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Health & Wellness; Housing & Shelter; Social welfare & Empowerment

Indian Community Welfare Fund

A scheme by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for the welfare of Overseas Indians; assisting them in distress situations. ICWF has also been a critical support in emergency evacuation of Indian nationals from conflict zones, countries affected by natural disasters and other challenging situations.

Authority

Central

Region

Central Government

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

Who can apply

The applicant must be an **Overseas Indian.**1. The applicant must be in a **distress situation (as defined under scheme benefits).**

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

Is legal assistance also provided to the Overseas Indian students who are in distress?

Yes, Overseas Indian students who are in distress are eligible for support under this scheme.

In what cases is an Overseas Indian woman eligible to receive legal assistance?

Legal/financial assistance is provided to Indian women abandoned/ cheated / abused by their Overseas Indian/PIO or foreign spouses (up to seven years after their marriage.

Under what circumstances does the scheme provide support for transportation of Mortal Remains of the deceased Overseas Indian?

Such support is provided in such cases where the employer, sponsor or insurance company is unable or unwilling to do so as per the contract and the family is unable to meet the cost.

Are OCI card holders eligible for financial assistance under ICWF?

No, the "Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) Card Holders" are not eligible for individual financial assistance from ICWF.

Is a person from Indian origin but distressed in a foreign country eligible for assistance?

No, Persons of Indian Origin aren't covered under ICWF.

Does ICWF also provides support in emergency evacuation of Indian nationals?

Yes, ICWF has been a critical support in emergency evacuation of Indian nationals in conflict zones in Libya, Iraq, Yemen, South Sudan and other challenging situations.

Whom should I approach to file the compensation claim for my husband?

You need to contact the "First Point of Contact" of the nation in which your husband died.