If you’re an Indian citizen stranded in Australia without a valid passport—due to loss, theft, expiry, or damage—you may require an Emergency Certificate (EC) to return to India. The Consulate General of India (CGI), Sydney, along with other Indian missions in Australia, issues ECs under specific circumstances. This document serves as a temporary one-way travel permit. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, documents, and the step-by-step application process.
Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Document Name | Emergency Certificate (EC) |
| Purpose | One-way travel to India |
| Issued By | CGI Sydney / CGI Melbourne / HCI Canberra |
| Eligible For | Indian nationals without valid passport |
| Validity | Valid for a single journey to India only |
| Processing Time | 2–7 working days (urgent basis) |
| Submission Mode | In-person only (appointment required) |
When Should You Apply for an Emergency Certificate?
You should apply for an EC if:
- You lost your Indian passport
- Your passport has been stolen, damaged, or expired, and you urgently need to return to India
- You do not qualify for immediate passport re-issuance due to lack of documents or verification delays
- You are facing emergency situations like medical issues, family emergencies, or deportation
Note: The EC is not a replacement for a passport and cannot be used for return travel to Australia or other countries.
Step 1: Contact the Appropriate Indian Mission
Depending on your state of residence in Australia, reach out to the relevant Indian consulate:
- CGI Sydney – for residents in NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory
Website: https://www.cgisydney.gov.in - CGI Melbourne – for residents in VIC, SA, TAS
Website: https://www.cgimelbourne.gov.in - High Commission of India, Canberra – for ACT and other regions
Website: https://www.hcindia-au.org
Explain your situation via phone or email and request an emergency appointment.
Step 2: File a Police Report (If Passport Is Lost or Stolen)
- Visit the nearest Australian police station
- Lodge a Lost/Stolen Property Report
- Collect a copy of the report or the reference number
- This will be required by the Indian consulate for verification
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
You must carry both originals and photocopies (self-attested) of the following:
- Completed EC application form (available on the consulate website or at the office)
- Copy of the lost/damaged passport (if available)
- Police report (mandatory in case of loss/theft)
- Proof of Indian nationality (PAN card, Aadhaar card, Voter ID, birth certificate, etc.)
- Proof of residency in Australia (visa, Medicare, utility bill, lease agreement)
- 2 passport-sized photographs (2” x 2”, white background)
- Flight ticket (if already booked or proposed date of departure)
- Self-declaration explaining the need for EC
- Fees payment receipt (payable at consulate during appointment)
Step 4: Attend In-Person Appointment at the Consulate
Emergency Certificates are processed only after in-person identity verification. During the appointment:
- Submit all documents to the consular officer
- Provide biometric data (if required)
- Answer any follow-up questions or clarifications
The consulate may contact authorities in India for background verification if deemed necessary.
Step 5: Receive the Emergency Certificate
If your application is complete and verified, the Emergency Certificate is usually issued within:
- 2–3 working days in urgent/emergency cases
- Up to 7 working days if verification is required
The EC will include:
- Your full name and photograph
- Travel restriction: Valid only for a single journey to India
You must carry this document along with your flight ticket and visa/immigration clearance at the time of travel.
Fee Structure
| Service | Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Emergency Certificate Issuance | AUD 27 |
| VFS Service Charge (if applicable) | AUD 25–30 |
| Courier Fee (optional) | AUD 20 (if allowed) |
Fees may vary slightly depending on consulate and urgency.
Contact Information for Indian Missions
| Office | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consulate General of India, Sydney | Sydney, NSW | +61-2-6229-5300 | cgisydney.gov.in |
| Consulate General of India, Melbourne | Melbourne, VIC | +61-3-9682-5800 | cgimelbourne.gov.in |
| High Commission of India, Canberra | Canberra, ACT | +61-2-6273-3999 | hcindia-au.org |
FAQs
Q: Can I travel to countries other than India with the Emergency Certificate?
A: No. The EC is strictly valid for a one-way journey to India only.
Q: Can I return to Australia using the EC?
A: No. You’ll need a new passport to re-enter Australia.
Q: Can I apply for the EC by post?
A: No. Personal appearance is mandatory for identity verification.
Q: What if I don’t have any Indian ID proof?
A: You may be asked to provide additional affidavits or undergo further verification before an EC is issued.
Q: Is an Emergency Certificate accepted at all airports in India?
A: Yes, Indian immigration authorities accept valid ECs issued by Indian missions abroad.
Conclusion
The Emergency Certificate is a crucial lifeline for Indian nationals in Australia facing passport-related emergencies. It allows safe return to India while upholding identity verification and legal procedures. If you’re in this situation, act promptly—file a police report, contact the nearest Indian mission, and prepare your documents carefully. The consulate is well-equipped to support you in regaining mobility and peace of mind during challenging times.