Eligibility Quiz
Have you, your parents, or your grandparents ever held citizenship of Pakistan or Bangladesh?
Application Process
The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card is a lifelong residency and work permit for foreign nationals of Indian origin. While it is often called "dual citizenship," it is legally a long-term visa. You must first formally renounce your Indian citizenship and obtain a Surrender Certificate (proof of renounced citizenship) before you can begin this application.
Step 1: Online Registration
All applicants must start by visiting the official OCI Services portal.
- Select "New OCI Registration."
- Complete the online form carefully. Ensure your name matches your current foreign passport exactly.
- Upload a digital photograph (2x2 inch, white background) and a digital image of your signature.
- Upload PDF copies of your supporting documents (Passport, Surrender Certificate, and proof of Indian origin).
Step 2: Physical Submission
Once you submit the online form, you must print the generated application. You cannot complete the process entirely online; you must submit physical documents to a designated service provider or mission.
If applying from outside India: Most countries use an outsourced partner like VFS Global. You will need to book an appointment at a VFS center or mail your application package to them, depending on the specific rules of your jurisdiction (e.g., US, UK, or Canada).
If applying from within India: You must be in India on a long-term visa (valid for more than 180 days). You cannot apply while on a Tourist, Missionary, or Mountaineering visa. You will submit your application to the local Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO).
Step 3: Verification and Interview
- Verification: Your application is sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs in India for background checks.
- Spousal Interview: If you are applying based on marriage to an Indian citizen or OCI holder, you and your spouse will be required to attend a personal interview to verify the subsisting marriage (which must have lasted at least two years).
Step 4: Collection
Once approved, your OCI booklet will be printed in Delhi and sent to your local mission or service provider. You will be notified to either collect it in person or have it mailed to you.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fresh Application (Outside India) | US $275 (or local equivalent) |
| Fresh Application (Inside India) | ₹15,000 |
| Re-issuance (Lost/Damaged/New Passport) | US $25 / ₹5,500 |
| Service Provider Fee (e.g., VFS Global) | US $15 – $30 |
| Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) | US $3 – $5 |
Total Estimate: Approximately US $300 – $315 for applicants outside India. Does not include: Costs for obtaining a Surrender Certificate, apostille services for foreign birth/marriage certificates, professional translation of non-English documents, or courier/mailing fees.
Processing Time
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Standard OCI Application | 6 to 8 weeks |
| Spousal OCI Application | 10 to 12 weeks |
| High-Volume Centers (NY, London, SF) | 12+ weeks |
| Indian Passport Surrender (Pre-requisite) | 2 to 4 weeks |
Document Validity:
- Your foreign passport must have at least 6 months of validity at the time of application.
- PIO Conversion: If you hold a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card, you must convert it to an OCI by December 31, 2025.
- Re-issuance: You only need to re-issue your OCI card once after turning 20 years old. If you are over 50, you generally only need to upload your new passport photo to the portal rather than applying for a new card.