<p>OCI stands for Overseas Citizenship of India. It is issued by the Government of India to people of Indian origin who are living abroad. The OCI card offers several benefits and has lifetime validity, so holders do not need to renew it repeatedly. It functions like a visa for individuals who hold a passport from another country but have migrated from India or were born to Indian parents residing abroad.</p>
<p>A person can obtain an OCI card by filling out an application form, submitting the required documents, and paying the applicable fees. However, not everyone is familiar with the OCI card application process. In this blog, we will explain how to fill out the OCI card application, the required documents, processing time, and the fees involved.</p>
<h2>What is the OCI Card Application?</h2>
<p>OCI (overseas citizen of India) card is provided to a person of Indian origin residing abroad. It is like an immigration status for such people to live, travel, and work in India for as long as they want. It was introduced in August 2005 to fulfill the demands of the Indian diaspora who were living in other countries and who demanded dual citizenship.</p>
<p>It was issued under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2005. An OCI application form is the official document that one has to fill out when one wants to apply for an OCI card. You have to personal information, supporting documents, etc. to fill out that application form.</p>
<h2>Step-by-Step Guide to Filling an OCI Card Application</h2>
<p>You can fill out the application form for multiple reasons such as to apply for a new OCI card, reissue an OCI card, or renew an OCI card. The steps are almost similar to filling out the application form. Follow the below-mentioned steps to fill out an OCI card application without any hassle.</p>
<h3>Step 1: Fill Application</h3>
<p>The first step before filling out an OCI application online form is to gather all the necessary documents. Documents are necessary for the application process. You have to submit every required document to apply for an OCI card.</p>
<p>The document may vary according to different individuals and situations so make sure to check the document requirements according to your situation and gather it before you start the application process. This will make your application process easier and smooth.</p>
<h3>Step 2: Visit the Official OCI Website</h3>
<p><strong><img title="OCI Application Platform" src="https://visament.com/editor_image/mceu_15940425411727090823527_1727090824.jpg" alt="Online OCI Services" width="1043" height="526"></strong></p>
<p>The second step in the application process is to fill out the application form online. Visit the Official website of OCI registration or VFS Global and then click on “New OCI registration”. You can choose according to your requirements if you want to apply for a new OCI card or reissue an OCI card. The VFS Global service center also helps with <a href="https://visament.com/uk/indian-passport">Indian passport</a> renewal in UK.</p>
<p>After selecting you will get a captcha security question which you need to answer and then click on “Enter”. After that, you have to choose:” fresh application” and any country as the place of submission.</p>
<p><img title="Fill the Captcha" src="https://visament.com/editor_image/mceu_62858968721727090896754_1727090897.jpg" alt="New OCI Registration" width="1048" height="501"></p>
<p><strong><img title="Select the Process" src="https://visament.com/editor_image/mceu_13473912631727091015038_1727091015.jpg" alt="fresh application" width="926" height="258"></strong></p>
<h3>Step 3: Fill Required Details</h3>
<p>Fill out all the information required like passport details, occupation, personal information, etc. All the information must be accurate and relevant. You cannot make any mistakes in your application.</p>
<p>You will get a temporary application ID in red color at the top right section of your OCI form as you proceed further with your application form. You have to keep this ID as a note because it will act as a reference number for accessing your application later. Save your application after verifying the details and move on to the next section</p>
<p><img title="OCI Registration Form" src="https://visament.com/editor_image/mceu_50768595841727091082365_1727091083.jpg" alt="OCI Form" width="1359" height="636"></p>
<p>Note: Make sure that every detail that you enter in this section must be similar to the details of your current foreign passport and not your Indian passport. Provide details that are relevant to avoid the rejection of your OCI application. <strong><br></strong></p>
<h3>Step 4: Click Save &amp; Continue</h3>
<p>After filling out the form click on “Update and continue” to move to the next part of the application. The next section will be page 2 of part A of the application. In this section, you will have to fill out all the details related to your address and occupation.</p>
<p>You will have to fill in your occupation details, present address, and native place address. After filling out all the information correctly. Move on to the next step by clicking on” Next”. You should keep this thing in mind if you add irrelevant or incorrect details your application may get rejected and you will have to start the application process from the beginning.</p>
<p>Before submitting after this section Recheck every information and detail that you have entered in the application form. You will not be allowed to make any changes to the application form after submitting it. Click on “Modify” if you want to edit anything before submitting it further.</p>
<h3>Step 5: Review All Information Carefully</h3>
<p>After checking and making sure that all the information is accurate and relevant. Click on the “Submit” button to apply. You will get a confirmation message upon the successful submission of your application along with an OCI file reference number that begins with GRBL. You have to save this reference number as it is your OCI registration number.</p>
<p>You have to use this number to book your VFS appointment to submit your OCI application physically at the VFS Global Center along with the other documents.</p>
<h3>Step 6: Upload All Documents</h3>
<p>Now you are done with part A of <span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">your</span><strong> </strong><a href="https://visament.com/uk/oci-card">Card Application in the UK</a> then comes part B. In part B you will have to upload all the required documents with your photographs and signature. You need to upload colored square-sized photographs and signatures according to the specific size and ratio. The photographs and the signature must meet the guidelines and must be clear and visible. Check the clarity, ratio, and format of the images and upload them, and then click on “Proceed to upload documents”.</p>
<p>After clicking on that, you will have to fill in the information in three sections. The sections will be Citizenship details, present nationality details, and other details. Once you have filled all the sections click on “Submit” to proceed after which you will directed to a confirmation screen.</p>
<h3>Step 7: Complete Payment for Your OCI Card</h3>
<p>After applying and uploading the documents. The final step is to pay the <a href="https://visament.com/blog/procedure-to-apply-for-oci-card-uk-application"><strong>OCI Card UK fees</strong></a> online. You have to pay this fee only one time because the OCI card has lifelong validity. Make the payment online and keep a record of the payment made to use it in the future as a reference.</p>
<p>Once you are done with making the payment and submitting the application. Now you have to book an appointment with VFS Global service. You have to visit the VFS Global service website to get your appointment scheduled. Choose the nearest application center and a convenient date and time according to you.</p>
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<h3>Step 8: Book Your VFS Appointment</h3>
<p>On the day of your scheduled appointment, you have to printed visit the selected VFS application center physically. You have to take your printed OCI application form, original documents, photocopies, and everything required according to the checklist given by VFS Global.</p>
<p>You have to provide your biometric data, photographs, and fingerprint too. You will be assisted by the staff at the VFS Global application center so that you don’t miss out on anything and everything will be done in order. <strong><br></strong></p>
<h3>Step 9: Get an Email Confirmation</h3>
<p>When your application is processed, you will receive an e-mail from VFS Global informing you about the status of your OCI card update. You can keep track of your OCI card application status on the portal of VFS Global. If your application gets approved you can visit the VFS Global application center again to collect your OCI card and Original British passport.</p>
<p>You can follow these steps to successfully fill out an OCI application form and get an OCI card. You can keep checking the status of your OCI card online and the <a href="https://visament.com/blog/processing-time-for-oci-application-usa">processing time for OCI application USA</a> or anywhere may vary. OCI card has multiple benefits and you can explore various adventures, cultural heritage, landscapes, etc. in India with the help of an OCI card. VFS Global also provides an<strong> </strong><a href="https://visament.com/blog/how-to-fill-indian-passport-renewal-application-form-uk">Indian passport renewal<strong> </strong>application form UK. </a></p>
<h2>Documents Needed for an OCI Card Application</h2>
<p>There are some required documents that you need to submit to get an OCI card. The documents may vary according to specific situations and individuals. Make sure to verify the checklist for the OCI card application documents required to not miss out on any of the documents.</p>
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; width: 100%;" border="1"><colgroup> <col style="width: 41.2357%;"> <col style="width: 58.7643%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<th style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: center;">Type of Application</th>
<th style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px;">Documents Required</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<p>Documents for a New/fresh OCI card</p>
</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Checklist</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Address proof</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">OCI card Fee proof</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Two Photographs</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Online application form</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Surrender/ renunciation certificate</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Both original and copy of Indian passport</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Both original and copy Foreign citizenship certificate</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Both original and copy Canadian/foreign passport</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The applicant’s professional details</li>
</ol>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<p>Documents for OCI Card renewal, reissue of OCI, or conversion of PIO to OCI</p>
</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fees</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Checklist</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Address proof</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Online application form</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The applicant’s professional details</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Surrender/ renunciation certificate</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Original and copy of the Existing OCI card or PIO card</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">For damaged OCI card cases: an original enclosed damaged OCI card</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">For lost OCI card cases: a police report for lost OCI</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Note: Check The Full Guide with Steps For <a href="https://visament.com/blog/how-to-renew-oci-card-in-usa">How To Renew your OCI Card in the USA?</a></li>
</ol>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<p>Documents for OCI Card Application for Minor Children</p>
</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fees</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Checklist</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">An NOC signed by both the parents</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A copy of the parent’s passport</li>
</ol>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<p>Documents for OCI card Application For Indian origin on a Spouse Basis</p>
</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; border-color: #ffffff; padding: 5px; text-align: left;">
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fees</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Checklist</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Photograph</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Address proof</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Online application form</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Spouse’s Indian passport</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The applicant’s professional details</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Attested copy of the marriage/registered certificate</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Canadian/foreign passport (both original and copy)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">If the spouse is an Indian/foreign (non-Canadian) citizen then their status in Canada</li>
</ol>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>These are the documents that you have to submit if you are applying for a fresh OCI card or <a href="https://visament.com/blog/oci-card-renewal-fees-documents-eligibility-criteria">OCI Card Renewal</a>. Make sure to check the information booklet before submitting the documents. All the documents must be uploaded clearly and legibly.</p>
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<h2>How to Track Your OCI Card Application After Submission</h2>
<p>The applicant can track the status updates of their <a href="https://visament.com/usa/oci-card">OCI Card Application USA</a> online. They can visit the VFS Global Service Center. The applicant will have to use their government reference number (ARN number), file number, or application ID along with their date of birth to track their application. Here is a step-by-step procedure to follow to track the status of your application:</p>
<ul>
<li>Visit the official website of OCI services where you have already registered.</li>
<li>You can also visit the <a href="https://manage.visament.com/admin/blog/13/www.ociservices.gov.in">OCI Services Portal</a>.</li>
<li>After that, you have to click on “OCI Enquiry.”</li>
<li>Next, click on “Click Here to Proceed.”</li>
<li>Select “Status Enquiry” from the various options.</li>
<li>Click on “Proceed.”</li>
<li>After that, a new page will appear where the applicant has to enter the passport number and either the online registration number or acknowledgment number.</li>
<li>You will have to enter the captcha code and click on “Get Status.”</li>
<li>You can now track your application and check your <a href="https://visament.com/blog/how-to-check-oci-application-status">OCI Application Status</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>You can also purchase their SMS service when you are making your online payment for the application with which you will get texts on SMS whenever there are some critical changes in the status of your application.</p>
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<h2>Avoid These Common Mistakes When Filling Your OCI Application</h2>
<p>There is a possibility that you end up making some mistakes while filling out the application form for an OCI card or when <span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">you <a href="https://visament.com/uk/apply-uk-visa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">apply</a></span><a href="https://visament.com/visa/IN/uk-visa" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> UK Visa</a>. However, it is important to not make any mistakes in your application because an error can even lead to the rejection of your application. These are some common mistakes that you need to avoid while filling out the OCI application:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Avoid Incorrect Details:</strong> Many applicants make mistakes when filling out the form in a hurry, such as entering details that don’t match their official documents. Ensure that all information matches your official records to avoid rejection.</li>
<li><strong>Double-Check Spelling and Dates:</strong> Simple errors like wrong dates of birth or misspellings can lead to delays or rejection. Carefully review all details before submitting — even if you think it’s correct.</li>
<li><strong>Upload High-Quality Photos and Signatures:</strong> Low-quality photos and signatures can cause your application to be rejected. Make sure to upload clear, high-resolution images in the specified format.</li>
<li><strong>Submit Within 90 Days:</strong> After filling out the application, you must submit it within <strong>90 days</strong>. Failing to do so can result in rejection, so avoid delays.</li>
<li><strong>Provide All Required Documents:</strong> Submitting incomplete documentation will lead to rejection. Ensure you upload all required documents in the correct format as specified on the official website.</li>
<li><strong>Need Help with Documentation?</strong> Don’t miss our guide on <a href="https://visament.com/blog/indian-passport-renewal-in-usa-checklist">Indian Passport Renewal in USA Checklist</a> for a detailed checklist.</li>
</ul>
<p>One must avoid these common mistakes to get their OCI card approved as soon as possible. These are some very silly mistakes that might not sound like a big deal but it is. You will not be allowed to make any changes after applying, and if any error is found, then the application may even get rejected. You will have to apply from the start, and repeating the whole process can be frustrating. Before applying, it’s helpful to understand the <a href="https://visament.com/blog/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-oci-card"><strong>advantages and disadvantages of OCI card</strong></a> ownership to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary errors.</p>
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<h2>Who is Eligible to Apply for an OCI Card?</h2>
<p>The OCI card mainly focuses on individuals who are of Indian origin and their descendants who are citizens of other countries. There are some eligibility criteria to apply for an OCI application form which are:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950:</strong> An individual who is a citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950, or who was eligible to become a citizen of India at that time and whose family is eligible for an OCI status is eligible.</li>
<li><strong>Foreign Spouse of an Indian Citizen:</strong> A foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder is eligible to apply. They must have been married for two years and the marriage must be valid as per the laws of India.</li>
<li><strong>Minor Children of an Indian Citizen:</strong> Minor children of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder can apply regardless of the nationality of that child’s parents.</li>
<li><strong>Renounced Indian Citizenship:</strong> An individual who was a citizen of India but later renounced their Indian citizenship can also apply (subject to certain conditions).</li>
<li><strong>Territories Merged with India:</strong> An individual who belonged to a territory that became a part of India after August 15, 1947, can apply for an <a href="https://visament.com/uk/oci-card" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OCI Card UK Application</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h2>OCI Card Application Fees &amp; Processing Time</h2>
<p>There are some fees that you need to pay for the application to be processed and approved. The amount that you have to pay will depend on the situation:</p>
<table style="width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; border-width: 1.5px; border-spacing: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;" border="1"><colgroup> <col style="width: 84.3729%;"> <col style="width: 15.6271%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left; border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">Issue of OCI card</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">$293.90</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left; border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">OCI cards in case of lost/damaged/stolen OCI Card</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">$118.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left; border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">For miscellaneous service on the OCI card</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">$43.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left; border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">For issuing an OCI card to a PIO card</td>
<td style="border-width: 1.5px; padding: 5px; border-color: #ffffff;">$118.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<ul>
<li>A refund is allowed under certain conditions, after deducting $59 as administrative costs.</li>
<li>Opting for Tatkal service will require an additional fee on top of the standard charges.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Processing time for OCI Applications</h2>
<p>The processing time for every OCI card application will vary depending on the situation. The normal processing time for a new OCI according to India origin is 5-6 weeks from the date you have applied. If you have opted for the Tatkal service then you may get your OCI card within 4-5 working days.</p>
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<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>You must keep the OCI card application tracking to stay updated about the status of your application. Filling out the application form for an OCI card may seem tough and frustrating but if you do it the right way and be prepared in advance then it can be done easily. You can consider this guide to fill out the application form and enjoy the benefits of an OCI. Make sure to check every detail carefully before submitting it further and upload all the required documents clearly in the proper format.</p>
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