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Last Updated on January 28, 2023 by Mani Karthik
The OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is a travel document that allows holders to have multiple-entry, long-term visas to visit India. It essentially functions as a lifelong visa, meaning that cardholders do not need to apply for a new visa each time they want to visit the country. The OCI card is available to people of Indian origin who have been granted citizenship in another country. If you are a citizen of the United States and wish to apply for an OCI card, here is a guide on how to do so.
Who Is Eligible For OCI Card?
The Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card is a travel document issued by the Government of India to its citizens, allowing them to visit any country in the world without a visa. The OCI card is a valid travel document and can be used as proof of identity, citizenship, and Indian residence.
The OCI card application must be filed in India and processed by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
How to Apply for OCI from USA
The OCI application process from USA is relatively simple. Applicants must first complete an online application form, which will include basic personal information and questions about their eligibility for the program. Once the form is complete, applicants will submit it along with a copy of their passport and other required documents to the Indian consulate in their jurisdiction.
The consulate will review the application and supporting documents, and if everything is in order, they will issue an OCI card. The card will be valid for the duration of the applicant’s passport, and can be used for multiple entries into India.
Processing Time For OCI
The processing time for the Indian OCI card from USA is approximately 2-3 weeks.
The OCI card application process is simple and straightforward. The first step is to complete the online application form, which can be found on the website of the Indian consulate or embassy. Once the form is completed, the applicant will need to submit it along with the required documents. These documents include a passport-sized photograph, proof of Indian citizenship, and a copy of the applicant’s passport. After the application is submitted, the consulate will review it and issue the OCI card.
The required supporting documents for OCI are a valid passport, two recent passport-sized photographs, and a completed application form.
OCI In Lieu Of Damaged Or Lost OCI Card
If your OCI card has been damaged or lost, you may apply for a duplicate of the card by submitting the following items:
- A completed application form;
- A statement giving the circumstances in which the card was lost or damaged;
- Two passport-size photographs;
- The original Indian passport;
- The lost or damaged OCI card;
- A copy of the police report or first information report (FIR) filed regarding the loss or damage of the card; and
- A fee of Rs. 3,000/- (Rupees Three Thousand Only).
- Additional documents may be required.
The fee must be paid in Indian rupees in cash or by credit card. The fee is non-refundable.)
For further information on OCI cards, please contact the nearest Indian diplomatic mission.
This website provides the list of all Indian diplomatic missions abroad.
Fees For OCI
The fees for OCI are as follows:
- Application fee: $275
- Issue fee: $325
- Renewal fee: $325
- Duplicate/Replacement fee: $275
What is the difference between OCI card application at ckgs and nic?
There is no difference between the OCI card application at CKGsand nic. Both are equally valid and provide the same benefits.
Does having OCI card affect my green card application?
There is no effect on your green card application if you have an OCI card.
Do I need to send my original passport to get my OCI card at the time of application through CKGs?
No, you do not need to send your original passport to get your OCI card at the time of application through CKGS.
How long does it take to get an OCI card for a new applicant?
It takes approximately 60 days to receive an OCI card for a new applicant.
1 comment
I’m eligible for an OCI Card, because my husband was an Indian citizen at birth. I’m traveling to Bangalore on December 6, 2022, and I would like to receive an OCI Card for this trip (and for future trips). I’ll be staying with my oldest son and his family, who live and work in Bangalore.
If I send my application today, will there be plenty of time for me to receive the OCI card ?
Thank you.