If you’re living in Australia and have recently renewed your passport, you might be wondering — Do I need to renew my OCI card too? The answer depends on your age and when your OCI card was issued.
The OCI renewal process can be difficult for many Indians and persons of Indian heritage living in Australia, especially after getting a new passport.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly when and how to update your OCI card, the documents you’ll need, and how to make the process hassle-free.
When Is OCI Renewal Required After a Passport Change?
Not all Australians have to follow the same OCI renewal requirements. Depending on your age, they vary:
For Children (Under 20 Years Old):
Because kids’ appearances change as they grow, OCI must be renewed each time a new passport is issued.
For Adults (20–50 Years Old):
Only one-time renewal is required after the first passport is reissued once you turn 20. After that, updating your OCI with every passport renewal is unnecessary.
For Adults (Above 50 Years Old):
A renewal is required once after getting a new passport post-50 years of age. This is because facial features may change over time.
Key point: You do not need to renew your OCI with each new passport if you are between the ages of 21 and 49 and have already updated it after turning 20.
Why Is OCI Renewal Necessary?
A frequent misunderstanding among travellers is that their OCI card is good for life without any updates. Renewal guarantees that your passport information and photo fulfil immigration criteria, even though that is true for the card.
If you travel without updating your OCI after a passport change (when required), you may:
- Face delays at immigration checkpoints.
- Be denied boarding by airlines.
- Experience visa complications when applying for services.
That’s why timely OCI renewal in Australia is essential for smooth travel.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Renew OCI After Passport Change in Australia
Here’s a breakdown of the OCI application from Australia when you’ve received a new passport:
1. Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to prepare the following:
- Current valid passport (Australian passport if you are a citizen).
- Old passport (linked to the existing OCI card).
- Existing OCI card.
- Recent passport-sized photographs (digital as per specifications).
- Proof of address in Australia (like driver’s licence or utility bill).
2. Check Eligibility Category
Confirm whether you’re applying for:
- Renewal of OCI for minors (every time a passport is issued before the age of 20).
- It is a one-time renewal (after turning 20 or after turning 50).
3. Fill the Online Application
Go to the official OCI application portal and complete the online form. Match all details (name, passport number, date of birth, etc.).
4. Upload Digital Photograph and Signature
You’ll be required to upload:
- A recent colour passport photo in the correct dimensions.
- A digital signature (for minors, parents can sign).
5. Submit and Print Application
After completing the form, download and print a copy of the application. This will be required during the submission process.
6. Pay the Applicable Fees
The fees vary depending on whether you are applying for renewal, re-issue, or miscellaneous services.
7. Lodge Your Application
Applications must be lodged with supporting documents. There may be a requirement to submit in person or by mail, depending on the category.
8. Track Application Status
Your OCI renewal application in Australia can be tracked online using the reference number provided to you when you submitted the application.
Average Processing Time
On average, OCI renewal from Australia takes 6–8 weeks, but delays can occur if:
- Documents are incomplete.
- Verification is required in India.
- There’s a high volume of applications during peak seasons.
Pro Tip: Apply well in advance, especially if you have upcoming travel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in OCI Renewal in Australia
- Using old or wrong pictures.
- There are differences between the information on the passports and the OCI application.
- Not renewing when necessary, especially for children.
- Sending in sets of documents that aren’t complete.
Simplify OCI Renewal with Bharat Suvidha
Simple 3-Step Process
01. Register & share details
Sign up and share your information easily to start your hassle-free OCI renewal process.
02. Experts Handle the Application
Our experts will manage the entire OCI application from Australia, ensuring it is accurate and avoids unnecessary delays.
03. Application Lodged & Delivered
We will submit your application and provide the papers right to your door.
Note: Bharat Suvidha is a private company that is not connected to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the Consulates, the High Commission of India, or VFS Global.
Wrap-Up
Finally, if you’ve renewed your passport in Australia, you should also check to see if your OCI card needs to be updated. Remember that kids need a new passport every time they get one, but adults only need a new one when they turn 20 and again when they are 50.
Keeping your OCI renewal updated in Australia helps avoid last-minute travel problems and ensures your papers align with immigration requirements. Bharat Suvidha’s step-by-step process ensures that your application is handled correctly from start to finish, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
FAQs on OCI Renewal in Australia
How long does OCI renewal take in Australia?
It normally takes 6 to 8 weeks, although it could take longer if more proof is needed.
Do I need to renew my OCI card when changing my passport?
No. Minors must renew their passports every time they turn 20. Adults between 20 and 50 renew only once after turning 20, and again once after turning 50.
Can I travel with my new passport and old OCI card without renewal?
Only if you fall in the age range 21–49 and have already updated your OCI after turning 20, otherwise, you must renew your OCI before travelling.
