What is Domicile Certificate, Required Document, Eligibility, How to Apply & Download Online

A domicile certificate obtained from a state government legally recognises a person's permanent location within that state or union territory jurisdiction. It certifies that the person has lived in a designated area for a duration of time as set forth by the state.

A domicile certificate is a requirement for admission to educational institutions, employment and even in applying loans, such as a Loan Against Property.

Let us learn its meaning, usage, eligibility, application procedure, and how to download a domicile certificate online.

What is a Domicile Certificate?

A domicile certificate is an important document which confirms the permanent residence of a person in a particular Indian state or union territory. This certificate is provided by the state revenue department or concerned authorities like District Magistrates (DM) or revenue department officials. This document is of huge significance in determining eligibility for local benefits like educational reservations, government appointments or economic schemes. The domicile certificate proves that the applicant has resided in the state for some period of time.

Types of Domicile Certificates

Domicile status is classified based on how and when an individual establishes permanent residence. The three recognised types are based on birth, voluntary choice, or legal dependency.

Domicile by Birth

Released upon birth in a state where he or she is continuously living, thereby becoming an automatic permanent resident of the state.

Domicile by Choice

This refers to a situation when a person subsequently becomes a permanent resident of another state after having lived there for a certain period of time, as prescribed by state laws.

Domicile of Dependence

Granted to minors or dependents whose lawful residence is subject to that of the parents or legal guardians in the said state.

Also Read: Commencement Certificate: Definition, Advantages, and Importance

Features and Benefits

A domicile certificate has a number of legal, educational, and financial benefits, especially while dealing with state-specific opportunities and services.

• Serves as valid evidence of permanent residence in a state.
• Used while applying for state government jobs.
• Required while availing education quotas in local schools.
• Used while buying, selling, or transferring property.
• Useful document when applying for a Loan Against Property.
• Facilitates access to different government schemes and subsidies.
• Necessary for getting the benefits of reservation in competitive exams.
• Facilitates admission to state-government educational institutions.

Eligibility Criteria

The applicant needs to fulfil minimum state-specific criteria to be eligible for a domicile certificate, mainly on the basis of residence and legal status.

• Must have lived in the state for a specified number of years.
• Should own or rent a residential property in the state.
• Parents or guardians must be permanent residents.
• Must not possess a domicile certificate from any other state.

Also Read: Encumbrance Certificate: Meaning and Its Importance

Documents Required

The applicant should provide valid documents to attest identity, residence and continuous stay in the concerned state or union territory.

• Aadhaar card, PAN card, Ration card or Voter ID.
• Address documents like electricity bills or rent agreements.
• School leaving certificate or birth certificate.
• Recent passport-size photograph.
• Application form along with self-declaration.
• Document of long-term residence in the state.

How to Apply for a Domicile Certificate Online and Offline?

You can apply for a domicile certificate either by visiting the official state portal or your nearby government office for offline submission.

Apply Online

• Go to your state's official e-District portal.
• Register or log in with your details.
• Choose the domicile certificate online application option.
• Fill out the application form and provide the required documents.
• Submit the form and make a note of the reference number.
• Monitor the status by application number.

Apply Offline

• Visit the local Tehsildar's office or Revenue Department office.
• Pick up and fill out the domicile certificate application form.
• Paste all self-attested documents wherever required.
• Submit an application with a passport-size photograph.
• Take an acknowledgement slip on submission.
• Follow-up in the office to collect the certificate, as it will take 7 to 15 days, depending on the state of your residence.

Also Read: What is Possession Certificate and How To Get It?

How to Download a Domicile Certificate Online?

Once the application is approved, the applicant can download the domicile certificate from the e-District portal of their respective state.

• Log into the authentic e-District portal of your respective state.
• Click on the "Track Application" or "Download Domicile Certificate" section of the website.
• Input your application/reference number appropriately, and the e-certificate will appear on your screen.
• Click on the download link to save it in PDF format.

The Importance of Domicile Certificate in Loan Against Property

A domicile certificate is important to prove residency when you apply for a Loan Against Property with any bank or financial institution.

• It confirms permanent residency of an applicant in the state of concern.
• It establishes local credibility for legal and financial assessment.
• A domicile certificate will verify the ownership of the property and jurisdiction.
• It speeds up the process of loan sanction by proving local ties.
• It helps lenders assess eligibility using location-based indicators and legal criteria.

How to Apply for a Loan Against Property?

You can apply for a Loan Against Property online with Hero FinCorp after reviewing your eligibility criteria. Before applying, have the required documents, including the domicile certificate, ready. You can also calculate your EMI and choose a repayment tenure using the online Loan Against Property EMI Calculator.

Conclusion

A domicile certificate is required to prove your permanent residence in a particular Indian state. It enables access to state-specific benefits like jobs, education, and financial services such as a Loan Against Property. With easy online and offline facilities, you can easily apply for a domicile certificate and download it online after approval by the authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to get a domicile certificate immediately?

You can go to the local Tehsildar's office and apply with urgent documentation. Some states have Tatkal systems that provide either same day or 2-day delivery.

2. Who issues a domicile certificate?

The domicile certificate is issued by the respective Revenue Department or District Magistrate office of the respective state.

3. How much time does it take to get a domicile certificate?

Generally, it takes between 7 to 15 working days. Some states offer faster services under special schemes.

4. What else can be used as a domicile certificate?

A ration card or voter ID with long-term residency may be accepted in certain cases, but these may not replace the official domicile certificate.

5. What is the validity of a domicile certificate?

Most domicile certificates are valid for life but it depends on the change in residence or state laws. Some domicile certificates may require periodic review and renewal.

6. How to Check Domicile Certificate Application Status?

From the respective state's e-district portal, navigate to track application status and enter your application number. The portal allows real time tracking of status.

7. Is a domicile certificate required for the NEET exam?

Yes, many states may require domicile certificates for state quota NEET seats. This is to confirm the applicants eligibility under local quotas.

8. Are domicile and residence certificates the same?

No, both certificates provide proof of residence. A domicile certificate confirms the holder's permanent residence, whereas a residence certificate indicates temporary residence.

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