Domicile Certificate in West Bengal: Uses, Eligibility & Application Process

In West Bengal, a domicile certificate is a mandatory document required as proof of permanent residence.

Individuals yet to apply for a domicile certificate in West Bengal should keep reading to learn about its uses, eligibility, and application process.

What Is a Domicile Certificate in West Bengal?

In West Bengal, a domicile certificate serves as evidence of residence and provides several benefits. Further, the State Government issues it within 7 days of application.

What Are the Uses of a Domicile Certificate in West Bengal?

An individual can use a domicile certificate for the following purposes in West Bengal. They are as follows:

A domicile certificate is mandatory while taking admission to educational institutions.
It is required for Government-sponsored scholarships.
Individuals applying for Government jobs must submit this certificate for quota preference.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Domicile Certificate in West Bengal?

Individuals must meet the following eligibility parameters to apply for a domicile certificate in West Bengal.

Applicants should be permanent residents (at least 15 years) and own a permanent property (house) in West Bengal.
Individuals who do not reside in West Bengal but own a permanent property in the State can apply for a residence certificate.
Women who are not permanent residents of the State but married a person who is a permanent resident of West Bengal are eligible for application.

How to Apply for Domicile Certificate in West Bengal?

West Bengal Government provides online and offline processes to apply for a domicile certificate.

1. Steps to Apply for Domicile Certificate Online in West Bengal

Step 1: Visit the West Bengal eDistrict website

Step 2: Register or sign up on the e-District portal.

Note: In case you are already registered, log in with your credentials

Step 3: Choose the ‘Local Residence (Domicile) Certificate’ option from the list given

You will be redirected to a comprehensive instructions page. Go through the terms carefully before proceeding further with your application process.

Step 4: Click on the ‘Apply’ option

You will be redirected to the application form

Step 5: Fill up with accurate information, attach a scanned copy of all necessary documents mentioned and select the ‘Submit’ option

2. Steps to Apply for Domicile Certificate Offline in West Bengal

Applicants can also collect the application form from the following offices.

Tahsildar’s office
Sub-divisional office
Revenue Department office
District office

Alternatively, they can get the form from any other State Government office, their nearest Citizen Kiosk, or Common Service Centres (CSC).

Nonetheless, the State Government does not charge any fee for a domicile certificate in West Bengal.

What Are the Documents Required for Domicile Certificate in West Bengal?

Eligible applicants must submit the list of documents given below along with a duly signed application form.

Aadhaar card
Age proof

School certificate of class 10

Birth certificate

Residence proof

Ration card

Driving licence

Evidence of a property owned by the applicant
2 passport size photographs

Frequently Asked Questions

✓ What is the validity period of a domicile certificate in West Bengal?

Domicile certificate in West Bengal comes with a life-long validity and thus does not require renewal.

✓ How can I check the status of a domicile certificate in West Bengal?

Individuals can track their domicile certificate application status in 3-steps-

Step 1: Visit West Bengal eDistrict portal and log in with credentials

Step 2: Click on the ‘Track Application’ option

Step 3: Provide a 16-digit Identification Number on the field given

The status will appear on the screen. Alternatively, individuals can send SMS to 51969 or 166 in this format- WB edist 16 Digit AIN

✓ How to download a domicile certificate in West Bengal?

Applicants can download their domicile certificates in 3-steps.

Step 1: Visit the West Bengal eDistrict website.

Step 2: Scroll to the ‘Approved Application’ option on the home page and click on it.

Step 3: Choose a service as per from the list and click on the ‘Certificate’ tab.

The certificate will open on the screen, and one can download and take a printout of it.