An OCI card is a document that grants Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status to eligible individuals of Indian origin. However, it is not full citizenship, but rather a form of long-term residency with specific rights and privileges in India. These include visa-free travel, work and study opportunities, and property ownership. While the OCI card signifies a permanent residency option for individuals of Indian origin and their spouses, it does not grant them the same rights as Indian citizens, such as the right to vote or hold public office. However, it’s important to note that only registered OCI cardholders can access OCI Miscellaneous Services.1
India OCI card miscellaneous services are the services that OCI cardholders can avail in the following situations:1
- If they want to update their latest passport details, (required each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age).
- If they want to re-issue their OCI cards due to a change of personal particulars, such as name, father’s name, nationality, etc., or due to loss or damage of the OCI card. These services require a fee and a new OCI card will be issued.
- If they want to renounce their OCI card and surrender it to the Indian authorities.
- In the case of manually filled-in applications (discontinued now), mistakes have been committed by the Indian Mission/Post/Office while entering the personal particulars.
- In case of a change of address/occupation.
If you are a foreign national of Indian origin, it is essential to consider applying for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. With Visas for Future, we can assist you in ensuring that your India OCI application process is handled seamlessly, starting from the initial submission of your OCI application. Our guidance and monitoring of the India OCI process are thorough, ensuring a well-supported experience. If you encounter any issues or problems during the application process, our professional customer service team is dedicated to providing support and addressing all your queries.
What We’re Offering
If you are a foreign national 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.
- Unlimited stay.
- Multiple entries.
- $368 fee (Including Government fee).
- You can apply for the card in 2 business days, but it will take 7-11 weeks to receive it.
- Form validation included.
- We plant a tree for every OCI sold.
Why choose us
Our order forms are easy and simple.
We validate your application.
We answer your questions.
We plant a tree!
Who can avail of the OCI Miscellaneous Services?
Only a registered Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder can avail of OCI Miscellaneous Services, which encompass various facilities and updates such as passport details, changes in personal particulars, and re-issuance processes.1
Reasons for re-issuance of new OCI card
There are three main reasons why someone might need to re-issue their OCI card:
1. Issuance of a new passport (once a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age): This is the most common reason for re-issuance. When you get a new passport after turning 20, your OCI card needs to be updated with the new passport information. This is because the OCI card is linked to your passport and serves as proof of your Overseas Citizen of India status.
2. In case of change of personal particulars: This includes changes like:
- Name: If you get married or or divorced or legally change your name.
- Father’s name: If your father’s name changes due to any reason.
- Nationality: If you acquire a new nationality after acquiring your OCI card.
- Address: If you move to a new country or within your current country.
It’s important to update your OCI card with any changes in your particulars to maintain its accuracy and validity.
3. In case of loss/damage of the OCI registration certificate: If your OCI card is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond repair, you can apply for a re-issue. This will involve providing a police report (if stolen) and other documents as required by the OCI Services website.
What are the documents needed to avail of the OCI Miscellaneous Services?
The required documents for OCI Miscellaneous Services vary based on whether you are seeking to update your information or request a re-issuance of your card. It’s important to note that to utilize OCI Miscellaneous Services, you must already be an OCI cardholder. This service provides the opportunity to either update your information or request the re-issuance of your OCI card.2
The documents required to avail of the OCI Miscellaneous Services depend on the specific service you are applying for. Here’s a breakdown of the documents needed for different scenarios:
1. Re-issuance of OCI Card:
- Current OCI Card: Original OCI card along with a photocopy of both the front and back sides.
- Photo: Two recent passport-size photographs with a white background.
- Application Form: A duly filled and signed online application form.
- Passport: Copy of the first and last pages of your current passport.
- Proof of Address: Original and copy of proof of address in the country of residence.
- Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the applicable fee.
2. Update of Personal Particulars:
- Current OCI Card: Original OCI card along with a photocopy of both the front and back sides.
- Photo: One recent passport-size photograph with a white background.
- Application Form: A duly filled and signed online application form specifying the changes you want to make.
- Documents supporting the change: Documents like marriage certificate, divorce decree, passport copy showing the change, etc., depending on the specific update you request.
- Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the applicable fee.
3. Additional Documents:
- In case of issuance of a new passport: Copy of the first and last pages of your new passport after completing 20 years of age.
- For Minors: If the applicant is a minor, the birth certificate and a copy of the parent’s passport or OCI card are also required.
- Loss/Damage of OCI Card: In case you are applying for a duplicate OCI card due to loss or damage, you need to submit a police report and an affidavit stating the circumstances.
General Notes:
- All documents should be self-attested.
- Photocopies should be clear and legible.
- Documents should be in English or translated into English by a certified translator.
- You may be required to submit additional documents depending on your specific circumstances.
OCI Miscellaneous Services Checklist
The OCI Miscellaneous Services Checklist is as follows:
For Adults:
- Completed Miscellaneous Services Application Form
- Passport Size Photo
- Self-Attested Copy of Proof of Status:
- Green Card
- Visa
- Visa Extension Documents (if applicable)
- Self-Attested Copy of Proof of Residence:
- State Issued ID OR
- Driving License OR
- Utility Bill (Water, Gas, Electricity) OR
- Valid Lease Agreement OR
- Mortgage OR
- Income Tax Return OR
- College/University Letterhead (if applying as a student)
- Notarized Copy of Passport:
- Current Passport
- Old Passport (if applicable)
- Self-Attested Copy of Marriage Certificate (if applicable):
- Registered Marriage Certificate
- Spouse’s Passport Copy (Front and Last Page)
- Self-Attested Copy of Divorce Certificate (if applicable):
- Divorce Certificate
- UK Address Proof (if applicable):
- Employment Letter OR
- Student ID OR
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Cashier’s Cheque (no cash please):
- Drawn in favor of “CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, SAN FRANCISCO”
- Amount as specified in the Fee Schedule
- Pre-Paid Return Mailing Envelope:
- Trackable envelope
- Sufficient postage
- Use USPS Express Mail, UPS, etc.
- FedEx is not accepted
For Minors:
- Completed Miscellaneous Services Application Form
- Passport Size Photo
- Self-Attested Copy of Proof of Status:
- Father’s Passport OR
- Mother’s Passport
- Visa
- Self-Attested Copy of Proof of Residence:
- Parent’s Passport Copy (Front and Last Page) OR
- Utility Bill
- School Certificate
- Notarized Copy of Passport:
- Current Passport
- Self-Attested Copy of Marriage Certificate of Parents:
- Registered Marriage Certificate
- Parent’s Passport Copy (Front and Last Page)
- Self-Attested Copy of Divorce Certificate of Parents (if applicable):
- Divorce Certificate
- UK Address Proof (if applicable):
- Parent’s Employment Letter OR
- Parent’s Student ID OR
- Parent’s Certificate of Incorporation
- Cashier’s Cheque (no cash please):
- Drawn in favor of “CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, SAN FRANCISCO”
- Amount as specified in the Fee Schedule
- Pre-Paid Return Mailing Envelope:
- Trackable envelope
How to Avail the OCI Miscellaneous Services?
Here’s how you can avail the OCI Miscellaneous Services:
1. Choose your service:
- Re-issue of OCI card: Lost, damaged, expired, or new passport.
- Update particulars: Address, phone, occupation, etc.
- Duplicate documents: Lost/damaged OCI card or U-visa sticker.
- Renunciation of OCI: Formally surrender your OCI status.
2. Gather your documents:
- Copy of your new passport (signed photo page).
- Current OCI card (first & last page). (Except new issuance)
- Old British passport with OCI visa page (if applicable).
- Proof of address (recent): Utility bill, ID, lease, etc.
- Additional documents for specific services:
- Marriage certificate, divorce decree, employment letter, etc.
- Police report (lost/stolen card).
3. Apply online:
- Head to the online services website to make your selection.
- Choose your service and fill out the online form accurately.
- Double-check the information and upload the required documents.
- Pay the applicable fee.
4. Submit and track:
- Submit your application and get an email acknowledgment.
- You’ll receive a link to track your application status online.
- Await permission and follow up with the embassy if needed.
How much does it cost to avail the OCI Miscellaneous Services?
The fee to avail of the OCI Miscellaneous Services depends on the specific service you need. Here’s a breakdown:
- Re-issuing OCI documents: US $25 or equivalent local currency.
- Issuing duplicate OCI documents (lost/damaged): US $100 or equivalent local currency.
- In case of application filled in India:
- Rs.1,290/– for re-issuance of OCI documents.
- Rs.5,170/– for issuance of duplicate OCI documents (for loss/damage).
How long does it take to process the re-issuance/issuance of duplicate OCI?
The processing time for OCI card re-issuance or duplicate is typically 45 working days, starting from the date when your application is accepted.
Guidelines for India OCI Card for Old Passport Holders
There are some important guidelines for OCI card renewal when you have an old passport:
General requirements:
- You must be a registered OCI cardholder.
- You must have obtained a new passport after attaining the age of 20 (exceptions apply for minors on a parent’s OCI card).
- You must provide a copy of your new passport and a recent photograph.
Re-issue scenarios:
- Mandatory re-issue for adults upon new passport: If you acquired your OCI card before turning 20 and have obtained a new passport after turning 20, you need to re-issue your OCI card to capture your adult facial features.
- Optional re-issue for changes in personal details: You can also choose to re-issue your OCI card if you change your name (e.g., due to marriage), or nationality (except to Pakistan or Bangladesh), or have any errors in the existing card.
- Re-issue due to lost or damaged card: If your OCI card is lost or damaged, you can apply for a re-issue.
Is your OCI Card Still Valid if it is Registered on your Old Passport?
Even if your OCI card is technically valid on your old passport, some airline requires passengers to have updated travel documents for boarding. For a hassle-free and calm travel experience, it’s always a wise decision to get your OCI card re-issued with your updated passport information.2
Frequently Asked Questions
What can OCI card holders do in India?
OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) cardholders have several privileges in India. They can live and work in the country indefinitely, own property, and travel to India without the need for a visa. Additionally, OCI cardholders enjoy parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in financial, economic, and educational matters.1
What can OCI not do in India?
OCI cardholders cannot hold public office, vote in Indian elections held in India, hold sensitive government jobs, seek government subsidies and benefits, obtain certain licenses or permits, or hold positions with political affiliations.1
How many services does OCI have?
OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) offers a range of services, known as OCI Miscellaneous Services, addressing various needs such as updating information, re-issuing cards, and related assistance.
Do OCI card holders need to pay tax in India?
OCI cardholders are generally exempt from income tax in India, subject to certain conditions.
- Embassy of India, Manila, Philippines. (2022, June 12). Www.eoimanila.gov.in. https://www.eoimanila.gov.in/eoi.php?id=oci/ [↩] [↩] [↩] [↩] [↩]
- 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
Orcales, Wences. "All you need to know about OCI Miscellaneous Services." Visas For Future, https://www.visasforfuture.com/oci-card-miscellaneous-services/. Accessed on 6 October 2023.
Chicago Style
Orcales, Wences. "All you need to know about OCI Miscellaneous Services." Visas For Future. October 6, 2023. https://www.visasforfuture.com/oci-card-miscellaneous-services/.