General information related to OCI

• What is the procedure and eligibility to apply for an OCI?

Answer. The service of OCI is outsourced to VFS Global Services by HCI London, for information visit link 
https://www.vfsglobal.com/india/uk/OCI.html You can also call their helpline at 02037938629/02037884666. If still you have any query please call PRU on 020-78369147or drop an email at 
[email protected] / [email protected]

• How to check the OCI application status?

Answer. Please check your OCI status online https://ociservices.gov.in/statusEnqury with the help of your passport number and online registration number.

• What is the status of my OCI application as it has been past the normal processing time?

Answer. Please drop us an email at [email protected] with the applicant’s full name, DOB, Passport number, OCI file acknowledgement number to know the status.

• How can I apply for Nativity Certificate?

Answer. The Nativity certificate is to be applied directly in India at one’s place of birth. The application for the same can be obtained from in.vfsglobal.co.uk. The Nativity Certificate should be certified by the District Magistrate/District Collector of the area with name, stamp, seal and contact telephone numbers with area code for verification. The Nativity Certificate is to be applied in India with the concerned District Magistrate/District Collector where applicant, applicant’s either parent or either grandparent were born or resided.

• What is the normal processing time? 

Answer.  The time taken for issue of OCI Card is minimum 4-6 weeks, delay beyond the specific time frame cannot be ruled out owing to certain technical reasons. All applicants are advised to book their travel plan only after obtaining the OCI. For spouse cases, it may take more time.

• Is it mandatory to have a Life Long Visa Sticker (OCI) in the foreign Passport?

Answer. No, the life Long Visa Sticker process has been discontinued by Government of India. Applicants are required to carry Valid OCI Card with current foreign passport (endorsed on the OCI Booklet).

• Can i still use my PIO card to travel to India?

Answer. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has mandated that international travel documents should be machine readable with effect from 1st October, 2018. Therefore, it is necessary upon PIO Card holders to obtain machine readable OCI Cards in lieu of handwritten valid PIO Cards. The Indian Immigration Authorities will continue to consider valid PIO Cards for entry/exit into/from India till 31-12-2021 along with foreign passport. However, PIO Card holders are advised to get their PIO Card converted to OCI Card. PIO Card holders can apply online for conversion at http://passport.gov.in/oci/ and submit print of application, passport, specified photos, documentation, fees etc at the VFS Centre (www.vfsglobal.com/India/UK ).The charges for conversion of PIO to OCI are £ 75/- plus VFS service charges.

• Is it mandatory to transfer OCI to your latest passport whenever your passport gets renewed below the age of 20 or above the age of 50?

Answer. Re-issuance of OCI is mandatory every time passport is renewed up to the age of 20 years, and once on acquiring a new passport, after completing 50 years of age, in view of frequent biological changes in facial features in this age group. 

• How to apply for Transfer of OCI from old to new passport/Change in nationality/lost or damage of OCI booklet or passport/Change of Personal Particulars and how long it will take? 

Answer. You are required to apply through OCI Miscellaneous services for all the above. For detailed application procedure visit link: Click here
The turn round time for all services including, new/renewal/online gratis service will take between 5 - 6 weeks.

• What are the Benefits for an OCI card holder:

Answer. A multiple entry, multi-purpose life-long visa for visiting India. Exemption from registration with local police authority for any length of stay in India. Parity with Non-resident Indians (NRIs) in respect of economic, financial and educational fields, except in relation to acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties. 

• What benefits an OCI Card holder is not entitled to?

Answer. An OCI card holder is not entitled to undertake any Journalistic, Filming of Documentary, Missionary, Mountaineering and Research work in India. They need prior approval from concerned Department/Ministry of the Government of India before undertaking such activities. The OCI Card holder is not entitled to vote. He/she cannot normally hold employment in the Government sector.

• Can I apply OCI on spouse basis?

Answer Yes, you may qualify for an OCI based on your spouse if you have a registered marriage certificate & your spouse holds a valid Indian passport or OCI card, and your marriage has subsisted for at least 2 + years.