OCI CARD

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Renunciation of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Registration
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What is an OCI Card?

An Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card is a life-long visa status provided to people of Indian origin and their spouses. It allows them to live, work, and stay in India indefinitely without ever needing a separate visa.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

You can apply for OCI if:

  • You were previously an Indian citizen (and have surrendered your Indian passport).
  • You are a child/grandchild/great-grandchild of an Indian citizen.
  • You are a spouse of foreign origin of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder (marriage must be registered and subsisted for at least 2 years).

Step 2: The Online Application

Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Government of India OCI Services website.

Fill Part A & Part B:

  • Part A: Personal details, family details, and passport information.
  • Part B: Declaration and details of previous Indian nationality.

Upload Documents (Crucial): All documents must be scanned in PDF format (max 1MB). You must upload:

  • Current Australian Passport (Bio-page).
  • Proof of Indian Origin (e.g., Cancelled Indian Passport with Surrender Certificate).
  • Australian Visa/Citizenship Certificate.
  • Marriage/Birth Certificate (if applying based on spouse or parents).

Upload Photo & Signature: * Photo: Must be 2×2 inches, white background, square aspect ratio.

  • Signature: Must be on plain white paper, scanned clearly.

Step 3: VFS Global Registration

Once you have your Online Application Reference Number (File No):

  1. Visit VFS Global Australia: Select “OCI Services.”
  2. Book an Appointment: Note: As many OCI applications must be submitted in person, for the latest on postal submissions.
  3. Pay Fees: For fee Check Official Website (including Consular Fee, ICWF, and VFS Service Fee).
    • Payment Method: Credit/Debit card (online or at the counter). Cash is generally not accepted at VFS counters.

Step 4: Document Submission

Prepare your physical folder. It should include:

  • Printed Application Form (Signed).
  • Original Australian Passport (For verification; usually returned immediately if submitting in person).
  • Self-Attested Photocopies of all uploaded documents.
  • Surrender Certificate (If you recently gave up Indian citizenship).
  • Checklist: Print the official OCI Checklist from the VFS website and tick off each item

Step 5: Tracking & Timeline

Processing Time: Usually 6 to 8 weeks.

Verification: Your application is sent to India for Ministry approval.

Collection: You will be notified via SMS/Email when your OCI card is ready. You can choose to have it couriered to your home for an additional fee.

How To Apply OCI Card

Step-by-Step Guide watch video

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