Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Overseas Citizen of India
What is Overseas Citizen of India Scheme?
A person of Indian origin possessing a foreign passport, can apply for registration as Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) subject to fulfillment of criteria laid down in Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955. The OCI Cardholder is entitled to lifelong visa for visiting India and is not required to report to FRRO or local police authorities irrespective of length of stay in India. The details of the scheme and procedure for registration is available on the website of MHA i.e. www.mha.nic.in.
Who is eligible to apply?
A foreign national, who was eligible to become a citizen of India on 26.01.1950 or was a citizen of India on or at anytime after 26.01.1950 or belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15.08.1947 and his/her children and grand children, is eligible for registration as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Minor children of such person are also eligible for OCI. However, if the applicant had ever been a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh, he/she will not be eligible for OCI.
How do I apply for OCI card?
Procedure for registration under OCI scheme is explained on the website https://ociservices.gov.in/.
What is the time taken for new registration of OCI card?
In case of fresh application, it takes around 30 days in processing and then depends on printing and delivery from India.
Can a person renounce OCI?
Yes. He/she has to declare intention of renunciation in the prescribed form to the Indian Mission/Post where OCI registration was granted. An acknowledgement will be issued to the applicant by the Mission/Post or FRRO in India.
In what form should a person apply for an OCI and where are the forms available?
The OCI card can be applied online by following the link https://ociservices.gov.in/
How many copies of application have to be submitted?
Only one Set of Application has to be submitted for each applicant.
Whether applicant(s) have to go in person to submit the application (s)?
Yes. The applicant has to provide bio-metrics for the services.
Where to submit OCI Application in Malawi?
To the Consular Section of the High Commission of India in Lilongwe during the Consular hours in working days.
What is the fee for application for registration as an OCI?
The details can be accessed on https://www.hcililongwe.gov.in/page/consular-fees/
Will the applicant lose his citizenship after registering as an OCI?
No.
Can a person registered as an OCI travel to protected area/restrictedarea without permission?
No. He/she will be required to seek PAP/RAP for such visits.
Would the Indian civil/criminal laws be applicable to persons registered as OCI?
Yes, for the period OCI card holder is living in India.
Will foreign-born children of OCI be eligible to become an OCI?
Yes.
Is the OCI entitled to voting rights?
No.
Is the OCI entitled to hold constitutional post in India?
No.
Is the OCI entitled to hold Government posts in India?
No
If a person is already holding more than one nationality, can he/she apply for OCI?
Yes.
Whether an OCI be entitled to apply for and obtain a normal Indian passport which is given to a citizen of India?
No. Indian Passports are given only to Indian citizen.
Whether nationals of Commonwealth countries are eligible for the OCI?
Yes, if they fulfill the eligibility criteria.
Can an OCI holder undertake Research work in India?
Only after getting prior approval/special permission from MHA.
