How to Apply for Overseas Citizenship of India?
To apply for the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), follow these steps:
Eligibility Criteria
You may apply for an OCI card if you fall under one of the following categories:
You were a citizen of India at any time after January 26, 1950.
You were eligible to become a citizen of India on January 26, 1950.
You belong to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
You are a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of an Indian citizen.
You are a minor child of the aforementioned categories.
You are the spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder, with a registered marriage that has lasted for at least two years.
Note: Individuals with parents or grandparents who were citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh are not eligible.
Application Process
Online Application:
Complete the application form online at the official OCI services website: ociservices.gov.in
The application consists of two parts: Part A (personal details) and Part B (uploading documents).
Document Preparation:
Gather required documents including:
A valid passport (with at least six months validity).
Proof of Indian origin (e.g., birth certificate, Indian passport copies).
Marriage certificate if applying as a spouse.
Any additional documents as specified in the guidelines.
Submission:
Print the completed application form and attach all required documents, including originals and photocopies.
Submit your application at the nearest VFS center or the Indian High Commission/Consulate. Ensure to book an appointment if required.
Fees:
Pay applicable fees during submission. This can typically be done via cash or card at the VFS center.
Interview:
If applying as a spouse, both partners must attend a mandatory personal interview at the High Commission or Consulate.
Tracking Application:
After submission, you can track your application status online through the same OCI services portal.
Important Notes
Ensure all documents are self-attested as required.
Keep in mind that processing times can vary; typically, it may take around 10-12 weeks depending on clearance from authorities.
OCI does not equate to dual citizenship; holders do not have political rights in India.
By following these steps and ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate, you can successfully apply for Overseas Citizenship of India.
Applying for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) involves a specific process managed by the Government of India. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
Eligibility
First, confirm your eligibility. OCI is available to:
Individuals who were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or were eligible to become citizens at that time.
Persons who belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
Children or grandchildren of such individuals, provided their country of citizenship allows dual citizenship in some form.
Spouses of OCI cardholders (married for at least two years) and minor children of OCI cardholders may also qualify.
Application Process
Access the Online Portal
Visit the official OCI website: https://ociservices.gov.in/. All applications must be submitted online.
Complete the Application Form
Select “OCI Registration” and choose “New OCI Registration.”
Fill out Part A of the form with your personal details (e.g., name, date of birth, nationality).
After submitting Part A, you’ll get a reference number. Use it to complete Part B, which includes additional details like passport information, family details, and employment.
Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to upload scanned copies of the following (specific requirements may vary by country):
Current passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Proof of Indian origin (e.g., surrendered Indian passport, birth certificate, or parents’ Indian passports).
Passport-sized photographs (typically 2×2 inches, check specifications on the portal).
Marriage certificate (if applying as a spouse).
Evidence of address (e.g., utility bill or driver’s license).
For minors, parental authorization may be required.
Pay the Fee
Fees vary by country and application type (e.g., fresh OCI, renewal). In the U.S., it’s typically around $275 USD for adults, plus additional processing fees.
Payment is made online via credit/debit card or as instructed by your local Indian Mission/Consulate.
Submit the Application
After uploading documents and paying, print the completed application form.
Submit the physical copies of your application and documents to the nearest Indian Embassy, Consulate, or authorized agency (e.g., VFS Global in the U.S.). Check the specific submission process for your region on the OCI portal or consulate website.
Track Your Application
Use the reference number provided to track your application status online at the OCI website.
Processing can take 2-3 months, though delays may occur depending on verification.
Receive Your OCI Card
Once approved, you’ll receive an OCI card and a lifelong multiple-entry visa sticker in your passport (if applicable).
Additional Notes
Where to Apply: Applications are processed through Indian Missions/Consulates abroad, not in India. Locate yours via the Ministry of External Affairs website (mea.gov.in).
Processing Time: It varies by country and workload—plan ahead.
Benefits: OCI grants lifelong visa-free travel to India, residency rights, and parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational fields, though it’s not full citizenship (no voting rights or government jobs).
For the latest updates or country-specific instructions, check the OCI portal or contact your local Indian Consulate.
Applying for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) involves an online application followed by submission of documents to the Indian embassy, consulate, or an outsourcing center. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Eligibility:
You are eligible for an OCI card if you:
Were a citizen of India at any time after January 26, 1950.
Belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
Are a child or grandchild of such a person.
Are a minor child of eligible parents.
Are the spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder (with conditions).
Not Eligible:
If you or your parents/grandparents were citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh.
Application Process:
Step 1: Online Application
Visit the official website: OCI Application Portal
Select the relevant category:
New OCI Registration (if applying for the first time)
OCI Miscellaneous Services (for updates/reissue)
PIO to OCI Conversion (if holding a PIO card)
Fill out the application form with personal details.
Upload scanned documents, including:
Passport-size photograph
Signature (for applicants above 5 years)
Proof of Indian origin (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
Current passport copy
Proof of address
Submit the online form and print it.
Step 2: Submission of Documents
Book an appointment (if required) and submit physical copies at:
Indian Embassy/Consulate
Designated Visa/Outsourcing Center (e.g., VFS Global, Cox & Kings, BLS)
Carry originals for verification.
Pay the OCI application fee (varies by country).
Step 3: Tracking & Processing
Track your application online using the Reference Number.
Processing time: 5-8 weeks.
If approved, collect the OCI card from the designated center or receive it by mail.
OCI Benefits:
Lifelong visa-free travel to India.
No need for a student, business, or work visa.
Parity with NRIs for property and economic rights (except farmland).
Can apply for an Aadhar Card (in India).
However, OCI holders cannot vote, hold government jobs, or acquire agricultural land.
Renewal Rules (New Update)
No need for renewal every time you renew your passport.
Only one-time reissue required at 20 years & 50 years of age.
