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The Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) Card is like a link that helps people of Indian origin stay connected to their ancestral homeland. The card gives them a permit to live and work in India indefinitely without a visa. Moreover, it also allows them to own land and make investments in India. To enjoy the benefits of the OCI card, you must be eligible to apply for one. This article covers the eligibility criteria, application process, and processing time for an OCI card in detail.
What Is An OCI Card?
The OCI card is an identity card given to people of Indian origin. By holding this card, you and your spouse can get a lifetime entry into India. It also allows you to study, invest, own a house, or travel within India without a problem. However, it is important to note that although the OCI card offers similar benefits to those of Indian citizens, you cannot vote in India, apply for government jobs, or purchase agricultural land.
Eligibility Criteria To Hold OCI Card
The following are the eligibility criteria to apply for an OCI Card:
- Previous citizen of India: You or your parents or grandparents should be citizens of India after 26th January 1950.
- Foreign citizen: Your current citizen should be from any country except India.
- Renounced Indian citizenship: You have renounced Indian citizenship to get foreign citizenship.
- Spouse: Spouses of Indian citizens or existing OCI card holders, provided they are married for at least 2 years before applying for the OCI card. However, if you are divorced after the OCI card is granted, you'll lose your OCI status.
- If you were once a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh or have served in a foreign military, you are not eligible to apply for the OCI card.
Step-by-Step Process Of Applying For An OCI Card
The following steps will guide you in applying for an OCI Card.
- Visit the government OCI portal and select OCI registration.
- It will redirect you to the OCI registration. Make sure you read all the instructions before starting the application.
- Start the application process by filling out Part A. Once you have completed Part A, upload your image and signature as per the instructions given.
- Complete the application by filling out Part B of the application.
- Once you complete the application, you will need to upload all the documents in PDF format. You can download the completed application for further use.
- Then, register at the VFS website and start a new application. Add your details on the Add Customer page and submit them.
- Then select the courier service, pay the fees, and print the shipping labels.
- Send all the documents and application forms to the respective Indian consular address.
- You may also have to book an appointment to physically verify documents and biometrics. However, that depends on the consulate.
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List Of Documents Required For OCI Application
The following is the list of documents required to apply for an OCI card.
- A copy of the current passport, which is self-attested.
- A copy of the Indian passport of their parents or grandparents, which is self-attested.
- Proof of renunciation of Indian citizenship, if applicable
- Birth certificate
- Proof of address in the country of residence
- Proof of legal status in the country of residence
- Recent passport-size photographs of 200 by 200 pixels.
- A copy of the Indian visa, if ever obtained, is self-attested.
- Fee receipt
Costs Associated With OCI Card Application
The standard fee for OCI application processing is USD 275 if you are applying from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, or any other country. However, if you are applying from India, a fee of Rs 15,000 is charged.
Apart from the standard fee, you may also incur a fee for notarizing and translating your documents if you live in a country where English is not the official language. Apart from this, there could be travel charges to the nearest consulate or mission office and any professional fees if you take the help of an expert to handle your documents.
Common Mistakes To Avoid In The OCI Application Process
The following are common mistakes to avoid when applying for your OCI card.
- Ensure the photo and signature are high quality and in the right size and format when uploading.
- All documents must be double-checked before submitting.
- Make sure you cross-check your application form before submitting it to avoid mistakes in spelling or incorrect information.
- Avoid last-minute or late submissions, and prepare your documents well in advance.
- Give the right address to the courier service so they can receive your OCI card on time.
- Track your application status and follow up with the consulate or mission if necessary.
Conclusion
The OCI card application process can be complex, time-consuming, and tedious. However, if you follow the instructions carefully and submit all the necessary documents on time, your entire process will be smooth, and you can obtain your OCI card. Remember to keep checking the VFS portal or the government OCI portal for regular updates on the application process and document checklist, as they change over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the OCI Card Application Process take?
The OCI card application processing time can vary based on your location, the application's completeness and the documents' accuracy. However, on average, it takes 8 to 10 weeks for your application to be processed.
Can minors apply for an OCI card, and what is the process?
Yes, minors can apply for an OCI card, and the process is similar to that of an adult. However, minors would need additional documentation, such as content from both parents and parental documents such as passports, visas, and other proofs. Moreover, minors may also need to attend a biometric appointment at the nearest consular office or mission, depending on the consulate's requirements.
How can I track the status of my OCI Card Application?
There are multiple ways to track your OCI card application. First, you can go to the OCI services portal and track your application under the 'Status Enquiry' tab. Alternatively, you can track your application on the VFS Global portal by entering your application reference number and last name. You can also track your application by contacting the Indian consulate or mission where you submitted your documents.
What are the fees associated with the OCI Card Application Process?
The standard fee charged for OCI application processing is USD 275 if you are applying from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, or any other country. However, if you are applying from India, a fee of Rs 15,000 is charged.
Is a physical appointment necessary for the OCI Card Application Process?
In most cases, a physical appointment is necessary for document verification and biometrics collection. However, that usually depends on the consulate or mission office. It is always best to check with the consulate or mission for up-to-date information.
