What is an OCI Card?
An OCI Card (Overseas Citizen of India) is a lifelong visa and identity card for foreign citizens of Indian origin. It allows non-resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign nationals of Indian descent to live, work, study, and travel in India with multiple benefits.
 Eligibility for OCI Card
You can apply for an OCI Card if you:
Were an Indian citizen on or after January 26, 1950
Are a child/grandchild/great-grandchild of an Indian citizen
Are a minor child with at least one Indian parent
Are a spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder (married for at least 2 years)
Note- Not eligible if ever a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh.
 Required Documents for OCI Card
Here are the common documents required:
| Document Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Proof of present nationality | Passport (valid for at least 6 months) |
| Proof of Indian origin | Old Indian passport, Indian birth certificate, etc. |
| Parent/grandparent proof | Indian passport or documents showing Indian lineage |
| Proof of relationship | Birth certificate, marriage certificate |
| Photograph & signature | As per size and format mentioned in the OCI portal |
| Additional (if applicable) | Spouse’s documents, naturalization certificate, etc. |
 Step-by-Step Process to Apply for OCI Card
 Step 1: Register on the OCI Portal
Visit: https://ociservices.gov.in
Choose OCI Registration (Fresh Application) and fill the online form (Part A & B).
 Step 2: Upload Documents & Photo
Upload scanned copies of required documents and a recent passport-size photograph (as per specs).
 Step 3: Submit and Print Application
Submit the online form, download the PDF copy, and print it.
  Step 4: Submit to Indian Mission/FRRO
Submit the printout with original documents to:
The Indian Embassy/Consulate (if applying from abroad), or
The FRRO office (if applying from India)
 Step 5: Pay the Fee
Fees vary by location, typically:
USD 275 (Fresh OCI from abroad)
INR ₹15,000 (if applying from India)
Payment is usually online or via demand draft.
 Step 6: Track & Collect OCI
Track your application status online. Once approved, your OCI card and lifelong visa are issued within 6–8 weeks.
 Importance and benefits of holding an OCI card
Multiple entry, lifelong visa to India
Definition of OCI (Overseas Citizen of India)
Difference between OCI and Indian citizenship
Key benefits (visa-free travel, property ownership, etc.)
Can live, work, or study in India indefinitely
Exempt from registering with FRRO
Equal rights to own property, open bank accounts, invest in India
Access to Indian medical, educational, and financial services
Faster immigration clearance at Indian airports
 Note: OCI cardholders cannot vote, hold public office, or buy agricultural land
OCI Card – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is an OCI Card?
Answer:
An OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) Card is a government-issued lifelong visa and identity card that allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to live, work, study, and travel in India without the need for a separate visa.
2. Who is eligible to apply for an OCI Card?
Answer:
You are eligible if you:
Were an Indian citizen on or after Jan 26, 1950
Are a child/grandchild/great-grandchild of an Indian citizen
Are a minor with one Indian parent
Are a spouse of an Indian citizen/OCI holder (married for 2+ years)
Note: Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals are not eligible.
3. Can I apply for an OCI Card if I was born in India but now hold a foreign passport?
Answer:
Yes, you are eligible as long as you can provide proof of your Indian origin, such as an old Indian passport, birth certificate, or documents of your Indian parents.
4. How long does it take to get an OCI Card?
Answer:
Processing usually takes 6 to 8 weeks, but it can vary depending on your location and document verification.
5. What is the cost of applying for an OCI Card?
Answer:
The standard fees are:
USD $275 if applying from outside India
INR ₹15,000 if applying from within India
Some additional charges may apply for postal or biometric services.
6. Do OCI cardholders need to register with FRRO?
Answer:
No, OCI cardholders are exempt from registering with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), regardless of length of stay.
7. Can I use the OCI Card for employment in India?
Answer:
Yes, OCI holders can work freely in India in both the private and public sectors, except for government jobs or services in defense, aviation, or political posts.
8. Does the OCI Card give me Indian citizenship?
Answer:
No, OCI is not Indian citizenship. It is a special category for foreign nationals of Indian origin and does not grant voting rights or eligibility to hold public office.
9. Can I buy property in India with an OCI Card?
Answer:
Yes, OCI cardholders can buy residential and commercial properties, but they cannot purchase agricultural land or farmland.
10. Is the OCI Card valid for life?
Answer:
Yes, but the physical OCI card must be re-issued when the passport is renewed:
Once at age 20 (after all passport changes are done)
Once after turning 50, due to facial changes