OSCRI Apply Online: A Comprehensive Guide
The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a prestigious identity card issued to the people of Indian origin living abroad. The OCI card grants various benefits, including lifelong visa-free travel to India, exemption from reporting to the police, and parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in financial, economic, and educational fields. To apply for OCI, you need to submit your application online through the official website of the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) portal. In this article, we will guide you through the OCI application process online.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for OCI, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- PIO Card Holders: You must hold a valid PIO (Person of Indian Origin) card.
- Foreign Spouse: You must be a foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder.
- Descendants: You must be a grandchild or great-grandchild of an Indian citizen.
- Indian Origin: You must have Indian ancestry, i.e., your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were born in India.
Documents Required
Gather the following documents before starting the application process:
- Valid Passport: A scanned copy of your passport, including all blank pages.
- Proof of Identity: A scanned copy of your national identity card, driver's license, or government-issued ID.
- Proof of Address: A scanned copy of your utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement.
- Proof of Indian Origin: Documents supporting your Indian ancestry, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other relevant records.
OCI Application Process
Step 1: Register and Create a New Account
- Visit the and click on "New Registration."
- Fill in the required information, including your name, email ID, and password.
- Verify your email address by clicking on the link sent by the OCI portal.
Step 2: Fill the Online Application Form
- Log in to your account and click on "Apply Online."
- Fill in the application form with your personal details, address, and other required information.
- Upload the required documents in the specified format (JPEG or PDF).
Step 3: Pay the Fees
- Pay the OCI application fee using a debit/credit card or through net banking.
- The fee for OCI registration is currently ₹15,000 (approximately $200 USD).
Step 4: Upload Photograph and Signature
- Upload a recent passport-sized photograph in JPEG format.
- Scan your signature and upload it in JPEG format.
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Review your application and make any necessary changes.
- Submit your application and note the application number.
Step 6: Take a Printout and Sign
- Take a printout of the application and sign it.
- Attach all the uploaded documents and submit them to the nearest Indian Mission/Post.
Tips and Reminders
- Ensure you have all the required documents before starting the application process.
- Scan your documents in the specified format (JPEG or PDF).
- Take your time and fill in the application form carefully to avoid errors.
- Keep a copy of your application and documents for future reference.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can successfully apply for OCI online and start enjoying the benefits of being an OCI cardholder.
