Fresh OCI card

The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card offers eligible foreign nationals of Indian origin a lifelong connection to India. It serves as a multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa that enables individuals to live, work, study, and travel in India without the need for repeated visa applications.

OCI is not dual citizenship, but it offers substantial rights and benefits that promote long-term engagement with India for the global Indian diaspora.

Once granted, the OCI cardholder enjoys:

• Lifelong visa-free travel to India

• Exemption from police registration, regardless of duration of stay

• Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in areas like education, financial investment, and economic opportunities (excluding acquisition of agricultural or plantation land)

• Use of OCI card as a valid identification document for opening bank accounts, applying for PAN cards, or obtaining a driver’s license in India

How to Apply:

1. Create an Account:
   Register on the Du Digital Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) website.
   [Click here to register].
2. Fill the Government of India’s Online Passport Application Form:

   • Visit the official OCI Services Portal.

   • Register using your email ID and create a login.

   • Fill out the OCI Application Form by selecting the appropriate category and entering all required details.

   • Upload the following:

     • Self-attested copies of all required documents

     • Recent passport-size photograph

     • Signature (or left-hand thumb impression in case of minors who cannot sign)

   • Each eligible individual, including minors, must submit a separate application under Section 7A.

     • For minors, the application can be signed by a parent, legal guardian, or the person with legal custody.

   • After submitting the online application, print the form that includes the Online Registration Number.

3. Book an Appointment:
   Schedule your visit to Du Digital ICAC by choosing a suitable date and time.
   [Click here to book your appointment]
4. Prepare Your Documents:
   Carry your passport, photographs, and all supporting documents as listed in the “Documents Checklist” section.
5. Visit Du Digital ICAC:
   Visit the designated ICAC (as per your jurisdiction). The address and location will be mentioned in your appointment letter. Ensure you arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time.
6. Submit Your Application & Pay Fees:
   Submit your documents and pay the applicable fees at ICAC.
   Refer to the “Fee Details” section for exact charges.
7. Enroll for Biometrics (if required):
   Complete biometric enrollment if applicable.
8. Application Submission Complete:
   You’ve successfully submitted your visa application.
9. Track Your Application:
   Monitor your application’s status online.
   [Click here to track your application].

Fees Details

FAQs:

1. Who is eligible to apply for an OCI card?
Individuals who were Indian citizens on or after 26 January 1950, or were eligible to become Indian citizens on that date, including their children and grandchildren, may apply.

Note: Citizens or former citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh are not eligible for OCI.

2. Is a Renunciation Certificate required before applying for OCI?
Yes. If you previously held Indian citizenship, you must obtain a Renunciation or Surrender Certificate before applying for an OCI card.

3. Can foreign spouses of Indian citizens apply for OCI?
Yes. A foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder can apply, provided the marriage has been registered and has existed continuously for at least 2 years prior to the date of application.

4. Are minor children eligible for OCI?
Yes. Minor children are eligible if one or both parents are Indian citizens or OCI cardholders. A birth certificate and proof of parental citizenship must be submitted.

5. Are individuals with military background eligible for OCI?
No. Foreign nationals who are currently serving or have previously served in any foreign military force, including civilian roles in defence departments, are not eligible.

6. What are the benefits of holding an OCI card?

• Life-long, multiple-entry visa to India
• Exemption from police registration, regardless of stay duration
• Equal treatment with NRIs in educational, financial, and economic fields (except purchase of agricultural land)
• Accepted ID for PAN card, driver’s license, and bank accounts in India

7. What are the restrictions on OCI cardholders?
OCI holders cannot:

• Vote in Indian elections
• Hold public office
• Acquire agricultural or plantation property
• Be employed in Indian government services
• Travel to protected/restricted areas without special permits
• Engage in missionary work, mountaineering, or journalism without prior approval

8. What documents are required for a fresh OCI application?
Key documents include:

• Valid foreign passport
• Indian origin proof (passport/certificate of parents or grandparents)
• Renunciation certificate (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (for spouse-based applications)
• Birth certificate (for minor applicants)

Refer to the Documents Checklist for a complete list.

9. Can I apply for OCI from outside India?
Yes. You can apply at the Indian Mission/Post in your country of residence. In South Korea, applications can be submitted through Du Digital Global ICAC with a prior appointment.

10. What is the processing time for a fresh OCI application?
Processing usually takes 6 to 8 weeks, depending on document verification and clearance. Applicants are notified by email/SMS, and status can be tracked on the OCI portal.