Citizenship Duplicate (Pratilipee) Guide 2026

1. When to Apply for a Duplicate?

You can apply for a duplicate citizenship certificate (Pratilipee) if your original is Lost, Stolen, Damaged (Torn/Illegible), or if you need to update details (such as adding a spouse's name or changing your address via migration).

2. Required Documents

• Police Report: Mandatory if the original is lost. Apply online via the LDIMS Portal and print the lost document confirmation.
• Ward Recommendation (Sifaris): A formal recommendation for a duplicate from your local Ward Office.
• Proof of Original: A photocopy of the old citizenship, or at least the Citizenship Number and Issue Date.
• National ID (NID): Your NID card or enrollment slip is now required at most DAOs to verify biometrics.
• Passport Photos: 2 recent identical photos (with a plain background).
• Supporting Documents:
  • Migration Certificate (if changing address).
  • Marriage Certificate (if adding a husband's name).

3. The Application Process (2026)

• Step 1: The Police Report: If lost, file a report online immediately. It takes about 24 hours to be "verified."
• Step 2: Ward Sifaris: Visit your ward office with a photocopy of your old citizenship. They will issue a recommendation letter addressed to the District Administration Office (DAO).
• Step 3: DAO Visit: You must visit the same DAO (or Area Administration Office) that issued your original citizenship.
  Note: If you have migrated, you can apply at your new DAO, but they will need to "fetch records" from your old district, which adds 3–7 days to the process.
• Step 4: Record Verification: The DAO officer will verify your details against the physical ledger (Dharauti) or the digital archive.
• Step 5: Issuance: Once verified, your duplicate is printed. In 2026, most DAOs issue the duplicate on the same day or by the next morning.

4. Fees & Timeline