Want to apply for an OCI card? Indian government unveils new OCI portal

The Indian government has introduced a new OCI portal, marking a significant step in supporting Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). For individuals seeking to apply for or manage their OCI status, this platform aims to streamline the application process, minimise paperwork, and enhance their overall experience.

This new portal could make things quite different, no matter whether you are renewing your OCI card or applying for the first time. Here is a comprehensive tutorial that explains what the OCI card is, how the new portal operates, and provides answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is an OCI Card?

OCI means Indian Overseas Citizen. For Indians who have obtained foreign citizenship, it is a unique card. Although OCI holders do not possess complete Indian citizenship, they are entitled to many rights and benefits, including those of Indian citizens.

Essential advantages of an OCI card:

• Life-long Indian visitation visa
• For extended visits, there is no requirement to register with the police
• Except for agricultural land, one can acquire property in India
• Indian work and research possibilities
• Simplification of the bank account and PAN card opening procedure

What OCI Portal updates are there?

May 2025, the Government of India’s Ministry of Home Affairs launched a revised OCI portal. The portal is designed to facilitate entirely digital administration and application.

Features of the revised portal:

• A one-stop OCI services platform
• User-friendly layout for quick navigation
• Uploading documents online
• Real-time tracking of application status
• FAQs and helpline assistance

How should one apply for an OCI card on the New Portal?

The following is a step-by-step instruction on applying under the updated system:

Step 1: Visit the updated OCI gateway.

 Visit the official gateway at: https://ociservices.gov.in.

S.. Step 2: Sign up for yourself

 Click on “Apply for OCI”.

 Include your name, email, and mobile number among your basic information.

 Set up a secure password.

Step 3: Complete the application form

 Input your basic information.

 Upload the requested documents (passport, proof of Indian origin, and so on).

 Upload your signature and picture.

 Revise and forward

Step 5: Pay the fees electronically.

 One can pay using UPI, net banking, or a debit or credit card.

 Fees change with the country from which you are applying.

Step 5: Monitor your application

 Track the status using your registration number.

 Get email and text message updates.

OCI Card Needed Documentation

Though your category will determine the list’s variation, here are the core papers:

For a first-time OCI applicant:

• Foreign passport now (valid for at least six months)
• Proof of Indian ancestry or Indian passport (if relinquished)
• Renunciation certificate (if any)
• Birth certificate, a small, recent passport-sized photo
• For minors, a signature or thumbprint

Groups for Under Which You Might Apply

An OCI card has several categories for which one can apply. Select the best one:

• India-born foreign national
• Child or grandchild of a citizen of India
• Spouse of an OCI holder or an Indian citizen
• Little youngsters of Indian descent
• Foreign-born kids of OCI cardholders

Who is qualified for an OCI card?

You need to meet the requirements to get an OCI card:

• Have held Indian citizenship or
• Either be the child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of an Indian citizen, or
• Be the spouse of an Indian/OCI cardholder married for at least two years.

Note: OCI cards are not available to Pakistani or Bangladeshi citizens.

Who Should Not Apply?

• Should you be a Pakistani or Bangladeshi citizen?
• If you currently hold Indian citizenship (you don’t need OCI).
• Should your Indian citizenship not have been officially renounced yet

Could OCI serve as a passport?

No. A passport is not the same as an OCI card. When visiting India, you must bring your OCI card along with your foreign passport.

How long does an OCI card last?

As long as you keep the same passport number, the OCI card is valid for life. However, for those under 20 and adults over 50, a new card must be obtained upon the release of a new passport

For those between 21 and 49 whose passport is current, no reissue is necessary.

Cost of an OCI Card

Costs change depending on where you submit your application from. These are rough fees:

• Outside India (e.g., USA/UK): approximately USD 275
• In India: Around INR 15,000

Before making any payment, verify the exact fee on the portal.

How much time does it need?

Processing time typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the location and the number of applicants.

At every stage, you will get status updates through SMS or email.

Renewal or OCI Card re-issuance

When must you renew?

In the following situations, you have to get a new OCI card:

• For those under 20 or over 50, when your passport number changes
• Should personal information (such as surname after marriage) be updated?
• When your present OCI card goes missing or is damaged

Often-Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Though I was born in India, I now hold foreign citizenship. Am I eligible for OCI?

 Yes. You are eligible if you once held Indian nationality and now hold foreign citizenship (excluding citizenship from Pakistan or Bangladesh).

Q2: When visiting India, do I need to have both my OCI card and foreign passport with me?

 Yes. Since the OCI card is not a single travel document, you should bring both the OCI card and the passport.

Q3: What happens if I lose my OCI card?

 The portal allows you to apply for a duplicate card. Send an FIR with documentation including a passport copy and proof of identification.

Q4: With an OCI card, can I purchase property in India?

 Yes, albeit just residential and commercial property. You cannot find agricultural land for sale.

Q5: Are OCI holders eligible to vote in Indian elections?

 No. In India, OCI cardholders are not eligible to vote, run for public office, or hold government employment.

Q6: Should one apply at a certain age?

 No. OCI cards can be issued to both minors and adults if the required age is met.

Q7: Must biometric verification be done?

 Yes, in some countries and application centres, you may be required to undergo a biometric scan (fingerprint and photo).

Tips for a Seamless OCI Application

• Arrange the document clearly before uploading
• Use passport-size pictures with a white backdrop.
• Revisit your passport number, birthdate, and name.
• Upload wisely; pay attention to document size constraints.
• Processing could take several weeks; don’t wait till the last minute.

For the Indian government, the upgraded OCI portal represents a significant step forward in simplifying, streamlining, and making foreign procedures paperless. Obtaining or renewing an OCI card is now significantly simpler, thanks to enhanced tracking, digital uploads, and improved customer service.

Starting now would be a wise choice if you have been pondering applying.

Go to the new portal, follow the instructions, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an Overseas Indian Citizen.