OCI Card for Family: Eligibility, Documents & Application Process

Applying for the OCI card for the entire family can be quite easy, as you can apply for them together. Although the OCI applications need to be separate for each of the members, it saves a lot of time and simplifies the process. If you want to obtain an OCI card for family, then you should know that it can be done for the entire family together, and each member must meet the eligibility criteria and submit the applications individually.

In this blog, we have explained all the details related to the OCI card for family. You should follow all the OCI rules & restrictions while applying. Follow the steps carefully after checking the eligibility for the application.

Can You Apply for an OCI Card for Family?

Yes, you can easily apply for an OCI card for your family members. You can apply together for all the members to simplify the process.

But, there are some rules that you must follow:

• Each person is required to submit their separate application.
• Every person will receive a separate OCI card after their application.
• No family or group OCI card is available.

What are the Latest OCI Rules & Updates?

The Indian Government has introduced various latest OCI Rules & Updates to streamline the OCI services:

Completely Online Application System

You need to submit all the OCI applications through the official portal: OCI Services Portal.

Minor Passport Rule

A minor who acquires foreign citizenship must surrender Indian Passport before applying for an OCI Card.

Introduction of e-OCI

The e-OCI card, which is the digital version of the OCI card, has been introduced for easier tracking, faster processing, and reduced paperwork.

Mandatory Passport Update Rule

OCI cardholders are generally required to update passport details online after obtaining a new passport once after turning 20 and once after turning 50.

No Minimum Stay Requirement

The applicants are no longer required to stay in India for a minimum of 6 months before applying for an OCI card.

Updated Fees (Approx.)

The updated fees for the OCI card application in India are Rs 15,000, and outside India is USD $275 (varies by country).

What is the Eligibility for an OCI Card?

In this section, we have mentioned the eligibility for an OCI card:

1. Main Applicant (Person of Indian Origin)

You are eligible to apply for an OCI card if:

• You were an Indian citizen in the past, or
• Your parents or grandparents were Indian citizens at some time

2. Spouse of an Indian Citizen/ OCI Cardholder

A foreign spouse is eligible for an OCI card if:

• The marriage is legally registered
• The marriage has been valid for a minimum of 2 years
• The spouse is an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder

All the applications go through the security checks before processing.

3. Minor Children

The children are eligible for an OCI card if at least one parent is an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder. They have to submit the birth certificate and the documents of the parents.

Also Want to Know About OCI Card for Senior Citizens? Check Now!

Who is Not Eligible for the OCI Card Application?

You are not eligible to apply for an OCI card if:

• You or your parents/grandparents were citizens of Bangladesh or Pakistan.
• The marriage is not genuine for spouse-based applications.
• You are/served in foreign military or any government security services (in some specific cases).

List of Required Documents for OCI Application for Family 

Here is the list of all the documents that are required for the OCI applications for family:

For Main Applicant

• Address proof
• Current foreign passport
• Old Indian passport or proof of Indian origin

For Children

• Passport of the parents
• Birth certificate
• Consent from both parents

For Spouse

• Marriage certificate
• Declaration confirming ongoing marriage
• Passport of the Indian spouse or OCI card copy

Also Want to Know About Link OCI Card with New Foreign Passport? Check Now!

What is the OCI Application Process?

Here is the process for applying for an OCI card for family:

1. Fill the Online Application

Visit the official portal for OCI application and then complete the form for each applicant.

2. Upload the Required Documents

Upload all the necessary documents, such as a photograph, Signature, Passport, and other supporting documents.

3. Pay the Required Fees

You can pay the fees online or by visiting the authorized centres.

4. Submit the Application

Then, you need to submit the documents at the Indian Embassy/Consulate or at the authorised centres like VFS Global.

5. Track the Status of your Application

You can also track your application by using the application number on the OCI official portal.

Also Want to Know About OCI holder Apply for Indian Citizenship? Check Now!

What is the Processing Time for an OCI Card for a family?

The processing time for the OCI card applications is typically 4 to 8 weeks. This time can vary depending on the country and verification process.

What are the Important Rules & Restrictions?

• The OCI cardholders are not allowed to vote in Indian elections.
• They cannot hold any type of government job.
• They are not permitted to purchase agricultural or plantation property.

Privileges for OCI Card Holders

• The OCI cardholders can stay in India for an unlimited duration of time.
• They can travel without any visa restrictions; they do not need to apply for multiple visa applications.
• They can easily work in private sector jobs.
• They can study in India in the private educational institutions.

Some Important Tips To Avoid Rejections

• You should make sure that all the documents and details match, such as names, dates, passport details, etc.
• You should upload all the clear scanned copies.
• You need to provide the genuine proof of your marriage for spouse cases.
• Always double-check the minor applicants carefully.
• You should apply together for faster coordination.

Conclusion

If you are applying for an OCI card for your family, then it is a very straightforward process if you follow the steps correctly. Keep in mind that each of the members needs to apply individually; you can apply on their behalf. The eligibility for the OCI application is based on their relationship. There are new rules made for the OCI cards that focus on digital processing and stricter compliance.

You can also take assistance from the experts of Visament, as they have many years of experience in this field. They are aware of all the rules and can apply for your OCI applications error-free.