India Counsular Support
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) residing in the UK can access a wide range of consular services through the High Commission of India in London and the Consulates General in Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Belfast. Below is a detailed guide on how to get consular support, including the types of services available, application procedures, key contacts, and relevant links.
Key Consular Services for NRIs
- Attestation of Documents (Power of Attorney, affidavits, educational certificates, etc.)
- NRI Certificate / NRI Parity Certificate
- Life Certificate (for pension or other purposes)
- Registration of Birth/Death/Marriage
- Solemnization/Registration of Marriage
- Certificate for Transportation of Mortal Remains/Human Ashes
- Re-issuance of International Driving Permit
- Miscellaneous services (PAN applications, OCI/PIO matters, etc.)
How to Apply for Consular Services
Step 1: Identify the Service Needed
- Review the list of consular services and determine which applies to your situation.
- For a full list and details, visit the [Consular Information page of the High Commission of India, London]
Step 2: Booking an Appointment
- Most services require a prior appointment.
- Book online via the [appointment portal] or [direct appointment link].
Step 3: Preparing Documents
- Gather all required documents. Each service has specific requirements-check the [VFS Global consular services page] for detailed checklists.
- Bring originals and self-attested copies for verification.
Step 4: Submission
- Submit your application in person at the designated centre (High Commission or VFS Global application centre).
- Some services (e.g., Life Certificate, Power of Attorney) must be done at the High Commission/Consulate in person.
Step 5: Track Application
- Use the [VFS Global tracking tool] to monitor your application status.
Who Provides Which Services?
- High Commission of India, London: Handles attestation, Power of Attorney, Life Certificate, marriage registration, and emergencies.
- VFS Global: Processes most routine consular services on behalf of the High Commission and Consulates. Book appointments and check requirements at [VFS Global UK].
- Consulates in Birmingham, Edinburgh, Belfast: Provide similar services for their regions. Contact details are available on their respective websites.
Emergency Support
- London Emergency Helpline: +44 7768 765035 (for emergencies like death or serious illness only, not for routine queries)
- Edinburgh Emergency Helpline: +44 7983 029591 (for emergencies only)
- Birmingham PRU Emergency: +44 7405 158288
Contact Information
High Commission of India, London
- Address: India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA
- General Queries: +44 (0)20 7836 9147
- VFS Global Queries: +44 (0)20 3793 8629
- Official Website: [gov.in]
- Appointment Booking: [gov.in/appointment.php]
- Emergency Helpline: +44 7768 765035
Consulate General of India, Edinburgh
- Address: 17, Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH1 2BB
- General Inquiries: +44 131 229 2144
- Emergency Contact: +44 7983 029591
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: [gov.in]
VFS Global UK
- Consular Services Info & Appointments: [vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/ind/apply-consular-services]
- General Info Email: [email protected]
Additional Support
- Legal Assistance: The Indian embassy/consulates can provide lists of local lawyers and assist in legal emergencies.
- Medical Emergencies: Guidance and support in connecting with local healthcare providers.
- Lost Passport: Report to local police and contact the nearest Indian mission for a replacement or emergency travel document.
- Student Support: Guidance on legal and academic matters.
Summary Table of Consular Services for NRIs in the UK
| Service | Where to Apply | Appointment Needed | Key Link/Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attestation (PoA, Affidavits, etc.) | High Commission London | Yes | Consular Information / Book Appointment |
| Life Certificate | High Commission London | Yes | Consular Information / Book Appointment |
| NRI Certificate / Parity Certificate | VFS Global Centres | Yes | VFS Global Consular Services |
| Birth/Death/Marriage Registration | VFS Global Centres | Yes | VFS Global Consular Services |
| Solemnization/Registration of Marriage | High Commission London | Yes | Consular Information/ Book Appointment |
| International Driving Permit | High Commission London | Yes | Consular Information / Book Appointment |
| Attestation for PAN Application | VFS Global Centres | Yes | VFS Global Consular Services |
| Distressed Women Support | High Commission London | No | Women’s Helpline |
| Emergency (Death, Illness, etc.) | High Commission London | No (call first) | Emergency Contact |
For the most up-to-date information and to start your application, always refer to the official High Commission and VFS Global websites.
- https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/page/consular-information/
- https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/uk/consular-services/english/pdf/NRI-Certificate.pdf
- https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/page-link/?page=consular-services
- https://services.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/ind/apply-consular-services
- https://www.cgiedinburgh.gov.in/page/contact-us/
- https://sbnri.com/blog/passport/indian-consulates-in-the-u-k
- https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/page/contact-us-sub/
- https://www.hcilondon.gov.in
- https://www.visahq.co.uk/india/embassy/united-kingdom/