I'm getting my domicile done (updated Oct 2011). it will take a total of two trips only, and NO MIDDLEMEN.
TRIP 1 :
2) Buy the application form for Rs. 45. This will contain questions about your whereabouts etc. Some questions are fairly amusing. Basically it's a simple questionnaire.
3) you need an affidavit ONLY in case your place of birth is not Maharashtra. This will cost Rs. 200 and you can get it done right there, from an advocate who sits right outside the tehsildar office itself. So apply for this affidavit in your first trip itself. Schedule to pick it up in your second trip (possible to get it the very next day)
TRIP 2 :
1) Take documents with you (originals + 1 attested photocopy each) -
- ration card/passport
- school + college degree certificates and leaving certificates
- leaving certificates
- electricity bills
- birth certificate
- domicile certificate of family members (optional)
along with your completed application form.
Submit everything. That's all.
(you can get it all attested near the office itself, from a lady there for 10 rs.)
They give you a receipt with the date on which you can collect the domicile from that same office. (this will be trip 3 to the place.)
If in doubt, you can always double-check this procedure in your first visit. The staff there are very helpful!
Everywhere, always consult official staff only, the middlemen confuse you. ( I got a lot of false procedures from them today)