OCI Services

How To Apply

1. Create an Account: Register on the Precise Communications Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) website.
   Click here to register.
2. Fill Out the Government Application Form: Click here to access the form.
3. Book an Appointment: Schedule your visit to Precise Communications ICAC by choosing a suitable date and time.
   Click here to book your appointment
4. Prepare Your Documents: Carry your passport, photographs, and all supporting documents as listed in the Documents Checklist section.
5. Visit Precise Communications ICAC: Visit the designated ICAC. The address and location will be mentioned in your appointment letter. Ensure you arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time.
6. Submit Your Application & Pay Fees: Submit your documents and pay the applicable fees at ICAC. Refer to the Fee Details section for exact charges.
7. Enroll for Biometrics (if required): Complete biometric enrollment if applicable.
8. Application Submission Complete: You’ve successfully submitted your application.
9. Track Your Application: Monitor your application’s status online.
   Click here to track your application

PIO to OCI Checklist For Foreign Nationality

• Application form ( www.ociservices.gov.in/welcome ) – Application form must specify address in United Arab Emirates as present address.
• Photographs – 2*2 inches, sky blue background (2 photos)
• Passport copy – 2 copies with Visa page
• Work Permit/Tangdao or Letter from organization – 1 set copy
• Copy of PIO card (Front and Last page)
• Copy of proof of residence in United Arab Emirates (e.g., Rent/Lease agreement, Bank Statement, Phone bill, Internet Bill)
• Copy of Marriage Certificate
• Indian Origin Proof: Indian Passport of spouse
• For Minor Applicants: Parents must come along while applying
• Applicant must come in person to apply
• All original documents to be shown while applying

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it mandatory to convert a PIO card to an OCI card?
Yes. As per Government of India notification, all PIO cards have been merged into the OCI scheme, and PIO cardholders must convert to OCI. PIO cards are no longer considered valid for travel.

2. What is the deadline for PIO to OCI conversion?
Although multiple deadlines were issued earlier, PIO cards are now deemed invalid for international travel. Conversion to OCI is required before traveling to India.

3. What documents are required for PIO to OCI conversion?
You must submit the original and copy of the valid PIO card, current foreign passport, recent passport-size photograph, and proof of current residence. Refer to the “Documents Checklist” on the OCI portal for a detailed list.

4. Is there a fee for converting a PIO card to an OCI card?
There is no government fee if the application was submitted within the previously announced timelines. However, a service fee may apply through the outsourcing agency such as Du Digital ICAC.

5. How do I apply for PIO to OCI conversion?
You need to apply online through the OCI Services portal by selecting the “PIO to OCI” conversion option. After completing the online form, visit Du Digital ICAC or the local Indian Mission/Post for document verification and submission.

6. Will I receive a new OCI card number after conversion?
Yes. A new OCI card and a unique OCI number will be issued upon successful conversion. Your PIO card will be collected and cancelled.

7. Can I travel to India using my old PIO card?
No. PIO cards are no longer accepted as valid travel documents. You must carry your current passport along with a valid OCI card to enter India.

8. What is the processing time for PIO to OCI conversion?
Processing typically takes four to six weeks, depending on the accuracy of the documents and the verification process. Applicants will receive email or SMS notifications and can track their status online.

9. Will my visa privileges remain the same after conversion?
Yes. After conversion, the OCI card provides the same privileges including lifelong visa-free entry to India, exemption from police registration, and parity with NRIs in economic and educational fields, excluding agricultural land acquisition.

10. What happens if I delay the conversion?
Delaying the conversion may result in denial of entry into India and could cause difficulties in accessing consular services or benefits. It is advised to complete the conversion before your next travel to India.

How To Apply

1. Create an Account: Register on the Precise Communications Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) website.
   Click here to register.
2. Fill Out the Government Application Form: Click here to access the form.
3. Book an Appointment: Schedule your visit to Precise Communications ICAC by choosing a suitable date and time.
   Click here to book your appointment
4. Prepare Your Documents: Carry your passport, photographs, and all supporting documents as listed in the Documents Checklist section.
5. Visit Precise Communications ICAC: Visit the designated ICAC. The address and location will be mentioned in your appointment letter. Ensure you arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time.
6. Submit Your Application & Pay Fees: Submit your documents and pay the applicable fees at ICAC. Refer to the Fee Details section for exact charges.
7. Enroll for Biometrics (if required): Complete biometric enrollment if applicable.
8. Application Submission Complete: You’ve successfully submitted your application.
9. Track Your Application: Monitor your application’s status online.
   Click here to track your application

Documents Required for OCI Application

General Instructions for Filling the Form

• The OCI application consists of Part A, B, and C.
• Part A must be completed individually for each applicant.
• Parts B and C are common for the entire family.
• Part A must be submitted online at https://ociservices.gov.in.
• Note: Once submitted, Part A cannot be edited.
• A registration/reference number (e.g., THABI0148010) will be generated for tracking.
• The Embassy will not respond to application status inquiries over the phone.
• Minor children are not eligible if one parent does not qualify for OCI.

Documents to be Submitted (In Person)

Arrange one set in the following sequence before submission:

1. Filled application form (Part A, B, and C)
2. Photocopy of passport (original must be shown for verification)
3. Photocopy of identity card
4. Four recent photographs (size: 51 x 51 mm or 2 x 2 inches) with light blue background:
   
   • One to be uploaded with the application form
   • Two spare photos
5. Photocopy of birth certificate with English translation (original required for verification)
6. All documents must be self-attested

Additional Proof of Indian Origin (Any One or More):

• Photocopy of parents’/grandparents’ Indian passport (original required for verification)
• Proof of relationship with parents/grandparents (original required)
• Change of name/surname document, translated to English and attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (United Arab Emirates)
• Photocopy of previous Indian passport (original required for verification)
• Photocopy of house registration or other supporting documents (with translation)
• Letter explaining Indian origin based on submitted documents
• If applying based on an existing OCI card:
  
  • Photocopy of OCI card
  • Proof of relationship (original required)
• Attested and translated birth certificate and Thai house registration

For Re-issuance After Age 50

Only the following documents are required to be uploaded on the OCI portal:

• Copy of current OCI card
• Copy of valid foreign passport

Important Notes:

• The Indian passport of the applicant or their parents/grandparents is considered the primary proof of Indian origin.
• If unavailable, submit secondary documents (e.g., house registration, domicile, revenue records) duly attested.
• Ensure no field in the form is left blank.
• Affix photographs and signatures in the correct places and include spare photos as required.

For Foreign Nationals:

Birth Certificate and Marriage Certificate must be attested by the respective embassy.
Additionally, one of the following must be submitted: bank statement, lease agreement, or internet bill.

If applying on behalf of grandparents or parents, their passport must also be submitted.

If Applying Based on Indian-Origin Spouse:

Submit the Birth Certificate, House Registration, Marriage Certificate, and Name/Surname Change Certificate—
all of which must be attested and translated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (United Arab Emirates).

Proof of Indian origin of the spouse must also be submitted.

FAQs:

1. Who is eligible to apply for an OCI card?
Individuals who were Indian citizens on or after 26 January 1950, or were eligible to become Indian citizens on that date, including their children and grandchildren, may apply.

Note: Citizens or former citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh are not eligible for OCI.

2. Is a Renunciation Certificate required before applying for OCI?
Yes. If you previously held Indian citizenship, you must obtain a Renunciation or Surrender Certificate before applying for an OCI card.

3. Can foreign spouses of Indian citizens apply for OCI?
Yes. A foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder can apply, provided the marriage has been registered and has existed continuously for at least 2 years prior to the date of application.

4. Are minor children eligible for OCI?
Yes. Minor children are eligible if one or both parents are Indian citizens or OCI cardholders. A birth certificate and proof of parental citizenship must be submitted.

5. Are individuals with military background eligible for OCI?
No. Foreign nationals who are currently serving or have previously served in any foreign military force, including civilian roles in defence departments, are not eligible.

6. What are the benefits of holding an OCI card?

• Life-long, multiple-entry visa to India
• Exemption from police registration, regardless of stay duration
• Equal treatment with NRIs in educational, financial, and economic fields (except purchase of agricultural land)
• Accepted ID for PAN card, driver’s license, and bank accounts in India

7. What are the restrictions on OCI cardholders?
OCI holders cannot:

• Vote in Indian elections
• Hold public office
• Acquire agricultural or plantation property
• Be employed in Indian government services
• Travel to protected/restricted areas without special permits
• Engage in missionary work, mountaineering, or journalism without prior approval

8. What documents are required for a fresh OCI application?
Key documents include:

• Valid foreign passport
• Indian origin proof (passport/certificate of parents or grandparents)
• Renunciation certificate (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (for spouse-based applications)
• Birth certificate (for minor applicants)

Refer to the Documents Checklist for a complete list.

9. Can I apply for OCI from outside India?
Yes. You can apply at the Indian Mission/Post in your country of residence. In United Arab Emirates, applications can be submitted through Precise Communications Global ICAC with a prior appointment.

10. What is the processing time for a fresh OCI application?
Processing usually takes 6 to 8 weeks, depending on document verification and clearance. Applicants are notified by email/SMS, and status can be tracked on the OCI portal.