Many Australian families have ties to India, and for those with children born in Australia to parents of Indian origin, the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card offers a valuable connection to their heritage.
This blog provides a comprehensive guide for parents in Australia regarding OCI application for minor child Australia, outlining the requirements and processes involved.
What Is An OCI Card?
The OCI card is a lifelong visa that allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to live and work in India indefinitely. While it doesn’t grant Indian citizenship, it offers many of the same benefits, including visa-free travel to India, exemption from registering with local police authorities, and parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational fields, except in relation to acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.
Eligibility For OCI For Children
To determine whether your child qualifies for an OCI card, consider the following eligibility conditions:
Parental Indian Origin
At least one parent must be of Indian origin. This includes those who currently hold an Indian passport, are OCI cardholders, or were previously Indian citizens.
Dual Parent Requirement
If one parent is not of Indian origin, the child may still qualify, provided the other parent meets the necessary criteria.
Exclusions
OCI For Children Born In Australia
Children born in Australia to parents of Indian origin are eligible to apply for an OCI card.
The eligibility criteria are based on the parents’ status:
- Both parents are Indian citizens: The child is eligible.
- One parent is an Indian citizen and the other is not: The child is eligible.
- One parent is an OCI cardholder and the other is not: The child is eligible.
It is important to note that if neither parent is an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder, the child is not eligible for an OCI card.
Applying For An OCI Card For A Minor Child: Before Or After Birth?
The OCI application in Australia for a minor child can be initiated either before or after the child’s birth, though practically, it is always done after the child’s birth because a birth certificate is a mandatory document.
Application after birth:
This is the most common scenario. Parents will need to obtain the child’s Australian birth certificate before applying.
Key Documents For OCI Application
Preparing the right documentation is vital for a successful OCI application.
Below is a comprehensive list of required documents:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Child’s Birth Certificate | Establishes identity and nationality. |
| Child’s Current Passport | Establishes identity and nationality. |
| Parental Passports | Verifies the Indian origin of at least one parent. |
| Proof of Indian Origin | Indian passport or OCI card of the parent(s). |
| Proof of Address | Confirms current residential address in Australia. |
| Recent Passport-Sized Photographs | Needed for the OCI card and application form. |
| Parental Consent Form | A notarized form signed by both parents authorizing the application. |
| Custody Documents (if applicable) | Court orders in cases of divorced or separated parents. |
Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and consistent in the details they provide.
Key Considerations For Parents
Document Accuracy:
Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing.
Online Application:
VFS Appointment:
Processing Time:
Life-Long Validity for Minors:
Advantages Of OCI For Children
Visa-free travel to India
Visa-free travel makes it easier for a family to visit and for the child to explore their heritage.
Link with Indian Heritage
A more tangible link to their Indian roots.
Benefits in education and employment
Certain educational and economic opportunities in India opened up.
Compliance And Special Considerations
While preparing your OCI application for a minor child in Australia, take the following notes into account:
Accuracy of Details
Australian Building Code Compliance
Process application with compliance to any updated rules and regulations.
Signatures
Both parents must sign the application form, even though they are not required to milk it from Indian origin.
Changes of names
If there are changes in name (as a result of marriage), supporting documents will be required.
Smooth OCI Application Process For Your Child In Australia
Applying for your child’s OCI card has never been simpler with Bharat Suvidha’s expert assistance. Follow these three easy steps:
Sign Up & Provide Details
Share your child’s information and required documents to get started.
Expert Guidance
Our team will handle the application, ensuring every detail meets the requirements for minors and is error-free.
Submit with Confidence
Once reviewed, we’ll guide you through submitting the application to the appropriate authorities.
Ensure your child’s OCI application is completed accurately and hassle-free. Start the process with us today!
