OCI Card Application: A Comprehensive Guide

What is an OCI Card?

The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is a lifelong visa that allows people of Indian origin to live and work in India indefinitely. It's the closest status to dual citizenship that India offers.

Who is Eligible?

You can apply for OCI if you:

• Were a citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950
• Were eligible to become a citizen on January 26, 1950
• Are a child/grandchild of such a person
• Are a spouse of an OCI cardholder (married for at least 2 years)

Note: Citizens of Pakistan and Bangladesh are not eligible.

Benefits of OCI Card

✅ Multiple entry, lifelong visa for India ✅ No requirement to register with police ✅ Parity with NRIs in financial, economic, and educational fields ✅ Can purchase residential and commercial property ✅ No visa required for any purpose

Required Documents

For Former Indian Citizens

1. Current foreign passport (original + copy)
2. Old Indian passport showing cancellation
3. Proof of acquiring foreign nationality
4. 4 passport-size photos
5. Birth certificate
6. Proof of address

For Spouses of OCI Holders

• Marriage certificate
• Spouse's OCI card copy
• Proof of marriage subsisting for 2+ years

Application Process

Step 1: Online Application

1. Go to ociservices.gov.in
2. Create an account and fill the form
3. Upload all documents
4. Pay the fee (approximately €175)
5. Print the application

Step 2: Submit to Embassy

Mail or deliver your application to:

• Embassy of India, Rome
• Consulate General of India, Milan

Step 3: Processing

• Typical processing time: 8-12 weeks
• Track your application online
• Embassy will contact you when ready

Pro Tips

💡 Apply for the whole family together to save on shipping 💡 Keep digital copies of all documents 💡 Check document expiry dates before applying

Official Websites

How We Can Help

Bharat Seva offers complete OCI application assistance, including document verification, form filling, and embassy coordination.