How to Apply for a Domicile / Residence Certificate in Delhi
Apply for a Delhi Domicile / Residence Certificate online through e-District Delhi — documents accepted, SDM verification, and how to download the digitally signed certificate.
- Last verified
- 21 June 2026
- Official site
- edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in ↗
In Delhi, the Domicile Certificate (also called Residence Certificate) is issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) through the e-District Delhi portal (edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in).
It is required for state-quota seats in Delhi University and IP University, Delhi government job reservations, and several Delhi-specific welfare schemes and scholarships.
There are two main routes:
- By birth — if you were born in Delhi, or one or both parents hold a Delhi domicile, this is the strongest and fastest route.
- By residence — based on continuous ordinary residence in Delhi for the prescribed period (typically 3+ years), supported by address proofs, school records, and an affidavit.
The key to a clean application is consistency across all documents — name spelling, address, parents' names — matched exactly to your Aadhaar. Mismatches between Aadhaar and supporting documents are the most common cause of rejection or delay.
Eligibility
- You have been ordinarily resident in Delhi for the prescribed minimum period (typically 3+ years), OR you were born in Delhi, OR your parents are Delhi domiciles.
- You hold valid identity and address proofs confirming Delhi residence.
Required documents
Aadhaar
Primary identity + address proof — ideally with Delhi address.
Proof of residence in Delhi
Voter ID with Delhi address, ration card, electricity / water bill, rent agreement, or property tax receipt.
Date-of-birth proof
Birth certificate, school leaving certificate (TC), or matriculation certificate.
School records
School TC from a Delhi school strengthens the residence claim.
Parents' domicile certificate (if applying via parental route)
Fast-tracks verification for applicants claiming 'by birth' or through parental domicile.
Self-declaration / affidavit
Standard affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper declaring continuous residence in Delhi.
Passport-size photograph
Recent colour photo.
Step-by-step process
- 1
Open e-District Delhi
Go to edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in and register with your mobile number and email.
edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in ↗ - 2
Log in and find 'Residence / Domicile Certificate'
Browse to Revenue Department → Issuance of Domicile Certificate.
- 3
Fill the application
Enter your name, parents' names, full Delhi address, district, sub-division, and period of residence.
- 4
Upload documents
Upload Aadhaar, residence proof, DOB proof, school TC, photo, and affidavit. PDFs and images are accepted within the portal's size limits.
- 5
Pay the fee
Pay online through the e-District Delhi payment gateway (UPI, net banking, debit/credit card).
- 6
SDM verification
The application is routed to your Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). Field verification may be conducted by a Patwari or Revenue Inspector.
- 7
Download the certificate
Once issued, the digitally signed Domicile Certificate is downloadable from e-District Delhi with a unique application number and QR code.
Official website
Always confirm critical details here
edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in
Common mistakes
- Applying with an Aadhaar address outside Delhi — update Aadhaar address to Delhi before applying.
- Affidavit not on prescribed non-judicial stamp paper — a common rejection reason.
- Missing school TC when claiming schooling-based residence.
- Inconsistent address or name spelling between Aadhaar and supporting documents.
- Selecting the wrong sub-division — choose the SDM office for the area where you currently reside.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a Delhi Domicile Certificate?▾
Required for state quota in Delhi University admissions, DU / IP University state-resident seats, Delhi government job reservations, and various state welfare schemes.
What is the minimum residence period?▾
Typically 3+ years of continuous ordinary residence in Delhi. The 'by birth' route applies if you were born in Delhi or one of your parents holds a Delhi domicile.
Can I apply offline?▾
Yes — apply at your local SDM office. Online via e-District Delhi is generally faster.
How long does processing take?▾
Usually a few working days after the SDM receives the application, assuming clean documents.
Is the e-District certificate accepted for Delhi University admissions?▾
Yes. The digitally signed certificate with QR code is the official document accepted by DU, IP University, and state government departments.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Government portals, document requirements, and fees can change without notice. Always verify the latest requirements on the official website before you apply. Last verified on 21 June 2026.