Are you an Indian citizen living in the US or the UK? Are you a child or a grandchild of a citizen of the Indian nation after 1950? If you tick these boxes, you have the right qualifications to meet the strict requirements needed for the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. Learning how to check OCI status online is essential, economical, and can be done from the comfort of your car or favourite couch.
The OCI card allows Indian foreign nationals several, visa-free entries into the Republic of India. It also gives opportunities to those willing to take part in the abundant commercial activities in India. Contrary to past events, when you had to visit the CKGS office to apply for the card, with technological advancements and with government officials promoting online OCI card applications, you can now view your OCI status online. Here is a step-by-step guide on the procedure for the OCI card application.
It is the Overseas Citizenship of India card or immigration status that permits foreign citizens of Indian origin to work and travel to the Republic of India. It came up because of several demands by the Indian diaspora, especially those in first-world nations since India does not allow dual citizenship.
After several negotiations, the Central Government offered the CKGS OCI status to individuals who migrated to another country or have ancestors belonging to India, except for Pakistan and Bangladesh.
NCA registration - Everything you need to know
The Indian government placed strict steps for OCI status application. If, for instance, this is your first OCI registration, you have to fill in the application form they offer on the 'new OCI registration' platform.
After a successful application, print a copy of the application form and the Online Registration Number. Later on, you will get OCI govt reference number and be an official OCI cardholder.
If you have to alter your details, occupation, or address or replace a OCI registration certificate/visa, find the time to check out the 'OCI miscellaneous services' and follow all the given instructions. Then upload the document and wait for the acknowledgement message from the Indian Mission/FRRO.
If you need to make an OCI reprint, use the 'Re-Print Submitted Application' service and take the already submitted application form.
While the OCI card application process comprises of several steps, you also have to set aside eight to ten weeks to complete the whole thing.
All you need to know about eFNS portal- registration, log in, and services
For starters, after applying for the OCI card. Your OCI application status will indicate "under process." The form is then sent to the Consulate and further processing in New Delhi, India. The step takes a maximum of 60 days.
READ ALSO: Indian passport renewal Dubai
After the Consulate receives the application in your jurisdiction, you will need to send your original US passport. Once the CKGS gets your passport, the processing continues.
Within three days the passport has to be sent to the Consulate which then requires several days to match up the US passport to the OCI card. The CKGS application facility requires an extra three days to ship your passport and OCI card. It might take a few days, but the final processing time depends on several factors like the number of working days and the duration the courier companies take to convey your passport.
DV lottery 2020 status check - process and results
To quickly check OCI status, visit the official government of India website, follow the information presented, and select the status inquiry option.
You may further check the registration number or the OCI reference number on the enquiry website. All is required of you is to click the link at the top written 'forgotten file reference number.' You will then use your passport number and date of birth to retrieve your registration number.
It takes eight to ten weeks after the application is sent to the Consulate.
This is a File Acknowledgement Number sent once the Indian Office receives your application. You can then view the status of your request at the Online Status Enquiry, either by filling in your registration number or file acknowledgement number.
Green Card Lottery 2021 registration and deadline
Technology continues to make life easier and better. So you do not have to travel to the CKGS office to apply or check OCI status. With the online OCI services option, you can quickly apply and replace your OCI registration certificate in a few minutes.
Subscribe to watch new videosREAD ALSO:
Winnie Mwangi (SEO writer) Winnie Aswani is a seasoned reporter. A graduate of Masinde Muliro University with a degree in social work and community development. She is passionate about digital marketing, content writing and volunteer services. Solve day-to-day challenges with her informative pieces.
