pay Fee and Submit
Pay fee online. Note reference number.
Step 7: Verification
- Tehsildar/SDM office verifies residence claims
- May involve local body certification (Gram Panchayat / Municipal Corporation)
- Police verification in some cases
Step 8: Certificate Issued
Download from portal or collect from Tehsil office.
Offline Process
- Visit Tehsil / SDM / Collector Office
- Collect domicile certificate application form
- Fill and attach all documents + affidavit
- Get local body verification (Gram Pradhan / Corporator letter ā some states)
- Submit at counter with fee
- Verification by revenue officer
- Certificate issued
Fees
| State | Fee |
|---|---|
| Most states | ā¹10 - ā¹100 |
| Some states | Free |
| Via CSC | ā¹30 - ā¹100 |
Processing Time
- Online: 7-21 working days
- Offline: 15-30 working days
- With parent's domicile certificate: Faster (7-10 days)
Validity
- Most states: Lifetime (once issued, valid permanently)
- Some states: 3-5 years
- Always verify with the institution requesting it
Special Cases
Students Born Outside the State
If you were born elsewhere but have lived in the state for the required duration:
- Provide continuous residence proof (rent agreements, school transfer certificates, utility bills)
- Affidavit from two local witnesses
- Local body verification may be needed
Government Employee's Children (Transferable Jobs)
- Parent's posting order showing residence in the state
- School transfer certificates
- Affidavit
Important Tips
- Apply early ā Don't wait until exam/admission deadlines
- Parent's domicile certificate speeds up the process significantly
- School records matter ā If you studied in the state, marksheets are strong proof
- Keep affidavit on proper stamp paper ā Incorrect denomination can cause rejection
- Digital certificates from e-District portals are legally valid
FAQs
Q: Can I apply for domicile certificate online? A: Yes, through your state's e-District portal. Most states have online application systems.
Q: How long does it take to get domicile certificate? A: 7-21 days online, 15-30 days offline. Having parent's domicile speeds it up.
Q: Is domicile certificate valid for a lifetime? A: In most states, yes. Some states issue it with a specific validity period. Check with your state.
Q: Can I get domicile certificate of a state where I was not born? A: Yes, if you have been a continuous resident for the required period (usually 10-15 years). You'll need extensive residence proof.
Q: What is the difference between domicile and residential certificate? A: They are often the same document. Some states use "domicile" and others use "residential certificate" or "nivas praman patra." The purpose is identical ā proving state residency.
Q: Do I need domicile certificate for central government jobs? A: Generally no. Domicile is primarily needed for state government jobs and state-quota admissions. Some central posts in specific regions may require it.