Can I apply for OCI without US passport?
Asked by: Clint Torp | Last update: July 24, 2023Score: 5/5 (7 votes)
Applicant's Original US/Foreign Passport validity of minimum 6 months at the time of submission of application.
Do we need to submit passport for OCI?
A valid original US passport or Non-Indian passport if the nationality is non-US is needed at this point. The U-Visa (OCI) sticker needs to be affixed to a blank visa page in the passport. The passport must have minimum 2 blank pages and a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of application.
What documents do I need to apply for OCI in USA?
- Government online application form.
- Photograph and signature.
- Proof of OCI Card fee payment.
- Self-attested photocopy of passport.
- Apostilled marriage certificate.
- Name change affidavit (provide original affidavit)
Can I apply for OCI if I have visa?
Foreign nationals cannot apply for OCI in India while on Tourist Visa, Missionary Visa and Mountaineering Visa.
How long does it take to get OCI card in USA?
Kindly note that normal processing time for a new OCI application (based on Indian origin) is 4-5 weeks from the date of registration of the application in the Consulate whereas for re-issuance/updation of OCI Cards, it is 5-6 weeks.
OCI Application Step-by-Step Process | How to Apply for OCI Card | Complete Guide
Can I travel to India while OCI application is in process?
They do issue emergency visa but it's up to their discretion. You can get a visa while OCI is in progress.
Can I travel to India without visa if I have OCI?
A: You will be allowed entry into India if you have a valid OCI Card and a valid foreign passport. You do not need to carry the old passport on which your "U” (OCI) Visa was stamped, if that happens to be different from your current passport.
How long is OCI valid for?
The OCI card is a lifelong visa available for citizens of Indian origin. Once you get it, you will obtain all the rights any resident in India has. You can live and work in India. The OCI card is valid for 10 years after issued and it allows Multiple Entry to the country.
Is OCI better than visa?
The OCI card is the Overseas Citizenship of India card. The document gives you the right to live and work in India. Also, you can visit India as many times as you would like. It's not necessarily a visa as it allows more benefits than a simple visa.
How to apply for OCI card in USA step by step?
- Step 1: Complete the Government online form:
- Step 2: Click here to know the supporting form and arrange documents as per the checklist.
- Step 3: Click here to book an appointment and pay fees.
- Step 4: Visit the VFS Indian Consular Application Centre as per your scheduled appointment date and time.
What is proof of residency for OCI?
Proof of address must match with the present address as per application: (any ONE of the below documents) - State Issued ID OR - Driving license OR - Utility Bill - Water (should be recent, no more than 3 months old) OR - Utility Bill - Gas (should be recent, no more than 3 months old) OR - Utility Bill - Electricity ( ...
How can I update my US passport for OCI?
Apply under OCI Miscellaneous Service online at https://ociservices.gov.in/ Click on "Fill New Miscellaneous Application" Select option "Passport particulars updation" under “GRATIS” service. Upload photo, signature and passport document files. This entire process is done online.
Do I need to upload photo for OCI?
It is mandatory to upload Applicant's photograph and Applicant's signature image during OCI-Registration. Both the images must be in jpeg or jpg format, with max size 500kb. The height and width of the Applicant Photo must be equal. The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 200 pixels (height).
What are the requirements for OCI photo?
The photograph should be in size 2 inch x 2 inch (51 mm x 51 mm) and in colour. Print photo on thin photo paper or stock. Ensure the print is clear and has a continuous-tone quality. Do not retouch or otherwise enhance or soften the photo.
Do I need to stick photo on OCI application?
In order to apply for an OCI card, you need to attach two (2) printed photos to the paper application, or simply upload a digital photo if applying online.
Does OCI expire at age 50?
Once you reach the age of 50, you must apply for OCI card renewal and have your visa re-issued. For those between the ages of 21 and 50, there are no mandatory requirements to get your card re-issued. Similarly, after the age of 50, it is not mandatory to renew your OCI card every time you get a new passport.
How long a US citizen can stay in India with OCI?
An OCI card holder can stay in India for life time. It is important for an OCI card holder to ensure that they hold valid passports from their home country. In case the passport needs to be renewed then the OCI card holders have to get it renewed visiting their home country embassy in India.
What is the new OCI rule?
It allows them to live and work in India indefinitely but does not grant citizenship or voting rights. In 2021, new rules were introduced, requiring OCI cardholders to seek permission for certain activities. Violating the rules can result in penalties and even blacklisting.
What OCI can't do in India?
The OCI is not entitled to vote, be a member of Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council or Parliament, cannot hold constitutional posts such as President, Vice President, Judge of Supreme Court or High Court etc. and he/she cannot normally hold employment in the Government.
What are the restrictions of Indian OCI card?
- Vote.
- Become a member of a Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council or the Parliament.
- Hold constitutional posts such as President, Vice President, Judge of Supreme Court, or High Court.
- Hold employment in the Government.
- Hold an Indian passport.
- Purchase agricultural or plantation properties in India.
Does OCI affect US citizenship?
It is basically a life long Visa and with some other privileges attached which can be seen on the Ministry of Home Affairs' web site. It is reiterated that holding an OCI card in no way entitles its holders to claim the status of dual citizenship.
Is OCI card lifelong?
A: An OCI card holder gets the following benefits: A multiple entry, multi-purpose life-long visa for visiting India. Exemption from registration with local police authority for any length of stay in India.
Is it worth getting an OCI card?
You can acquire it if you can prove you have Indian origin. The OCI card benefits refer to the rights you gain, like working rights, living as a resident, and entering India as many times as you want. One of the major drawbacks is that you must surrender your Indian passport as India doesn't accept dual citizenship.
How long must a US passport be valid to enter India?
Passport used by the applicant should have at least six-months validity from the date of arrival in India. The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer on arrival.