What is an OCI Card?

• OCI = Overseas Citizen of India.

• It is a lifetime visa for people of Indian origin who are foreign citizens.

• Allows them to live, work, study, and travel freely in India (but not full citizenship).

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✅ Eligibility for OCI Card

You can apply for an OCI Card if:

1. You were an Indian citizen at any time.

2. Your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were Indian citizens.

3. You are the spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder (married for at least 2 years).

❌ Not Eligible If:

• You have ever been a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

• You have any criminal or anti-India background.

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✅ Benefits of OCI Card

• Lifetime multiple-entry visa to India.

• Can stay in India as long as you want.

• Work, study, or do business in India.

• No need to register with FRRO for long stays.

• Can buy property (except agricultural land).

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✅ How to Apply for OCI Card (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare Documents

• Current Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Old Indian Passport (if available)

• Proof of Indian origin (birth certificate, etc.)

• Marriage certificate (for spouse-based OCI)

• Passport size photo & signature scan

2. Apply Online

• Go to the official website:
  🔗 OCI Services – Government of India

3. Fill Online Form

• Fill OCI Registration Form online.

• Upload photo, signature, and documents.

4. Pay the Fee

• Pay application fee online.

  • In India: ₹15,000

  • Outside India: $275 USD (fees may vary by country)

5. Submit Hard Copy (if required)

• Submit printout of application & documents to the nearest Indian Mission / FRRO office.

6. Track Application

• You can track your OCI application status online.

7. Receive OCI Card

• After approval, collect the OCI card or receive by post.

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✅ Processing Time

• Usually 8-10 weeks, but it can vary.

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✅ Official Apply Link

🔗 Apply for OCI Card – https://ociservices.gov.in/