Emergency Certificate

Overview:

An Emergency Certificate (EC) is an official document issued by the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) in South Korea to an Indian national for one-way travel to India in case of non-availability of a valid passport with the applicant (due to loss, damage or expiry) and where a new passport cannot be issued immediately.

List of Documents to be submitted along with the application-

1. Original/Old Passport along with photocopies of the first, second, and last pages.
2. FIR/Police Report in case of a lost passport, along with a copy.
3. Written Request Letter stating the circumstances or requirement for the EC.
4. Alien Registration Card along with a copy.
5. Visa Copy showing the first entry date into South Korea.
6. Three Recent Photographs (2 inch x 2 inch) with a light background.
7. Printout of the Online Submitted Application Form.
8. Copies of Minimum Two Identity Proof Documents with originals for verification (e.g., Driving License, PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Voter ID Card, Ration Card, Electricity Bill).
9. Copy of Confirmed Ticket Booking for a direct flight from South Korea to India.
10. Misc. Form

Fees Details

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What is an Emergency Certificate (EC)?
   An Emergency Certificate is a travel document issued to Indian nationals who need to return to India urgently and do not possess a valid passport.
2. Who can apply for an Emergency Certificate?
   Indian nationals residing in South Korea who have lost their passport, had it stolen, or whose passport has expired and cannot be renewed immediately can apply for an EC.
3. Can I use an Emergency Certificate for international travel other than returning to India?
   No, the EC is strictly a one-way travel document that allows the holder to return to India only. It is not valid for travel to any other country.
4. How long does it take to process an Emergency Certificate?
   Processing times can vary, but typically, it takes 3-5 working days after submission of all required documents.
5. Where can I submit my Emergency Certificate application in South Korea?
   Applications must be submitted in person at the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) in South Korea.
6. Can a minor apply for an Emergency Certificate?
   Yes, a minor can apply for an EC. In such cases, consent from both parents or legal guardians is required along with the child’s birth certificate.
7. What is the validity period of an Emergency Certificate?
   The EC is usually valid for a maximum of six months or until the date of travel back to India, whichever is earlier.
8. Can I apply for an Emergency Certificate if my passport is confiscated by South Korean authorities?
   Yes, but you must provide a letter or police report from the concerned authority explaining the reason for confiscation.
9. Can the Emergency Certificate be extended or renewed?
   No, the EC is a one-time travel document and cannot be extended or renewed. Applicants must apply for a new passport upon reaching India.
10. Can I use the Emergency Certificate to apply for a visa to another country?
    No, the EC is solely for returning to India and cannot be used for obtaining visas to other countries.
11. What should I do after reaching India with the Emergency Certificate?
    Upon arrival in India, you must report to the Regional Passport Office (RPO) to apply for a new passport or resolve any immigration issues.