Are you an Indian living in Australia and looking to secure your status with an OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card?
Well, we have heard many people complaining about the process of getting an OCI card tough! Many even stated that it’s a process that requires tedious documentation and effort.
Is this true? Is the entire process of getting an OCI card that difficult?
So we decided to take you through the step-by-step process of applying for an Indian OCI card in Australia, ensuring you have all the necessary information to successfully obtain your OCI status.
Who Is Eligible To Get An OCI Card?
Before we move on to the step-by-step procedure to obtain an OCI card, let’s first understand who is eligible to avail it.
It is a Lifelong travel document that is being issued by the governing body of India to people of Indian birth or their spouses. It will ease the process for the Indians being provided with multiple entry privileges for which they will not need to apply for visas again and again.
You can apply for an OCI Card, if:
- You were a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after, January 26, 1950.
- You were eligible to become a citizen of India on January 26, 1950.
- You belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
- You are a minor child of such persons mentioned above.
- You are a minor child and both or one of your parents are Indian citizens.
- You are a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of a citizen mentioned above.
- You are the foreign-origin spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder whose marriage has subsisted for at least two years.
Important Note: Individuals with Pakistani or Bangladeshi parentage, or parentage from other countries specified by the Indian Government are not eligible for OCI.
Let’s consider these scenarios to understand more about it:
And,
Sarah, an Australian citizen, last year married Amit, an Indian citizen. They have a three-year-old wedding in their possession. Sarah may even qualify for an OCI card, given that her spouse is an Indian national. By now, you have got enough understanding for the OCI Card. It’s time to know the procedure to follow to apply for an OCI Card:Step-by-Step Procedure To Apply For An OCI Card
The OCI application process in Australia is a two-step procedure:
- Online Application: Online Application: You should complete the application form online directly from the official OCI services website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs or on The Government of India.
- Physical Submission: Hand in the filled-in printouts (Part A & Part B) and the essential documents. The Department of Immigration and Citizenship Agency is the governing body in the country that prepares OCI applications.
Documents Required For OCI
Here is an OCI application checklist for you:
Document Category | Description |
Application Forms | Two sets of printed Part A & Part B with your original signature and photograph. |
Photographs | Three recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 cm x 3.5 cm) as per the specified guidelines. |
Passport & Citizenship Proof | Two copies of each relevant page of your Australian and Indian passports (if applicable). Additionally, a copy of your Australian Citizenship Certificate. |
Proof of Indian Origin (if applicable) | For applicants without an old Indian passport, documents like a domicile certificate issued by a competent authority in India can be submitted. |
Self-Attested Copies | All copies of documents must be self-attested, stating they are true copies with your signature. Minor’s copies can be attested by parents. |
Proof of Australian Residency (if applicable) | For Non-Australian citizens, documents like a Permanent Resident Visa, Medicare Card copy, Utility Bill copy or Rental Agreement Copy are required. |
Declaration Form | The duly filled “Declaration of Renunciation” form. |
Documents for Minors |
|
Stamped Envelope (for Postal Applications) | One stamped self-addressed envelope if sending the application by post. |
Important Info:
- The processing time for OCI applications can range from 45 days to 4 months. You can track the status online using the file number provided upon acknowledgement.
- Incomplete applications or those with missing documents will be rejected, causing delays. Ensure all documents are properly formatted and self-attested.
Streamline Your OCI Application With Our Expert Assistance
So as seen above you are required to work around hassles with the OCI application process independently.
But for those who are seeking additional support, services like Bharat Suvidha can be a valuable option.
How can Bharat Suvidha Help You To Get An OCI Card?
Bharat Suvidha is an independent organisation specialising in assisting Australians with their Indian documentation needs, including OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) applications. We have a team of experts who offer a range of services to simplify the process:
- Application Guidance: We provide thorough guidance throughout the application process, ensuring you understand the requirements and complete the forms accurately.
- Error-Free Applications: Our experts meticulously fill out your application to minimize the risk of errors or delays due to incorrect information.
- Streamlined Submission: They handle the application submission process, ensuring all documents are properly collated and lodged appropriately.
- OCI Application Services: Their services extend beyond initial applications. They can assist with:
- Updating OCI details
- Replacing lost OCI cards
- Transitioning from PIO to OCI status
- Renunciation of OCI registration
Important Note: It is crucial to understand that Bharat Suvidha is an independent service provider is not affiliated with VFS Global, The Consulate General of India or with The Indian Government. Their services come at an additional cost and utilizing them is entirely optional.
Conclusion
The OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card will enable simple travelling to India for Australian Indians living in Australia. Knowing about the qualification requirements, application forms and required documents will help you to complete the process faster.
Make sure you review the provided info, complete all the steps, and be ready for possible delays during the processing time.
