If you are planning to visit India and want to travel with an OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card, you can go through some steps. You can apply for a new card, renew an existing one, and learn more about the benefits of an OCI card.
Requirements for applying for an OCI card
To obtain an OCI card, you will need to meet some basic requirements. First, you will need a valid passport. Second, you will need to provide documents that prove your citizenship. Lastly, you will need to pay the required fees.
Applicants must submit the correct documentation to their Embassy. The application process for an OCI card takes around seven to eleven weeks.
Applicants can apply for an OCI card independently or through their spouse. Those born outside the US must submit full-version birth certificates translated into English. Applicants who have been naturalized in the US must have a US Naturalization Certificate. Applicants must also include a notarized written statement detailing their former nationality.
Those applying for an OCI on behalf of their spouse must provide proof of the marriage of at least two years. Applicants should also be able to provide proof of custody for minor children. This document should be from a registered institution.
Requirements for renewing an OCI card
An Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is a lifelong visa for travel to India. This card provides the same benefits as an Indian passport. It is also suitable identification proof for opening a bank account and driving a license.
The Indian government has loosened some of the rules for OCI card holders. For instance, if a person’s details change, he does not need to get a new OCI card. Instead, he can re-apply for a new card with updated information. However, he still needs to carry a valid passport.
To apply for an OCI card, the applicant must be an Indian citizen or foreign national who ordinarily lives in India. Applicants cannot be citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh.
After completing the application, the applicant must upload the latest passport photos and a copy of the passport. After uploading all documents, the Embassy process will take about five to six weeks. When the Embassy is satisfied with the uploaded documents, it will email the applicant.
Requirements for traveling to India with an OCI card
The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card is an official document issued to people of Indian origin. It allows holders to visit India visa-free. They can also use it as identity proof in India. However, it does not grant them voting rights or the right to purchase agricultural land.
There are many advantages to having an OCI Card. Holders enjoy economic parity with non-resident Indians (NRIs). This means that they can travel to India without an India entry visa. In addition, they are allowed to work and live in India. Additionally, they are exempt from registering with a foreign registration office in India.
Before you apply for an OCI card, it is essential to understand the requirements. This includes submitting the correct documents and following the proper procedures.
You will need a valid passport if you are applying for an OCI card while traveling to India. This must have a minimum validity of six months. You will also need a copy of your Indian visa.
Disadvantages of having an OCI card
Having an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card can make traveling to India hassle-free. It’s a lifetime visa, which means no need to apply for a new key every time you come to India. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages of having an OCI.
The advantages are No need to register with any local police authorities in India. You can purchase agricultural or plantation property in India. You can also open an NRE account in an Indian bank.
The disadvantages are: You will lose your Indian citizenship. You will no longer have voting rights in parliament and legislative assemblies. Also, you will be ineligible to hold public office in India.
To receive your OCI Card, you must meet specific criteria. You must have permanent residence in India or be a family member with a place in India. In addition, you must have lived in India for at least a year.
You can apply for an OCI Card online. All you have to do is fill in the form and upload your documents. Your application will then be sent to the High Commission of India, Wellington.
