The new forms for OCI are very very simple.
Make sure that you have access to internet and a printer( as you would need to print the form once you put in the information)
Here is what needs to be done.
1. Goto the Ministry of Home Affairs site, read the brochure and FAQ to get familarised with the process first.
All you have to do is go the above mentioned page, click on the Online Registration.
Fill up the information required like
- Your name, date of birth, place of birth, address
- Your foreign passport number, date of issue, place of issue
- Your PIO card details ( if any)
- Your foreign citizenship date
- Your mother, father names
All this will only take about 5 minutes. Once you submit this information online you would get a confirmation page which needs to be printed ( this form will have a reference number).
How many copies of the forms are needed
Print 2 copies of this form and then fill up the information required in PART B of the form. ( It will also take about 5 minutes to fill)
What about photographs
Stick 2 photographs ( Now this is very very important otherwise your form will be rejected and you would be making another trip again to your High Commission office) .
I have seen many people being turned back by the high commission as they used the normal passport sized photographs which do not meet the specifications, please take time to read the specifications and go to your photographer and tell him what you need. Every country has different standards for the photographs for these travel documents, so make sure that you follow the specifications.
- The photos must be square in size ( atlease 3.5 cm X 3.5 cm with a light background and no border). The high commission will refuse to take your form if the photos are not of the right specification.
( Check this link for filling up the form and photo specifications.).
Make sure that you carry 2 sets of documents ( you can self attest these documents yourself, just sign the photocopies and date them).
Submit the forms to your local high commission office along with the required fee , it is best to check with the local Indian High commission to find out the exact amount in local currency.
How long it will take
Normally it should take 4 weeks to get the OCI .
Once the application is submitted you can check its progress online.
What will I get
You do not get a new passport , you simply get a sticker on your foreign passport and a small booklet which you need to carry each time you travel.