As an OCI cardholder living outside India, you know how important your OCI card is for traveling to India. But have you realized that it's connected to your passport? Whenever you get a new passport, you must also update your OCI card. It is not just any regular document but must have to keep enjoying the perks of being an OCI without any issues. In this blog, we will walk you through the easy steps of OCI card renewal after getting a new US passport. Let's make this process simple and hassle-free for you!
Everything About OCI Card Renewal After Getting A New US Passport
OCI Card - Simplifying Your India Travel
An Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is a special type of long-duration visa designed for Indian nationals staying abroad. It grants them the ability to reside in India without any time constraints. Apart from this, these cards offer several other privileges:
1. Lifetime Visa to India: The OCI card allows you to travel to India without requiring the standard visa.
2. Exemption from FRRO Registration: With an OCI card, you won't have to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office if you plan to stay in India for over six months.
3. Eligibility to Vote in Indian Elections: You also get the right to participate in voting in national and local elections, giving you a voice in the country's governance.
4. Property Ownership Rights in India: You also have the right to purchase and own property in India.
Is It Mandatory to Update OCI with A New Passport?
Yes, it is! OCI cards are linked directly to your passport, meaning their validity is tied to the specific passport you had when they were issued. When you get a new passport, it's crucial to update the information on your OCI card to match your latest passport details. Failing to do so could result in your OCI being considered invalid.
When Do I Need to Renew My OCI Card?
The Government of India has established specific requirements for updating your Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card when you acquire a new US passport. Here's what you need to know:
1. Passport Change: It's crucial to update your OCI card whenever you get a new passport. It ensures that the latest passport number is linked to your OCI card for seamless identification.
2. Age-Related Updates: Minors (under 20) and adults over 50 must renew their OCI card alongside the passport. These milestones often affect physical appearance and biometric information, which must be updated on time.
3. Corrections: In case of any inaccuracies in your original OCI card, such as typo errors in your name or other personal details, it is best to rectify them by renewing your OCI card.
OCI Renewal Process - Steps to Follow
Renewing your Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card after getting a new US passport is a straightforward online procedure. Here's a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before starting, ensure you have the following ready to be uploaded:
Your old US passport (the one connected to the original OCI card)
Your new US passport (with the latest information)
Photocopies of both sides of your previous OCI card
Recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specified requirements
Evidence of Indian origin, if needed (such as a birth certificate or parental birth certificates)
Proof of your current address in the US (like a utility bill or bank statement)
Step 2: Access the Online Application
Visit the official OCI portal at https://ociservices.gov.in.
If you have an existing account, log in with your login details. If not, you will need to create an account to proceed.
When filling in the application, pick "Renew OCI Card" or "Change of Passport," based on what applies to your situation.
Fill out the online form with your details, including the information from your old and new US passports. You must also upload scanned copies of the necessary documents.
Step 3: Make the Payment
Next, you will be asked to pay a fee for the OCI card renewal process. The amount differs based on where you are and the speed of processing you choose.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After uploading the documents, you can submit your application online. The portal will verify your details, and your request will be placed in the processing queue.
Step 5: Visit to the Indian Embassy
Depending on the situation, you might be asked to visit the nearest Indian Embassy. It may be for document verification or for updating biometric information.
Step 6: Track Your Application
Upon submitting your application, you can monitor its progress by logging into your account on the OCI portal. You will receive updates regarding the status via email or directly on the portal.
Step 7: Get Your Renewed OCI Card
Once everything is processed, you will receive your updated OCI card with the details of your new US passport.
Note that the procedure will take approximately 8-10 weeks to finalize. During this period, you can travel using your current OCI card with your new passport
until the system confirms the acceptance of your uploaded documents.
Key Takeaway!
Renewing your OCI card after receiving a new US passport is a must-do step to ensure your travel to India remains hassle-free. The process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. With the above-outlined steps, you can successfully renew your OCI card without unnecessary delays. Make sure to begin the process on time before any planned travel and stay updated with any changes in Indian government policies regarding OCI cards.
Happy Travels!
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