Lost or Damaged OCI Card Replacement Services in the UK

The OCI card is one of the most important cards that works as a lifetime visa. Losing or damaging an important document can also be a daunting experience. No matter whether it is an overseas citizen of India card or any other document. An OCI card is more than just a travel document for UK citizens. This card is a bridge that connects citizens of the United Kingdom with Indian heritage, offering rights and privileges that hold deep personal value. If you are a citizen of the UK and mistakenly lost your OCI card for the United States, then it is an unfortunate situation.

But if your UK OCI card is lost and damaged, then do not worry; this guide belongs to you. In this blog, we will understand the process, prepare, and navigate you smoothly for your lost and damaged OCI card.

Before knowing the process of a damaged or lost OCI card in the UK, we will look at the importance of an OCI card.

Understanding the Importance of an OCI Card

When we talk about an Indian OCI card for UK citizens, then overseas Citizen of India cards play a vital role. It is an important document for people of Indian origin; they can choose citizenship of another country, such as the UK. Lets check the benefits of an OCI card in the UK.

Benefits of an Indian OCI Card for UK Citizens:

• Visa-Free Travel to India: OCI cardholders do not need to apply for a visa each time they visit India.
• Extended Stay in India: The card permits an indefinite stay in India.
• Access to Services: OCI cardholders can own property, open bank accounts, and even apply for government schemes in India.

It can feel like a crisis to lose or damage your OCI card because of its importance. To replace it, though, the Indian government has a thorough and transparent procedure in place. Your Indian OCI card has been lost or damaged? If yes, then let's discuss the things to do if your OCI card is lost or damaged in the UK

What to Do if Your OCI Card is Lost or Damaged

1.) Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Losing your important document can be stressful, but it is important to handle the situation with a calm mind. First, ensure that your card is genuinely lost or irreparable if damaged.

2.) File a Police Report (for Lost Cards)

If your Indian OCI card for the UK is lost, filing a police report is the first step. This report will serve as proof and may be required during the OCI replacement process.

3.) Gather Necessary Information

You will need the following details:

• Your OCI card number (if available).
• A copy of your original OCI card or acknowledgment letter (if you have it).
• Details of how and when the card was lost or damaged.

Now it's time to know the OCI renewal in the UK or the replacement process of the OCI card if it's damaged or lost.

The OCI Replacement Process in the UK

Replacing a lost or damaged OCI card involves various steps. To know the detailed steps, stay tuned with us. Here we will know the step-by-step process of OCI card replacement.

Visit the VFS Global Website

In the UK, VFS Global manages OCI card-related services for the Indian High Commission. Start by visiting the VFS website and selecting "OCI Services."

Fill Out the Online Application Form

The replacement process requires completing an online application through the Indian government’s OCI portal.

Select "OCI Miscellaneous Services" and choose "Replacement of OCI Card."

Fill in your details, such as name, date of birth, passport information, and the details about the lost or damaged OCI card.

Upload Required Documents for an Indian OCI Card:

1. Copy of the lost or damaged OCI card (if available).
2. Proof of your current UK citizenship (e.g., British passport).
3. Proof of Indian origin (e.g., old Indian passport, birth certificate).
4. Police report for lost OCI cards.
5. Recent passport-sized photographs (as per specifications).

Pay the fee for the OCI Card:

After losing or damaging an OCI card, the replacement fees for this card vary. In the UK, expect to pay approximately £75, along with additional service charges by VFS Global. Payment can usually be made online during the application process.

Schedule an Appointment for Overseas Citizens of India Card:

After the compilation of your Indian OCI card application, you need to schedule an appointment and provide biometric verification.

• Fingerprints and photographs.
• Provide original documents for verification.

Attend the Appointment

It is the next step to avail of the lost or damaged OCI card replacement service in the UK. So, after submitting the documents for an Indian OCI card, be ready to attend the appointment on time. Do not forget to carry all the required documents, including originals and photocopies. The VFS staff will guide you through the verification process.

Track Your Application

After submitting the OCI application form, the applicant can track progress through the VFS Global website. Processing times typically range from 4 to 6 weeks but may vary based on individual cases.

Practical Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience

• Double-Check Documentation: Incomplete documentation is one of the most common reasons behind OCI card delays. For this, you can get help from this blog and check VFS Global to check all the required documents for OCI renewal in the UK
• Choose a Convenient VFS Center: There are multiple VFS global centers across the UK to apply for OCI. You can select any one according to your convenience and avoid unnecessary travel stress.
• Plan for Processing Time: If you need your OCI card urgently, consider the processing time when scheduling travel plans.
• Keep Copies of Everything: Always keep photocopies and digital backups to get an Indian OCI card in UK that is lost or damaged.

Common Challenges for OCI Miscellaneous Services in the UK

1. Lost Access to Original OCI Number: If you don’t have a copy of your original OCI card or number, the VFS team can assist in retrieving your details from the database.
2. Confusion with Document Requirements: Reach out to the VFS helpline or consult their detailed guides for clarity on what is needed.
3. Delays in Processing: While delays can be frustrating, tracking your application regularly and following up with VFS Global can help.

What Happens After Replacement?

Once your replacement OCI card is issued, it will be delivered to you or made available for collection at the VFS center. Ensure you check the card thoroughly for accuracy, including name, date of birth, and other details.

Maintaining Your New OCI Card

• Store your card in a secure, waterproof place.
• Keep a digital backup of the card on your phone or cloud storage.
• Notify authorities immediately if it is lost or stolen.

This is all about lost or damaged OCI card replacement services in the UK. So if you lost your OCI card or damaged OCI card and are looking for the best immigration service provider, then choose Visament.

Let's know the reasons why Visament is one of the best immigration service providers all around the world.

Why to choose Visament for Immigration Services:

Visament offers the best immigration assistance. No matter if you are looking for a new OCI card, OCI Card Renewal / Reissue, or Conversion of a PIO Card to an OCI Card

Lost or Damaged OCI Card, and for OCI Miscellaneous Services. This immigration service provider in India offers the best rates, takes minimum time, and provides 24*7 assistance.