Indian IT Engineer’s Dilemma Highlights Growing Trend of Citizenship Renunciation

A 23-year-old Indian IT professional earning approximately ₹1 lakh per month has sparked an online discussion about his career and life choices. Sharing his feelings of inferiority on Reddit, he expressed concerns about being left behind as many of his friends pursue higher education abroad. His post ignited debates on whether remaining in India offers better prospects compared to settling overseas.

The situation mirrors a larger trend of Indians renouncing their citizenship in favor of opportunities abroad. Data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reveals that between 2011 and June 2023, 1.75 million Indians voluntarily surrendered their passports. This exodus spans countries ranging from Antigua & Barbuda, Brazil, and Iceland to global powerhouses like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, amounting to emigration across 135 nations.

Currently, India does not permit dual citizenship. Article 9 of the Constitution of India, along with Section 9 of the Citizenship Act, 1955, explicitly prohibits dual nationality. As a result, Indians choosing to acquire foreign citizenship must relinquish their Indian passports.

The trend of citizenship renunciation has witnessed a consistent rise in recent years. According to MEA statistics, 1,22,819 individuals surrendered their citizenship in 2011, a number that fluctuated in subsequent years but has generally grown. In 2021, the figure reached 1,63,370 and surged to 2,25,620 in 2022, marking the highest on record. By June 2023, an additional 87,026 individuals had followed suit, underscoring the ongoing appeal of foreign citizenship.

The data also highlights the countries attracting the most Indian emigrants in 2022. The United States topped the list, with 71,991 Indians opting for U.S. citizenship. Other preferred destinations included Canada (60,139), Australia (40,377), and the United Kingdom (21,457). Smaller numbers were recorded for nations like New Zealand (7,911), Italy (3,839), Germany (3,179), and Sweden (1,970).

Interestingly, while citizenship renunciation continues to rise, the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report 2023 indicates a decline in the number of Indian millionaires emigrating. India, previously ranked second in wealth exodus, dropped to third place after the United Kingdom, with 4,300 millionaires expected to leave the country in 2024. This suggests a shift in the profile of emigrants, with wealthier individuals showing a relative decrease in migration rates.

Beyond the wealth exodus, India has long been a significant contributor to the global workforce. According to MEA estimates, approximately 13 million Indian nationals currently live abroad. This group includes a diverse mix of laborers, professionals, and skilled experts. For many, foreign citizenship offers practical advantages, such as easier travel, job opportunities, or better social security systems. Notably, Indian law imposes no restrictions on citizens traveling abroad for employment. Consequently, many choose to settle in their host countries, acquiring foreign citizenship for personal convenience.

The top five destinations for Indian workers abroad are predominantly Gulf nations. The United Arab Emirates leads with 35.54 lakh Indian workers, followed by Saudi Arabia (22.19 lakh), Kuwait (8.29 lakh), Qatar (8 lakh), and Oman (5.3 lakh). These countries collectively host millions of Indian laborers, highlighting the economic linkages between India and the Gulf region.

To address the needs of the Indian diaspora, the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) scheme was introduced in August 2005 through an amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955. While OCI status is not equivalent to dual citizenship, it offers several benefits to persons of Indian origin. Eligible individuals include those who were Indian citizens as of January 26, 1950, or were entitled to citizenship on that date.

OCI cardholders enjoy numerous privileges, such as a lifetime, multi-entry visa for visiting India. They are also exempt from registering with the Foreign Regional Registration Office or Foreign Registration Office, regardless of the length of their stay. Additionally, they have general parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational opportunities.

However, OCI status comes with limitations. It does not confer political rights or grant the privileges enjoyed by Indian citizens under Article 16 of the Constitution. Despite these restrictions, the scheme has gained popularity. As of January 31, 2022, approximately 40.68 lakh OCI cards had been issued, reflecting the strong connection many emigrants maintain with their homeland.

The story of the young IT engineer grappling with his future reflects the broader aspirations and challenges faced by many Indians. As globalization continues to shape career opportunities and personal choices, the debate over staying in India versus settling abroad remains a poignant topic for the nation’s youth.