The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is an important document for those of Indian origin who wish to maintain ties with India while living abroad. With its wide array of benefits, many Indian expatriates in the USA are eager to apply for this card. But what does the process entail?
Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for OCI card in USA, covering all essential steps, required documents, and important updates.
Step 1: Understand the OCI Eligibility
Before beginning the application for OCI process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. You are eligible if you are an Indian citizen who has acquired the nationality of another country, or if you are of Indian origin but born outside India. Certain restrictions apply, so it’s important to verify whether you meet the required documents for OCI.
Step 2: Start the Application Process
The first step to applying for OCI card in USA is completing the application form. This form is available on the official government website, where you can fill it out online. The process is straightforward, but some applicants often overlook important aspects of the application.
Step 3: Gather and Upload the Required Documents for OCI
This is where many applicants face confusion. The oci document checklist is extensive, and applicants must ensure that every required document is correctly submitted. The key documents needed for OCI application typically include:
- Proof of Indian origin (e.g., a previous Indian passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of your new nationality (e.g., a naturalization certificate or foreign passport)
- Thirdly, proof of residence in the USA (e.g., a utility bill or lease agreement)
- Recent passport-sized photos that meet OCI photo requirements
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of application.
You will need to oci document upload to the website during the application process. The documents required for OCI application must meet specific specifications, including photo size and resolution.
Step 4: Pay the OCI Fees
The OCI fees in USA can vary. Generally, the OCI fees are quite reasonable compared to the benefits the card provides. You will be required to make an OCI online fee payment through the designated payment gateway on the official website. Ensure you check the OCI card fees. One important thing to keep in mind is that the OCI card fees are non-refundable.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Documents
After completing the online form and paying the OCI online fee payment, it’s time to submit the application. In some cases, applicants are asked to send their original documents by mail to the Indian consulate or embassy. You must also include a self-addressed envelope with your submission.
Step 6: Track the Status of Your Application
Once you have submitted the required documents and completed the application process, you can track the status of your applying for OCI card in US through the official government website. The processing time you should expect anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks for the process to be completed.
Step 7: OCI Renewal for Minors in the USA
The OCI renewal for minors in USA follows a different process. If you are applying for a minor, you will need to submit additional documents such as the child’s birth certificate, proof of parental relationship, and consent from both parents for the application on applying oci card in usa.
Step 8: Keep Updated on OCI New Rules Change
It’s essential to stay informed about any new rules for OCI card holders. Recently, there have been some OCI rule changes that affect how applications are processed and which documents are required.
Conclusion
Applying for OCI card in USA is an important step. However, understanding the oci document checklist, knowing the OCI fees, and staying updated on the new rules for OCI card holders can sometimes feel overwhelming.
At letmehelpyou, we offer personalized support throughout the OCI application process, ensuring you meet all the requirements. Call LetMeHelpYou at (408) 409-5709 or email info@letmehelpyou.us to begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pay oci fees online?
Visit the official OCI application website, fill out the form, and use the online payment gateway to complete the payment.
How to take oci in india for us kids?
Apply online, and follow the process for minors, including consent from both parents.
Does oci need to be updated with new passport?
Yes, OCI holders must update their details when they get a new passport.
Does india allow dual nationality?
No, India does not allow dual nationality.
How long us citizen can stay in india with oci? They can stay in India for as long as they like, but they must comply with the OCI guidelines.