Guide to obtaining an Emergency Certificate (EC) for NRIs

In certain situations, Indian nationals abroad may find themselves in urgent need of returning to India without a valid passport. This is where the Emergency Certificate (EC) comes into play. The EC is a one-way travel document issued to facilitate the immediate return of Indian nationals to India. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of obtaining an EC, ensuring a clear understanding of its purpose, eligibility, application process, required documents, fees, and processing time.

What is an Emergency Certificate (EC)?

An Emergency Certificate (EC) is a one-way travel document issued to Indian citizens who need to return to India under specific circumstances. It is designed to facilitate travel in emergencies when a new passport cannot be issued. An Emergency Certificate is not a substitute for a passport; rather, it serves as a temporary measure to facilitate the individual's return to India under pressing circumstances. The EC ensures that Indian nationals are not stranded abroad without the means to travel home, especially in situations where obtaining a new passport is not feasible. This document is issued with the primary aim of safeguarding the individual's immediate travel needs, allowing them to return to their home country to resolve their issues.

Eligibility for an Emergency Certificate:

Conditions for Issuance of an Emergency Certificate:

The issuance of an EC is contingent upon the following conditions:

1. Refused Passport: An individual who has been denied a new passport is eligible for an EC. This could be due to various administrative reasons or failure to meet certain passport issuance criteria.
2. Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport: If an individual's passport has been lost, stolen, or damaged, rendering them without a valid travel document, they qualify for an EC. This ensures that individuals can return to India even when their passport is no longer available.
3. Impounded/Revoked Passport: Passports may be impounded or revoked for various legal reasons. Individuals in this situation can be issued an EC to facilitate their return to India.
4. Expired Passport and No Legal Visa Status: When an Indian national’s passport has expired and they do not have a valid or legal visa status to reside in the USA, an EC becomes essential. This situation often leaves individuals without any lawful means to remain in the country, necessitating immediate return to India.
5. Deportation Orders: Individuals under orders of deportation by US authorities and who do not possess a valid travel document to return to India are eligible for an EC. In such cases, the application for an EC is typically processed through US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Application Process for an Emergency Certificate:

1. Complete Online Application: Visit https://portal4.passportindia.gov.in/Online/index.html  and fill out the online application with your current passport details.

2. Service Desired: Select "Re-Issue Passport" in the 'service desired' box.

3. Submit Application: Submit the completed application online to receive an auto-generated appointment date.

4. Pay Fees: Pay the applicable fees online.

5. Print Application: Print the filled application form.

6. Attach Required Documents: Gather and attach the necessary documents to the printed application form.

7. Consulate Appointment: Bring the application form and attached documents to the Indian Consulate on the scheduled appointment date.

Required Documents for an Emergency Certificate:

To ensure a complete and valid application, the following documents are required:

1. Photocopy of the passport page with visa (H1B, H4, etc.) and I94
2. Clear photocopy of the green card
3. Employment Authorization Document (Work Permit)
4. Copy of I797, I140, or I20 (with a handwritten note if approval is pending)
5. Proof of current US residence (e.g., driver's license, utility bill, lease agreement)
6. Filled Personal Verification Form (two copies)
7. Notarized affidavit if the lost passport expired over six months ago
8. Notarized affidavit from two Indian passport holders with US residential status
9. Notarized affidavit for applicants without legal status in the USA
10. Original police report for the lost passport
11. A letter to the Consulate explaining the circumstances of the loss and the need for an EC

Fees for an Emergency Certificate:

The application fee for an EC is nonrefundable and amounts to $17.00 ($15 as the fee and $2 as a contribution to the Indian Community Welfare Fund). 

NOTE: It is important to note that there is no mail-back service available for ECs, and they must be collected in person.

Processing Time for an Emergency Certificate:

The issuance of an EC is subject to the confirmation of the applicant's passport particulars and Indian nationality. If these details are confirmed at the level of the Embassy, the EC will be issued within ten working days. 

However, if confirmation is required from authorities in India, the process may take longer, as the request must be referred back to the relevant Indian authorities for clearance.

Special Considerations for Deportation Cases:

For individuals under deportation orders, the EC application must be submitted through the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The EC will be delivered directly to the agency concerned and not to any agent or third party, ensuring a secure and verified process.

Conclusion:

The Emergency Certificate (EC) is an essential document for Indian nationals in urgent need of returning to India without a valid passport. For personalized assistance and support in applying for an EC, consider reaching out to our services on Documitra to ensure a hassle-free experience.