OCI Registration Online

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OCI Registration Online

What is OCI ?

The Overseas Citizenship of India is a form of permanent residency available to people of Indian origin and also for their spouses which allows them to live and work in India indefinitely. Despite the name, OCI status is not citizenship of the country and does not grant the right to vote in Indian elections or hold public office. The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is issued to a foreign national of Indian origin. It is an immigration status permitting them to live and work in the country indefinitely. The OCI card was introduced in August 2005 in response to demands for dual citizenship by the Indian diaspora who were residing in the developed countries. It was introduced under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2005 and was launched during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention held in Hyderabad in 2006. It needs to be mentioned that the constitution of India prevents the citizens of the country from holding dual citizenship. OCI is not actual citizenship of India according to the law as it has many limitations such as no right to vote, no right to hold constitutional offices, and no right to buy agricultural properties.

Why OCI?

OCI card holders are ordinarily entitled to following benefits which other foreign nationals are not entitled to: 1. Multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India; 2. Exemption from reporting to Police authorities for any length of stay in India; and 3. Parity with NRIs in financial, economic and educational fields except in the acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.

OCI Miscellaneous Services:

These services can be availed for re-issuance / issuance of duplicate OCI documents in the following category of cases: - In case the existing OCI card holder wishes to update/upload the latest information about his latest passport, Change in address/Occupation/Contact details, the OCI card holder can select the option/(s) as given below and upload the latest photograph and requisite documents. These details shall be updated into the OCI system records and an acknowledgement shall be shared with OCI card holder on his/her registered email ID. The services under these categories are gratis in nature: **1. In case issuance of new Passport Details (each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age)** **2. In case change in address/occupation/contact details.** - These Misc services can be availed for re-issuance of OCI Card as well as updating the information time to time as mentioned in the MHA notification dated 16th April, 2021. The re-issuance of new OCI card will be applicable for following categories: **1. In case of issuance of new passport (once a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age.)** **2. In case of change of personal particulars viz. name, father's name, nationality etc.** **3. In case of loss/damage of OCI registration certificate.** - In case of Renunciation of OCI Card.

Eligibility for OCI

The following categories of foreigners are eligible to apply for registration as OCI: - Any foreign national who was an Indian Citizen on 26.01.1950 or has been an Indian Citizen after 26.01.1950 or; - Any foreign national who either themselves or through their parents or grandparents was born in India and was ordinarily residing outside India was eligible to become citizen of India on 26.01.1950 and also eligible for OCI card or; - Any foreign national who belonged to the territory of Sikkim before 26.04.1945 or; - Any foreign national who belonged to the territory of Puducherry before 16.08.1962 or; - Any foreign national who belonged to the territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli before 11.08.1961 or; - Any foreign national who belonged to the territory of Goa, Daman and Diu before 20.12.1961 or; - Child or grandchild or a great grandchild of persons falling in any of the above mentioned categories or; - Minor child (foreign national) of such persons mentioned above or; - A minor child who is a foreign national but both her/his parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India or; - Foreigner spouse of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI Cardholder is eligible for grant of OCI provided that their marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than two years at the time of filing OCI application. The person was a citizen of India at the time of or any time after 26 January 1950. - The person was eligible to become a citizen of India on 26 January 1950. - The person belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15 August 1947. - The person is a minor or a child or a grandchild or a great-grandchild of such a person mentioned in the first three points. - The person is a minor child and whose parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India. - The person is the spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an overseas citizen of India cardholder and whose marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application. A foreign national, - (i) who was a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after 26th January, 1950; or (ii) who was eligible to become a citizen of India on 26th January, 1950; or (iii) who belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947; or (iv) who is a child or a grandchild or a great grandchild of such a citizen; or (v) who is a minor child of such persons mentioned above; or (vi) who is a minor child and whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India - is eligible for registration as OCI cardholder. Besides, spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder and whose marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application is also eligible for registration as OCI cardholder. However, no person, who or either of whose parents or grandparents or great grandparents is or had been a citizen of Pakistan, Bangladesh or such other country as the Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, specify, shall be eligible for registration as an Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder. Foreign nationals cannot apply for OCI in India while on Tourist Visa, Missionary Visa and Mountaineering Visa. Moreover, the foreigner has to be ordinarily resident of India to be eligible to apply for OCI registration in India. Note: 'ordinarily resident' will mean a person staying in a particular country or in India for a continuous period of 6 months.** To apply for an OCI card, the applicant must be a citizen of another country and hold its passport.The OCI document is not issued to citizens who reside in Pakistan and Bangladesh. The person must first check the eligibility before the starting the registration process. - If the applicant is already an OCI card holder, he/she needs to use OCI miscellaneous services. - The person needs to register through OCI registration even if he/she is a PIO card holder or the card is in the lost state. - To reprint the already registered application, the 'Reprint Submitted Application' service must be used.Apart from these, there are certain prerequisites as well which needs to be addressed. They are: - The applicant must be ready with his/her photo and the image of the signature. The size of both the photo and the signature must not exceed 200 KB.**Note:** The height and width of the photo must be equal. The minimum and maximum dimensions are 200 pixels x 200 pixels and 900 pixels x 900 pixels (width x height). The height and width of the signature's image must have an aspect ratio of 1:3. The minimum and maximum dimensions are 200 pixels x 67 pixels and 900 pixels x 300 pixels (width x height). - The supporting documents must be ready in PDF format whose size must not exceed 1,000 KB. **Eligibility****: **A foreign national, who was eligible to become citizen of India on 26th January 1950 or was a citizen of India on or at any time after 26th January 1950 or belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15th August 1947 and his/her children and grand children, provided his/her country of citizenship allows dual citizenship in some form or other under the local laws, is eligible for registration as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Minor Children of such persons are also eligible for OCI. However, if the applicant had ever been a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh, he/she will not be eligible for OCI. Eligibility criteria: Following categories of foreign nationals are eligible for registration as Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholder:- (1) Who was a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after the commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950; or (2) who was eligible to become a citizen of India on 26.01.1950; or (3) who belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15.08.1947; or (4) who is a child or a grandchild or a great grandchild of such a citizen; or (5) who is a minor child of such persons mentioned above; or (6) who is a minor child and whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India; or (7) spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder registered under section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955 and whose marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application. Note : No person, who or either of whose parents or grandparents or great grandparents is or had been a citizen of Pakistan, Bangladesh or such other country as the Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, specify, shall be eligible for registration as an Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder.

Documents Required for OCI Registration

Kindly be ready with Applicant's image and Applicant's signature image (Max size 1MB). - The height and width of the Applicant Photo must be equal. - The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 200 pixels (height). - The maximum dimensions are 3500 pixels (width) x 3500 pixels (height). - The height and width of the Signature Photo must have aspect ratio 1:3 - The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 67 pixels (height). - The maximum dimensions are 3500 pixels (width) x 2500 pixels (height). It is mandatory to upload Applicant's image and Applicant's signature image during OCI-Registration. - Both the images must be in jpeg or jpg format, with max size 1MB. - The height and width of the Applicant Photo must be equal. - The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 200 pixels (height). - The maximum dimensions are 3500 pixels (width) x 3500 pixels (height). - The height and width of the Signature Photo must have aspect ratio 1:3 - The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 67 pixels (height). - The maximum dimensions are 3500 pixels (width) x 2500 pixels (height). - Kindly be ready with supporting documents in PDF format (Max size 1000kb). (A) Documents to be submitted with the application 1. Proof of present citizenship - Copy of present valid passport (applicable in all cases), with validity of minimum 6 months at the time of submission of application. In case application is submitted in India, copy of any type of Visa (other than Missionary Visa and Mountaineering Visa)/ Residential Permit with 3 months validity as on the date of application. 3. Evidence of self or parents or grandparents or great grandparents- (a) Being a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after the commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950; or (b) Being eligible to become a citizen of India at the time of commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950; or (c) Belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947. These could be: (i) Copy of the Indian Passport; or (ii) Copy of the Domicile Certificate issued by the Competent Authority; or (iii) Copy of Nativity Certificate from the competent authority; or (iv) OCI Card/ PIO card of parents/ spouse along with the base papers/ documents upon which the OCI/ PIO card was issued; or (v) Any other proof substantiating the request. Usually applicants are able to submit a certificate of residence or place of birth of self/parents/grandparents from First Class Magistrate/District Magistrate (DM) of the concerned place. 4. Evidence of relationship as parent/grandparent/ great grandparent, if their Indian origin is claimed as basis for registration as OCI Cardholder: The document of relationship could be “Birth Certificate” issued from competent authority mentioning both parents‟ name. In case the birth certificate is issued by a foreign authority, it is to be Apostled or endorsed by the concerned Indian Mission abroad. 5. In case of minor child whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India – (i) Copy of child‟s birth certificate (ii) Copy of Indian passport of the parents / one of the parents or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the parents/ one of the parents or any other proof substantiating the status of the parents/ one of the parents as being Indian citizen(s). (iii) If the parents are divorced, court order of dissolution of marriage, which specifically mentions that the legal custody of the child is with the parent who is applying for the OCI card. 6. Evidence as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI Cardholder – (i) Registered marriage certificate; and (ii) In the case of spouse of an Indian citizen - copy of the Indian Passport of the spouse or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the Indian spouse or any other proof substantiating the status of the spouse as being an Indian citizen. (iii) In the case of spouse of an OCI Cardholder - Copy of the present valid Passport of the spouse and copy of the OCI Card of the spouse and copies of the documents upon which the OCI Card was issued to the spouse 7. In case of applications of Canadian nationals for registration as OCI cardholder, following documents should also be submitted:- (a) Landing paper/ Work Permit of applicant/ sponsor (b) If landing paper at Column 19 shows FC (Family Class), then- (i) Letter from Canadian Immigration and Refugee Board (ii) A notarized affidavit pleading that neither the applicant nor the sponsor has sought Refugee status in Canada (c) Last Canadian address (d) Last Canadian Visa copy (B) Application Fee Till such time, the online payment facility is introduced, (a) in case of application submitted in Indian Mission/ Post abroad - By way of Demand Draft for US $ 275 for each applicant or equivalent in local currency. (b) in case application is submitted in India - a fee of Rs.15,000/- by way of Demand Draft drawn in favour of “Pay and Accounts Officer (Secretariat), Ministry of Home Affairs” payable at New Delhi. (C) Specifications for Photograph Photograph to be affixed on the application should be of square shape of size not less than 51x 51 mm (with 80% coverage of face). It should have plain light color background (not white) without the border with front view of person‟s head and shoulders showing the full face in middle of the photograph. It should not be stapled and should not have any signature. Note: Photographs that do not conform to the above standards will be rejected and may cause delay in processing the applications. (D) Offices in which original documents are to be submitted for prior verification As per the existing procedure, the applicants have to submit the application form online and upload all the requisite documents (self attested), photograph and signature (in the case of minors who cannot sign, left hand thumb impression) along with the application

Points to Remember:

Please fill the fields in BLOCK LETTERS. - A person who has not attained the age of 18 years is considered as minor. In case of minor who cannot sign, his/her left thumb impression may be placed in the signature box. Parents should not sign on the behalf of the children. - Signature/Thumb impression should be confined to the prescribed box. In case of minor applicants, parents should NOT sign in the box. - Photograph to be affixed on the application should be a square shape of size not less than 51*51mm (with 80% coverage of face). It should have plain light color background (not white) without the border with front view of person's head and shoulders showing the full face in middle of the photograph. It should not be stapled and not have any signature. - Photographs that do not conform to these standards will be rejected and may cause a delay in processing the applications. Please see standards of acceptable photographs as Photo Link. - If there are any objections while processing the applications, the same will be displayed on the Online Status Enquiry. Please follow the instructions and send requisite documents to the Indian Mission/ Office where you have applied quoting the File (or Acknowledgement) Number. - After successful registration, copy of Part A and Part B with an online registration number will be printed. Application form on Parts A and B, complete in all respects, along with all relevant enclosures may be submitted to the appropriate office. FROM DECEMBER 18, 2018 ONWARDS, THE ENROLMENT OF BIOMETRICS DATA (CAPTURE OF FACIAL RECOGNITION AND FINGER-PRINTING DATA) HAS BEEN MADE COMPULSORY BY COMPETENT AUTHORITY FOR ALL THE OCI APPLICANTS (EXCEPT CHILDREN BELOW 12 YEARS AND PERSONS OVER 65 YEARS).

Enclosures to be attached with the application:

- **In case of applications for registration as Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder in lieu of PIO card, only copies of the following documents to be attached:-** - Valid passport of the applicant - Valid PIO card of the applicant. - **In case of fresh application for registration as OCI Cardholder, following documents are to be attached:-** - Proof of present citizenship - Copy of present valid passport (applicable in all cases), with validity of minimum 6 months at the time of submission of application. - In case application is submitted in India, copy of any type of Visa (other than Missionary Visa, Tourist Visa and Mountaineering Visa)/ Residential Permit with 3 months validity as on the date of application. - Evidence of self or parents or grandparents or great grandparents being a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after the commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950 or being eligible to become a citizen of India at the time of commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950 or belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947:- **These could be:** - Copy of the Indian Passport; or - Copy of the Domicile Certificate issued by the Competent Authority; or - Copy of Nativity Certificate from the Competent Authority; or - OCI Card/ PIO card of parents/ spouse along with the documents upon which the OCI/ PIO card was issued; or - Any other proof substantiating the request. Usually applicant does submit a certificate of residence or place of birth of self/parents/grandparents from First Class Magistrate/District Magistrate (DM) of the concerned place. - Evidence of relationship as parent/grandparent/ great grandparent, if their Indian origin is claimed as basis for registration as OCI Cardholder: The document of relationship could be “Birth Certificate” issued from competent authority mentioning both parents’ name. In case the birth certificate is issued by a foreign authority, it is to be Apostilled or endorsed by the concerned Indian Mission abroad. - **In case of minor child whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India:** - Copy of child's birth certificate - Copy of Indian passport of the parents / one of the parents or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the parents/ one of the parents or any other proof substantiating the status of the parents/ one of the parents as being Indian citizen(s). - If the parents are divorced, court order of dissolution of marriage, which specifically mentions that the legal custody of the child is with the parent who is applying for the OCI card. - **Evidence as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI Cardholder:** - Registered marriage certificate; indicating that the marriage has taken place before 2 years on the date of application. **AND** - - In the case of spouse of an Indian citizen - Copy of the Indian Passport of the spouse or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the Indian spouse or any other proof substantiating the status of the spouse as being an Indian citizen **OR** - In the case of spouse of an OCI Cardholder - Copy of the present valid Passport of the spouse and copy of the OCI Card of the spouse and copies of the documents upon which the OCI Card was issued to the spouse. - - In case of applications submitted to the Indian Mission/ Post abroad, OCI registration fee of US$ 275 (US$ 100 for conversion of PIO to OCI card) for each application or equivalent amount in local currency to be paid by way of Demand Draft (till online payment facility is introduced). - In case of applications submitted in India, a fee of Rs.15,000/- (Rs. 5500/- for conversion of PIO to OCI card) by way of Demand Draft drawn in favour of “Pay and Accounts Officer (Secretariat), Ministry of Home Affairs payable at New Delhi (till online payment facility is introduced). - The documents enclosed with the application should be self attested.

OCI Registration Fees

The fees required to be paid by applicants who register as OCI depends on the factor as to where the application is being submitted. If the application is submitted outside India, US$275 or its equivalent in local currency for each applicant needs to be paid through demand draft. If the application is submitted in India itself, an amount of Rs.15,000 needs to be paid through Demand Draft. The Demand Draft needs to be in favor of 'Pay and Accounts Officer (Secretariat), Ministry of Home Affairs' payable at New Delhi.

Procedure for OCI Registration

Start registration from Part-A, then upload Image and signature; and finally complete Part-B. 2. Documents supporting your application have to be uploaded in PDF format at the end of Part-B. 3. After completing application, hard copy has to be be submitted to the selected mission's office. How to apply for OCI: 1. Log on to OCI registration website. 2. Fill Part A (both page I and II). A dialogue box with all filled in information shall appear. Verify the details and click on the submit button. 3. Upload photograph and signature. 4. Fill the details in Part B and click on submit, and then click on upload documents. A drop down menu appears. Select the name of document, upload relevant documents and click on final submit. 5. Click on generate registration form. A pdf form shall be generated. 6. After successful registration, a filled in form is generated. The Applicant needs to download the form, sign at appropriate places and send the signed application form and relevant documents to mission/consulate/outsourcing agency. 7. The mission/consulate/outsourcing agency thereafter scrutinizes the documents. In case of any deficiency in the documents the applicant is conveyed via email to submit additional documents. The amount and manner in which the fee has to be paid is also intimated by the mission/consulate. In case the OCI process is being processed through an outsourcing agency, the applicant needs to send the Banker’s cheque/ money order with the documents itself. 8. The status of OCI application can be tracked at [https://ociservices.gov.in/statusEnqury](https://ociservices.gov.in/statusEnqury) 9. Once the application is processed the status is reflected on the abovementioned link and the applicant can check his OCI Number on the website. 10. Ordinarily, OCI Registration Certificate is available for delivery within 60 days from the date of acknowledgment. 11. The concerned mission/consulate/outsourcing agency then informs the applicant the manner in which the applicant can collect his OCI card and the certificate. Normally the OCI card and the certificate are delivered to the address of the applicant. To register as OCI, eligible persons need to follow the steps mentioned below: - The applicant must first visit www.ociservices.gov.in - Next, he/she needs to click on 'OCI Registration' - In doing so, the applicant is redirected to a new page where he/she needs to click on the link that reads 'Click Here to Proceed'. - In the next page, the applicant is required to click on 'Proceed'. - In the corresponding page, the applicant needs to key in the captcha code and click on 'Enter'. - Next, the appropriate option from among 'Fresh Application' and 'Complete Partially-Filled Application' needs to be selected. - On selecting 'Fresh Application', a new page is opened where the applicant's information, passport details, and family details need to be provided. - In the next page, the applicant's photo and signature needs to be uploaded - Once the photo and signature are successfully uploaded, the supporting documents need to be uploaded and the application is needed to be submitted. - After the submission of the online application, a copy of the application form which contains the online registration number needs to be printed. - The printout along with all the relevant enclosures and requisite fees needs to be submitted to the Indian Mission/Post/Office under whose jurisdiction the applicant is ordinarily residing. **Application Form and Procedure:** A family consisting of spouses and upto two minor children can apply in the same Form i.e. Form XIX. This form can be filled in online only and downloaded from the Website:*https://passport.gov.in/oci/** Fees charged for OCI and related services may be seen in the fee schedule herein below. Part B can be downloaded and filled in by hand in BLOCK LETTERS. The following documents must be enclosed in each application: - Proof of present citizenship. In case application is filled in India, a copy of valid visa/Residential permit for a minimum valid period of three months should also be enclosed. - Evidence of self or parents or grand parents, a. being eligible to become a citizen of India at the time of commencement of the Constitution; or b. belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15th August 1947; or c. being Citizen of India on or after 26th January 1950. These could be: 1. Copy of the Indian Passport; or 2. Copy of the domicile certificate issued by the competent authority; or 3. Any other proof Evidence of relationship as parent/grand parent, if theirIndian origin is claimed as basis for grant of OCI. Prior Permission of the Government of India is required by the OCI Card holders for undertaking mountaineering expeditions, missionary activities, research work and visit to the restricted/ protected area. After submission of the complete application online including documents, photograph and signature, the original of the supporting documents have to be submitted to the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO concerned for prior verification. Details of offices where the applicants have to submit the original supporting documents for prior verification are as follows:- Applicants outside India (1) The Indian Mission /Post having jurisdiction over the country of which applicant is a citizen; or (2) If he/she is not living in the country of his/her citizenship, to the Indian Mission /Post having jurisdiction over the country of which the applicant is ordinarily resident. (E) General Instructions The applicants have to submit the application form online and upload all the requisite documents (self attested), photograph and signature (in the case of minors who cannot sign, left hand thumb impression) along with the application. After submission of the complete application online including documents, photograph and signature, the original of the supporting documents have to be submitted to the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO concerned for prior verification. No hardcopy of the application is to be submitted to the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO. The Indian Missions/ Posts/ FRROs will be responsible for verifying the supporting documents with the originals. If there is any deficiency in the application/ uploaded documents/ photograph, the Indian Mission/Post/FRRO concerned shall inform the same to the applicant by email. The applicant may then submit the required documents to the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO concerned, who will take necessary action to upload the same on the online system. After verification of the documents with the originals and confirming that the application along with all the documents submitted are in order, the Indian Mission/Post/FRRO concerned shall click the following box provided on the online system:- " Uploaded documents verified with originals and found to be correct.” Once the above box is clicked, the application will get automatically acknowledged on the online system. Simultaneously an auto email will be sent to the applicant informing “Application received and is under process”. Thereafter, the originals of the supporting documents will be returned to the applicant. Procedure for submission of application by erstwhile PIO cardholders (1) As on date, all Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders with valid PIO cards as on 9.1.2015 are deemed to be Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders in terms of the notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 9.1.2015. (2) However, all persons having valid PIO cards as on 9th January, 2015 are advised to apply for registration as OCI cardholder in view of the following advantages in possessing an OCI card:- (a) OCI card is a smart card (b) Possession of an OCI card will facilitate quicker immigration clearance at the Immigration Check Posts (c) It will help in obtaining various Consular Services from the Indian Missions (d) For those who are resident in India, it will facilitate in availing various services in India. Procedure for granting Registration: (1) In all cases, other than the application submitted as a spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI Cardholder and by erstwhile PIO cardholders with valid PIO cards as on 9.1.2015, the security agencies shall upload their comments/ clearance on the online system after verification of the antecedents of the applicant within 20 days from the date of acknowledgement of the application. If the comments/ clearance of security agencies are not uploaded within 20 days of the date of acknowledgement of the application, the Indian Mission/Post/ FRRO concerned shall register a person as an OCI Cardholder within 30 days of the date of acknowledgement if there is no adverse information available against the applicant after preliminary scrutiny. However, If during the verification subsequently, any adverse information comes to the knowledge of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the registration as an OCI Cardholder already granted by the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO concerned shall be cancelled by an order under section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955. Further, if there is any adverse information against the applicant after preliminary scrutiny by the Indian Mission/Post/ FRRO concerned, prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs shall be required before grant of registration. The Ministry of Home Affairs may approve or reject the grant of registration within 120 days from the date of the receipt of the application. If the grant of registration as an OCI Cardholder is approved by the MHA, the Indian Mission/Post/ FRRO concerned shall register the person as an OCI Cardholder After Registration of OCI After submission of the complete application online including documents, photograph and signature, the applicants are required to visit their jurisdictional FRRO/ Mission/ Post with the originals of the supporting documents uploaded with online application for prior verification. - In India to the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO), Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Amritsar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Lucknow, Kochi, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) , Ahmedabad and Goa. - Outside India, to the Indian Mission/Post having jurisdiction over the country of which the applicant is a citizen or if he/she is not living the country of his/her citizenship, to the Indian Mission/Post having jurisdiction over the country of which the applicant is ordinarily resident. - After receipt of application in concerned office, a File (or Acknowledgement) Number would be issued to the applicant by way of acknowledgement - The applicant can verify the status of his/her application online by quoting the online Registration Number or File (or Acknowledgement) Number. - Please contact Mission/Office where you have applied for OCI registration after 10 days from the date of dispatch of documents from Delhi or any day after receipt of documents at the Mission/Office whichever is earlier. Please produce your passports(s) and PIO card, if applicable, in person/through authorized person for affixing OCI visa sticker and issuance of registration certificate. In case of applications filled in India with FRRO, applicants should go to the FRRO office in person/through authorized person. - For collection of OCI document, the applicant is required to be present at the concerned Indian Mission / FRRO Office in person or he/she can send a duly authorized person, along with his/her passport & PIO card (if any) and the original documents for which self-attested copies were attached at the time of submitting application, for verification purposes. - Please check that all fields in the form are filled in and all necessary enclosures are attached before submission of the form to Indian Mission/Post abroad or FRRO in India. The OCI card shall be issued by the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO concerned within the jurisdiction of the applicant‟s place of residence. The applicant will have to approach the Indian Mission/ Post/ FRRO concerned only for collecting the OCI Card by surrendering the PIO card. What documents are required to be presented at the time of collection of the OCI Card?

·Current Passport (for Fresh cases)

·Old OCI Card and Current Passport (for OCI Miscellaneous service/Renewal cases)

·PIO Card and Current Passport (For OCI in lieu of valid PIO card cases) Processing times for OCI Card services

·Ordinarily, it takes approximately 60 working days from the receipt of hard copy of the application and completion of file, and if there is no adverse information available against the applicant, for issuing a Fresh OCI Card, subject to approvals. (In case any adverse information is available against the applicant, the decision to grant or otherwise is taken within 4 months from the date of receipt of the application.)

· Miscellaneous service applications takes approximately 20 working days for processing.

_** The applicants can track for status of OCI card at_ [_https://ociservices.gov.in/statusEnqury_](https://ociservices.gov.in/statusEnqury) _or enquire at 02645-1866 or 02645-1850 Ext 163 between 1000 to 1200 hrs_ How can OCI Card be collected?

An OCI Card can only be collected in person during the designated collection hours from the Embassy of India, Brussels on presentation of the documents listed at Serial No.15 above. However, in case of minors, either of the parents can collect on their behalf along with documents listed at Sl No 15 above.

How to check the status of the OCI application?

After the OCI application is filed, the status of the application can be checked by the applicants. This can be done by following the steps mentioned below: - Visit www.ociservices.gov.in - Next, click on 'OCI-Enquiry' - Thereafter click on 'Click Here to Proceed'. - After that, click on 'Status Enquiry' from among the various options. - Next, click on 'Proceed'. - In doing so, a new page opens where the applicant needs to enter the passport number and one of either online registration number or acknowledgement number. - Following that, the applicant needs to enter the captcha code and click on 'Get Status'. - The status of the application is displayed on the corresponding screen.

Disqualification:

Any person who by themselves or either of whose parents or grandparents or great grandparents are or had been a citizen of Pakistan, Bangladesh cannot be eligible for registration as an Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder. Concealment of any material fact or false representation etc. will lead to cancellation of registration as Overseas Citizen of India (Please refer to section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955). Most common hurdles: - **Non availability of document of Evidence of relationship with the person applicant is claiming Indian Origin through**: Birth Certificate issued from competent authority mentioning both parents’ name should be uploaded. Where the birth certificate is issued by a foreign authority, it is to be Apostilled or endorsed by the concerned Indian Mission abroad. The website of the respective Indian Embassy explains the procedure of apostillation. - **Relevant document to submit as any other proof to claim Indian Origin**: Any documentary evidence like a school certificate, Agricultural land ownership certificate, birth certificate etc. by which eligibility may be reasonably ascertained. Common errors to avoid while filling application form: The general mistakes that applicants make while filling the application for are wrong selection of jurisdiction in part A, uploaded photograph does not meet the photo specifications, uploaded digital signature is not clear etc. The applicants are advised not to make such ordinary mistakes and stay a bit careful while filling and submitting the form.

How Ecfile can help you get OCI:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible to apply? A foreign national, who was eligible to become a citizen of India on 26.01.1950 or was a citizen of India on or at anytime after 26.01.1950 or belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15.08.1947 and his/her children and grand children, is eligible for registration as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Minor children of such person are also eligible for OCI. However, if the applicant had ever been a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh, he/she will not be eligible for OCI. 2. Who was eligible to become Citizen of India on 26.01.1950? Any person who, or whose parents or grand-parents were born in India as defined in the Government of India Act, 1935 (as originally enacted), and who was ordinarily residing in any country outside India was eligible to become citizen of India on 26.01.1950. 3. Which territories became part of India after 15.08.1947 and from what date? The territories which became part of India after 15.08.1947 are: (i) Sikkim 26.04.1975 (ii) Pondicherry 16.08.1962 (iii) Dadra & Nagar Haveli 11.08.1961 (iv) Goa, Daman and Diu 20.12.1961 4. Can the spouse of the eligible person apply for OCI? Yes, if he/she is eligible in his/her own capacity. 5. Can Minor children apply for OCI? Yes, if either of the parentsis eligible for OCI. 6. In what form should a person apply for an OCI and where are the forms available? A family consisting of spouses and upto two minor children can apply in the same form i.e. Form XIX, which can be filed online or downloaded from our website http://mha.nic.in/ForeigDiv/ForeigHome.html. 7. Can application form be filled and submitted on line? Yes. Part A of the application form should be filed online. Part B should be downloaded and printed on computer or by hand in Block letters. Printed Part A and Part B of the application form has to be submitted to the Indian Mission/Post/Office along with all requisite documents. 8. What documents have to be submitted with the application? The following documentsshall be enclosed for each applicant: 1. Proof of present citizenship 2. Evidence of self or parents or grand parents, (a) being eligible to become a citizen of India at the time of commencement of the Constitution; or (b) belonging to a territory that became a part of India after 15 th August, 1947; or (c) being a citizen of India on or after 26 th January, 1950 These could be: (i) Copy of the passport :or (ii) Copy of the domicile certificate issued by the Competent authority ;or (iii) Any other proof substantiating the request. Usually applicants are able to submit a certificate of residence or place of birth of self/parents/grand parents from First Class Magistrate/District Magistrate (DM) of the concerned place. 3. Evidence of relationship as parent/grand parent, if their Indian origin is claimed as basis for grant of OCI such as birth certificate or Educational Certificate etc. 4. Application fee by way of Demand Draft (US $ 275 for each applicant or equivalent in local currency; US $ 25 or equivalent In local currency for each PIO card holder) in case of application filled in India, fee Rs.15,000/-for general category, for PIO card holders Rs.1,400/- and for minor PIO card holder Rs.8,000/- to be paid by way of Demand Draft. 5. PIO card holdersshould submit a copy of his/her PIO card. 9. What documents would qualify for “Any other proof” for evidence of self or parents or grand parents being eligible for grant of an OCI? Any documentary evidence like a school certificate, Agricultural land ownership certificate, birth certificate etc. by which eligibility may be reasonably ascertained. 10. How many copies of application have to be submitted? Only one Set of Application has to be submitted for each applicant. 11. Whether applicant(s) have to go in person to submit the application (s)? No. Application(s) can be sent by post either by Speed post or Registered post only and not through Courier. 12. Whether the applicant (s) have to take oath before the Counsel of the Indian Mission/Post? No. Earlier provision in this regard has been done away with. 13. Where to submit the application? To the Indian Mission/ Post of the country of citizenship of the applicant. If the applicant is not in the country of citizenship, to the Indian Mission/Post of the country where he is ordinarily residing. If the applicant is in India, to the FRRO Amritsar, Bangalore, Kozhikode, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkota, and Thiruvanathapuram as per specified Jurisdiction of the FRRO concerned. 14. Can a person apply in the country where he is ordinarily residing? Yes. 15. What are the consequences of furnishing wrong information or suppressing material information? All the applications will be subject to pre or post enquiry depending on whether any adverse information is voluntarily reported in the application or not. If the Government comes to the know that any false information was furnished or material information was suppressed, the registration as OCI already granted shall be cancelled by an order under section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955. The persons will also be blacklisted thereby banning his/her entry into India. 16. What is the fee for application for registrationas an OCI? US $ 275 or equivalent in local currency for each applicant. In case of PIO card holder, US $ 25 or equivalent in local currency for each applicant. In case of application filled in India, fee Rs.15,000/- for general category, for PIO card holders Rs.1,400/- and for minor PIO card holder Rs.8,000/- to be paid by way of Demand Draft. 17. What is the time taken for registration as OCI? Within 30 days of the application, if there is no adverse information available against the applicant. If any adverse information is available against the applicant, the decision to grant or otherwise is taken within 120 days. 18. If the registration as an OCI is not granted, what amount will be refunded? An amount of US $ 250 or equivalent in local currency shall be refunded, if registration is refused. US $ 25 is the processing fees, which is non-refundable. In case application filled in India, Rs.1,400/- will be nonrefundable being processing fees. 19. Can a PIO Cardholder apply? Yes, provided he/she is otherwise eligible for grant of OCI like any other applicant. 20. Will the PIO Cardholder be granted an OCI registration gratis? No. He/she has to make a payment of US $ 25 or equivalent in local currency along with the application & Rs.1,400/-in case of application is filled in India. 21. Will the PIO card be honored till the time it is valid even after acquisition of an OCI? No. PIO card will have to be surrendered to the Indian Mission/Post/FRROs before collection of OCI registration certificate and an OCI ‘U’ visa sticker. 22. What will be issued after registration as an OCI? A registration certificate in the form of a booklet will be issued and a multiple entry, multi-purpose OCI ‘U’ visa sticker will be pasted on the foreign passport of the applicant. For this purpose, the applicant has to produce the original passport to the Indian Mission/Post/FRROs after receipt of the acceptance letter/verifying the status of the application online. 23. Will a separate OCI passport be issued? No. 24. Will a duplicate certificate of registration as an OCI will be issued? Yes. For this purpose, an application has to be made to the Indian Mission/Post with evidence for loss of certificate. In the case of mutilated/damaged certificate an application has to be made enclosing the same. The applications in both the cases to be submitted to the concerned Indian Mission/ Post/FRRO along with payment of a fee of US $ 100 or equivalent in local currency & Rs.5,500/- in case of application is filled in India. 25. Will a new OCI visa sticker be pasted on the new foreign passport after the expiry of the old passport? Yes. On payment of requisite fee, a new OCI ‘U’ visa sticker will be issued. However, the applicant can continue to carry the old passport wherein the OCI ‘U’ visa sticker was pasted along with new passport for visiting India withoutseeking a new visa, as the visa is lifelong. 26. Will the applicantlose his citizenship after registering as an OCI? No. 27. Can a person registered as an OCI travel to protected area/restricted area without permission? No. He/she will be required to seek PAP/RAP for such visits. 28. Would the Indian civil/criminal laws be applicable to persons registered as OCI? Yes, for the period OCI is living in India. 29. Can a person registered as an OCI be granted Indian citizenship? Yes. As per the provisions of section 5(1) (g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955, a person who is registered as an OCI for 5 years and is residing in India for 1 year out of the above 5 years, is eligible to apply for Indian Citizenship. 30. Will an OCI be granted gratis to certain categories of people? No. 31. Can OCI be granted to foreign nationals who are not eligible for OCI, but married to persons who are eligible for OCI? No. 32. Will foreign-born children of PIOs be eligible to become an OCI? Yes, provided one of the parentsis eligible to become an OCI. 33. What are the benefits of an OCI? Following benefits will be allowed to an OCI: (i) Multiple entry, multi-purpose life long visa to visit India; (ii) Exemption from reporting to Police authorities for any length of stay in India; and (iii) Parity with NRIs in financial, economic and educational fields except in the acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties. (iv) Registered Overseas Citizen of India shall be treated at par with NonResident-Indian in the matter of inter-country adoption of Indian children. (v) Registered Overseas Citizens of India shall be treated at par with resident Indian nationals in the matter of tariffs in air fares in domestic sectors in India. (vi) Registered Overseas Citizens of India shall be charged the same entry fee as domestic Indian visitors to visit national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India (vii) Parity with Non-Resident Indian in respect of entry fees to be charged for visiting the national monuments, historical sites and museums in India; Pursuing the following professions in India, in pursuance of the provisions contained in the relevant Acts, namely:- (a) doctors, dentists, nurses and pharmacists; (b) advocates; (c) architects; (d) chartered accountants; (viii) Parity with Non-Resident Indian to appear for the All India Pre-medical Test or such other tests to make them eligible for admission in pursuance of the provisions contained in the relevant Acts. (ix) “State Governments should ensure that the OCI registration booklets of OCIs are treated as their identification for any services rendered to them. In case proof of residence is required, Overseas Citizens of India may give an affidavit attested by a notary public stating that a particular/specific address may be treated as their place of residence in India and may also in their affidavit give their overseas residential address as well as e-mail address, if any” 34. Will any other benefit be granted to an OCI? Any other benefits to an OCI will be notified by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) under Section 7B(1) of the Citizenship Act, 1955. 35. Is the OCI entitled to voting rights? No. 36. Is the OCI entitled to hold constitutional post in India? No. 37. Is the OCI entitled to hold Government posts in India? No, except for the posts specified by an order by the Central Government. 38. If a person is already holding more than one nationality, can he/she apply for OCI? Yes. 39. What are the advantages of the OCI when compared to PIO cardholders ? (i) An OCI is entitled to life long visa with free travel to India whereasfor a PIO card holder, it is only valid for 15 years. (ii) A PIO cardholder is required to register with local Police authority for any stay exceeding 180 days in India on any single visit whereas an OCI is exempted from registration with Police authority for any length of stay in India. (iii) An OCI gets a specific right to become an Indian Citizen as per Section 5(i) and (ii) of the Citizenship Act, 1955. whereasthe PIO card holder does not have this. 40. Whether an OCI be entitled to apply for and obtain a normal Indian passport which is given to a citizen of India? No. Indian Passports are given only to Indian citizen. 41. Whether nationals of Commonwealth countries are eligible for the OCI? Yes, if they fulfill the eligibility criteria. 42. Can a person renounce OCI? Yes. He/she has to declare intention of renunciation in Form XXII to the Indian Mission/Post where OCI registration was granted. After receipt of the declaration, the Indian Mission/Post/FRROs shall issue an acknowledgement in Form XXII A. 43. Do the applicants who have applied on the earlier prescribed application form have to apply again in the new form? No. All such applications will be considered for registration as an OCI withoutseeking fresh applications and fees. 44. Can an OCI holder undertake Research work in India? Yes, after getting prior approval/special permission from MHA. 45. Whether foreign military personnel are eligible for grant of OCI? NO, foreign military personnel either in service or retired are not entitled for grant of OCI. 46. Whether civil Govt. servant working in Ministry of Defence as IT engineers/civil contractors entitled for OCI? NO. 47. Which territories became part of India after 15.8.1947 and from what date?**

The territories, which became part of India after 15.8.1947 are:

- Sikkim from 26.4.1975

- Pondicherry from 16.8.1962

- Dadra & Nagar Haveli from 11.8.1961

- Goa from 19.12.1961 48. Can the spouse of the eligible person apply for OCI?**

Yes, if he /she is eligible in his / her own capacity. 49. Can children of parents, wherein one of the parents is eligible for OCI, apply for OCI card?**

Yes. They are eligible. 50.What documents have to be attached with the application?**

**FOR FRESH OCI CASES**

The following documents are required to be enclosed with each application:

1. Proof of present citizenship (Copy of current passport and Copy of resident card ).

2. Copy of Cancelled Indian Passport or Evidence of self or parents/grandparents/great grandparents :-

·         Being eligible to become a citizen of India on 26th January, 1950; or

·         Belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947; or

·         Being citizen of India on or after 26th January, 1950.

3. Surrender Certificate/Renunciation Certificate issued by Indian Embassy at the time of surrender of Indian passport.

4. Family Composition Certificate (Composition de Menage/Samenstelling) issued by the local commune/stud house/town hall.

_** The uploading of relevant documentary proof (i.e. scanned copy of Current Passport and cancelled Indian Passport) at the given column in the OCI application form is **mandatory**, failing which the application is liable to be rejected._

**FOR FRESH OCI CASES – MINOR APPLICANTS**

1. Proof of present citizenship (i.e. Copy of Current Passport and Copy of Resident Card of ).

2. Copy of Cancelled Indian Passport or Sworn Affidavit (for Indian origin applicants who never possessed Indian passport).

3. Copy of Surrender Certificate/Renunciation Certificate issued by Indian Embassy at the time of surrender of Indian passport.

4. Birth Certificate issued by the local commune/stud house/town hall.

5. Copy of Passport/OCI Card/Resident Card of both parents.

6. Family Composition Certificate (Composition de Menage/Samenstelling) issued by the local commune/stud house/town hall.

_** The uploading of relevant documentary proof (i.e. scanned copy of Current Passport, Birth Certificate (under option Relationship Certificate), cancelled Indian Passport and Indian Passport/OCI card of parent(s)) at the given column in the OCI application form is **mandatory**, failing which the application is liable to be rejected._

**FOR FOREIGN SPOUSE CASES**

1. Proof of present citizenship (Copy of current passport and Copy of resident card ).

2. Proof of Spouse being person of Indian Origin viz. Copy of Indian Passport or Copy of OCI card and his/her resident card.

3. Marriage Certificate (in English language), duly apostilled by the Foreign Ministry.

4. Proof of being married to person of Indian origin for at least 2 years, prior to date of application.

5. Family Composition Certificate

_* The uploading of relevant documentary proof (scanned copy of Current Passport, Indian Passport/OCI card of spouse and duly apostilled Marriage Certificate) at the given column in the OCI application form is **mandatory**, failing which the application is liable to be rejected._

_** In these cases OCI will be granted only after approvals from appropriate authorities in New Delhi, hence time limit of 60 working days do not apply._

**OCI MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES**

OCI Miscellaneous services can be availed for re-issuance/issuance of duplicate OCI Registration Certificate in the following category of cases:

·       In case of issuance of new passport (for OCI card holders below the age of 20)

·       In case of change of personal particulars viz. nationality etc.

·       In case of loss/damage of OCI registration certificate/visa.

·       In case of filling of wrong personal particulars while submitting online applications viz. name, father's name, date of birth etc.

·       In case of change of address/occupation

·       In case of holder of OCI attaining the age of 20 or 50, as the case may be.

The following documents are required to be enclosed with each OCI Misc. application:

1. Copy of New Passport

2. Copy of Resident Card

3. Copy of existing OCI Card

4. Copy of Passport/Resident Card/OCI card of parents (in case of minors)

5. Family Composition Certificate (Composition de Menage/Samenstelling) issued by the local commune/stud house/town hall.

6. In case of loss of OCI Card, Police Report filed in Belgium / Luxembourg is mandatory.

_* The uploading of relevant documentary proof (i.e. scanned copy of Current Passport and old OCI card {under option Indian Visa}) at the given column in the OCI application form is **mandatory**, failing which the application is liable to be rejected._ 51. Is carrying of OCI Card sufficient for entry into India?**

No. The OCI Card holder must carry the following documents his/her Valid Passport, OCI card and valid Resident Card. 52. Will the applicant lose his / her citizenship after registering as OCI?

No. Only citizens of a country, which allows dual citizenship under the local laws in some form or the other, are eligible for applying for registration as OCI. 53. Can a person holding OCI travel to protected area / restricted area without permission?

No. He / She will be required to seek Protected Area Permit (PAP)/ Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for such visits for which online portals have been made by respective State Governments for processing such cases as a direct interface between applicants and respective agency. The applicants may use the services of such portals themselves 54. Would the Indian civil/criminal laws be applicable to persons registered as OCI?**

Yes, during the period that the OCI holder is living in India. 55. Can a person registered as OCI be granted Indian citizenship?**

Yes. A person registered as OCI (i.e. having an OCI Card) is eligible to apply for grant of Indian citizenship under section 5(1)(g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955 if he / she is registered as OCI for five years and has been residing in India for one year out of the five years before making the application. 56. Can OCI be granted to foreign nationals who are not eligible for OCI, but married to persons who are eligible for OCI?

Yes, subject to clearance from competent authorities.
57. Can an OCI be entitled to apply for and obtain a normal Indian Passport, which is given to a citizen of India?**

No, an Indian Passport is only given to an Indian citizen. The Constitution of India does not permit the facility of holding Indian Citizenship simultaneously with a foreign citizenship. The OCI Card holder would therefore not be entitled to vote, be a member of Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council or Parliament, cannot hold constitutional posts such as President, Vice President, Judge of Supreme Court or High Court etc. and he / she cannot normally hold employment in the Government. 58. If a person is already holding more than one nationality, can he / she apply for OCI?

Yes, as long as the local laws of at least one of the countries allow dual citizenship in some form or other. 59. Can a person renounce OCI?

Yes. He / She has to declare intention of renunciation in Form XXII to the Indian Mission / Post where OCI registration was granted. After receipt of the declaration, the Indian Mission / Post shall issue an acknowledgement in Form XXIIA