The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card allows foreign citizens of Indian origin and their spouses to live and work in India indefinitely. While it is not the same as full Indian citizenship, it provides many benefits similar to those enjoyed by Indian citizens. Here's a detailed guide on the OCI process:
1. You were eligible to become a citizen of India on January 26, 1950.
2. You were a citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950.
3. You belong to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
4. You are a child or grandchild of a person who meets the above criteria.
5. You are a minor child whose parents are both Indian citizens or one parent is an Indian citizen.
6. You are the spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder, provided the marriage has been registered and subsisted for at least two years.
1. Lifelong Visa: The OCI card provides a multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India.
2. Exemption from Reporting: OCI cardholders do not need to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for any length of stay in India.
3. Equal Rights in Financial and Economic Fields: They can purchase non-agricultural property, participate in investments, and open bank accounts.
Online Application:1. Visit the official Indian government website for OCI applications.
2. Fill out the online registration form, upload the necessary documents, and submit it.
3. Once submitted, print out the application form and sign it.
Submit Application:Submit the printed application form along with the required documents to the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your jurisdiction.
Payment:Pay the required fee online or at the time of submission, depending on the specific process in your country.
The processing time for an OCI card can vary but typically takes between 8 to 10 weeks.
You can track the status of your application online using your registration number.
