The Indian Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a lifetime visa that allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to live and work in India indefinitely. OCI card holders are also entitled to several other benefits, such as exemption from visa requirements and access to public education and healthcare.
Visas for Future provides assistance to foreign nationals applying for the India OCI Card. The process of applying is easy to follow. Applicants must determine their eligibility, complete an online application form, pay the fee, and submit necessary documents, including a scanned copy of their passport and a passport-size photo. Our service will process your application within two business days, after which you will receive your OCI card within seven to eleven weeks. Furthermore, If you encounter any difficulties or have questions while applying, our dedicated customer support team is available to assist you.
What We’re Offering
If you are a UK citizen of Indian origin, you may want to consider applying for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, our service will process your application within two business days, after which you will receive your OCI card within seven to eleven weeks.
Why choose us
Our order forms are easy and simple.
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How to Apply for an OCI Card for UK Citizens: A Complete Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
A foreign national is eligible for registration as an OCI cardholder if he/she:1
- Was a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after 26th January 1950.
- Was eligible to become a citizen of India on 26th January 1950.
- Belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15th August 1947.
- Is a child or a grandchild or a great-grandchild of such a citizen.
- Is a minor child of such persons mentioned above.
- Is a minor child whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India.
- Is a spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder and whose marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application.
Step 2: Complete The Online Application Form
To complete the order form, you need to provide detailed and accurate information:
- Complete name
- Email address
- Place of Submission
Step 3: Pay The Fee
Convenient Payment Options for Your India e-Visa Application
- Credit Cards: You can seamlessly pay using your Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover credit card.
- Debit Cards: Debit cards bearing the Visa or MasterCard logo are also accepted for payment.
Step 4: Complete The Intake Form
To complete the intake form, you need to provide detailed and accurate information:
- Personal information (e.g., name, date of birth, address, etc.)
- Passport information
- Proof of Indian origin
- Contact information
- Other relevant information:
For married applicants:
- Marital status
- Spouse’s information (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship (if applicable)
For financial stability verification:
- Employment status
- Previous work experience
- Relevant skillsReasons for leaving previous jobs (if applicable)
- Income and/or assets (may be required)
Travel information:
- Passport number
- Specify travel dates
- Outline travel plans
- Indicate accommodation preferences
- Indicate the cities of intended arrival and departure.
Step 5: Submit application:
- Before submitting your application, thoroughly review your personal information, intake form answers, and uploaded documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Requirements for an OCI card for UK Citizens
The documents required for an India OCI are as follows:2
- Proof of present citizenship.
- Evidence of address of the place of application.
- In case the application is submitted in India, a copy of any long-duration Visa is required.
- Evidence of self or parents or grandparents or great grandparents.
- Evidence of relationship as parent/ grandparent/great-grandparent, if their Indian origin is claimed as basis for registration as OCI Cardholder.
- In the case of a minor child whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India,
- Copy of child’s Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate of parents (if no marriage certificate is available, reasons for same to be indicated)
- Copy of Indian passport of the parents / one of the parents or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the parents/ one of the parents or any other proof substantiating the status of the parents/ one of the parents as being Indian citizen(s).
- If the parents are divorced, the court orders the dissolution of marriage, which specifically mentions that the legal custody of the child is with the parent who is applying for the OCI Card. If the court order is in any foreign language, translation in English or Hindi by an authorized translator is to be enclosed.
- Evidence as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign.
- Origin of an OCI Cardholder.
Please note:
- It is mandatory to upload an applicant’s image and signature image during OCI registration.
- Both the images must be in jpeg or jpg format, with a max size of 1 MB.
- The height and width of the applicant’s photo must be equal.
- The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) and 200 pixels (height).
- The maximum dimensions are 350 pixels (width) and 350 pixels (height).
- The height and width of the signature photo must have an aspect ratio of 1:3.
- The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) and 67 pixels (height).
- The maximum dimensions are 350 pixels (width) and 250 pixels (height).
Advantages and disadvantages of applying for an Indian OCI card
Advantages of applying for an Indian OCI card
- Visa-free travel and long-term stay: OCI cardholders enjoy visa-free travel to India and can stay for an indefinite period without registering with local police authorities. This makes it convenient for frequent visits and longer stays.
- Right to work and study: OCI cardholders have the right to work and study in India without any prior registration or permission. This opens up opportunities for career advancement and education within the country.
- Parity with NRIs in financial and economic matters: OCI cardholders enjoy parity with NRIs in accessing financial services, owning property (except agricultural land), and investing in businesses. This simplifies financial transactions and business ventures within India.
- Multiple entry and lifelong validity: The OCI card serves as a lifelong, multiple-entry visa, eliminating the need for frequent visa renewals and simplifying travel planning.
- Cultural and emotional connection: OCI card allows you to stay connected with your Indian roots, family, and friends. You can participate in cultural events, own property (excluding agricultural land), and immerse yourself in Indian life.
Disadvantages of applying for an Indian OCI card
- Dual citizenship not allowed: India does not recognize dual citizenship. You will need to surrender your Indian passport if you are already an Indian citizen to apply for an OCI card.
- Restrictions on land ownership: OCI cardholders cannot purchase agricultural land in India, although they can inherit it. This may limit investment opportunities in certain sectors.
- Limited political rights: OCI cardholders cannot vote or hold elected office in India. This restricts your participation in the political process.
- Bureaucratic process: The application process for an OCI card can be lengthy and complex, requiring various documents and fees.
- Possible delays and rejections: Applications can face delays and even rejections due to incomplete documentation or technical issues.
Cost and processing time
The cost of an OCI card through Visas for Future is $368, covering the government fee. While the standard processing time for an OCI card is usually two (2) business days, the final card is expected to be received within 7-11 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel to India while OCI is in process?
Yes, you can travel to India while your OCI is in process, but you need to have a valid visa or travel authorization to enter the country.
Can I travel to India without an OCI card?
Yes.
Can OCI holders live permanently in India?
Yes, OCI holders can live in India indefinitely, meaning they are not restricted to a specific duration of stay.
Is it better to get an OCI or an Indian visa?
Choosing between an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card and an Indian visa depends on your circumstances and visit purpose. The OCI card is ideal for long-term stays, offering multiple entries and permitting certain professional activities. Conversely, an Indian visa may be suitable for shorter visits like tourism or business meetings, with a simpler application process. Decide based on your specific needs, duration, and the nature of your stay in India.
- Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. (n.d). Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)”, Retrieved January 24, 2024, <https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-07/oci-faq.pdf> [↩] [↩] [↩]
- Embassy of India, Manila, Philippines. (2021, April 22). www.eoimanila.gov.in. <https://www.eoimanila.gov.in/eoi.php?id=oci/> [↩]
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Cite this article
MLA Style
Miguel, Charlyn. "Indian OCI application process for UK citizens 2024." Visas For Future, https://www.visasforfuture.com/indian-oci-application-process-uk/. Accessed on 8 October 2023.
Chicago Style
Miguel, Charlyn. "Indian OCI application process for UK citizens 2024." Visas For Future. October 8, 2023. https://www.visasforfuture.com/indian-oci-application-process-uk/.