OCI Card Renewal / Reissue in the UK

OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) is a form of identification for people of Indian origin. It grants the people some rights and privileges in India. Sometimes, OCI Card Renewal / Reissue in the UK is requisite.

In this blog, we will learn a little more about the OCI Card Renewal / Reissue in the UK process. This blog will make sure that you are well-informed to complete the process with ease.

What is an OCI Card?

Overseas Citizen of India is a lifelong visa for people of Indian origin. It allows the OCI cardholder and their spouse to live, work, and study in India for an indefinite period. It has other benefits also such as the right to buy a property in India. Agricultural and plantation properties are an exception. Also, the cardholder enjoys the same rights as an Indian national. Be it in terms of domestic airfare and entry fees to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

The OCI card is an important document for members of Indian origin. It provides a tie to their ancestral homeland and makes traveling to India easy. With an OCI status, a person can get access to various services in India.

Why OCI Card Renewal / Reissue in the UK is requisite?

OCI cardholders may have to renew or reissue their OCI cards because of several reasons.

For example, re-issuance is essential every time the passport is renewed up to the age of 20. Also, after the age of 50 years constant biological changes happen in this age group.

Likewise, you may want to renew or reissue the OCI card to make changes in personal details. It may include changing your name, address, etc.

You may also need renewal if your current OCI card gets damaged or lost. The most common reason is the expiry of the card, which happens when the passport is renewed.

Renewal or re-issuance is mandatory to keep the details akin to your current passport. It is important for international travel and the purpose of identification.

The OCI Card Application process and processing time are the same as the new OCI card application. Required documents also remain the same as a new application. An exception is that you don't have to prove your Indian origin yet again. Rather, you have to provide documents to prove your situation. 

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Renewal Process For An OCI Card

To renew an OCI card, the process is simple but needs attention to some details. Applicants have to fill out the necessary forms. They have to provide personal details about their existing OCI card and passport. You can get access to the forms on the official OCI website. You can submit it online or in person at any nearest Indian consulate or embassy.

The application process involves verifying your current details and updating any changed information. Also, they make sure that all the documents are provided in the correct order.

Re-Issuance Process For OCI Cards

You have to re-issue an OCI Card under some situations. Like when there is any change in your details or when you issue a new passport. It can happen after the age of 20 or upon reaching the age of 50. This is to make sure that your OCI card has the most recent details and stays valid as a form of identification. The process to re-issue an OCI Card is the same as the renewal process. However, some extra documents may be requisite to support the changes required.

Required Documents for Renewal / Reissue of OCI card

Transfer of OCI or renewal of Passport

Applicants may have to renew their old passport because of expiry. In such a case, they can transfer the OCI stamp from the old passport to the new one.

This is mandatory for people below the age of 20 and above the age of 50. The required documents are:

  • Copy of old passport with the original passport
  • A copy of the new passport with the original
  • Copy of all the pages of your current OCI along with the original.

Re-issue of OCI in case of loss/stolen OCI booklet or passport

If your passport or OCI stolen is lost then you have to apply for re-issue of a new OCI card. In this situation, you have to provide:

  • Copy of old passport
  • OCI booklet's copy.
  • Your new passport's copy

Along with the copies, the original of any paper in possession (not lost) is mandatory.

  • A copy of the police report/crime reference number
  • A letter/declaration from the applicant. It must explain the situation in which the documents were lost.
  • Surrender certificate's copy with those of Indian origin.

Issue of new OCI visa and OCI booklet. In case of a damaged OCI booklet or change of personal details.

If your OCI booklet or passport with OCI sticker gets damaged. Then you can apply for the re-issue of a new OCI card.

Likewise, you must apply for a new OCI card to change your name or address. Also, if you wish to correct any information like DOB or place of birth.

In such a situation, you will have to provide these documents:

  • Copy of all the pages of your OCI booklet along with the original.
  • The current passport's copy along with the original
  • In case of a damaged OCI sticker, provide a copy of your old damaged passport and the original.

If you do not receive your damaged passport by the passport office on renewal of the passport. Then you have to include a letter stating the situation in which the passport got damaged.

You also have to confirm that you have not received the damaged passport from the office.

Understanding the Online Application Process

The Indian Government has introduced an online application process for OCI renewal/reissue. It made the application process easier as people can complete it by being in their comfort zone.

Applicants can fill out the application form, upload the document, and pay the fees. All of this is possible through the official online portal. This has made the process more convenient for applicants around the globe. Applicants can also track the status of their application via this online system. It helps in adding transparency and ease to the application process.

Know About The Processing Time and Fees

The processing time for an OCI card renewal and re-issuance may vary. It will depend on the number of applications present and the situation of the applicant.

The fees are also conditional. It is advised to visit the official website or consult the Indian embassy or consulate. This will help in getting the latest and up-to-date information. Applicants must be aware of the processing time and make plans according to that. Mainly when they have any upcoming travel plans to India.

Stay Away From Making Mistakes

The passport application process is lengthy and can be overwhelming. Even after concentrating and focusing throughout, you may end up making silly mistakes. Some common mistakes include:

  • Filling incorrect forms or adding irrelevant information
  • Submitting outdated or wrong documents.
  • Failing to pay the exact amount for fees
  • Missing out on some important document

Applicants must double-check every piece of information. Also, make sure to follow the instructions provided on the official website. This way you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free application process.

It is mandatory to apply for renewal or re-issuance in advance. It will help you avoid any last-minute hindrance which may affect your travel plans.

Seek For Support

When you apply for an OCI card, or PIO to OCI conversion you may need help. The application process for these can be complex. In such situations, you can always ask for assistance from a professional.

Visament is one of the most trusted professional websites to seek help from. They have a team of experts to help people from London, England, Britain, or anywhere around the globe. Their team can not only make the process easier but also can guide you throughout the process. They can help you with a visa, OCI card, passport, police clearance certificate help, etc.

Contact Visament to enjoy a stress-free application process. Get your application approved on the first try with expert assistance.

Wrapping It Up

Renewal and re-issuance is a vital process to keep your OCI card valid and updated. When you choose online services in the UK be it for renewal or reissuance ensure to stay informed. It will help you maintain your rights and privileges in India. Follow the correct steps to enjoy a smooth and stress-free application process. Start the renewal or re-issuance process in advance to avoid any potential problems. Stay informed to continue enjoying the benefits of OCI status without interruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can track the status of your application online by using the official OCI portal. You can use the application number to track your status.

No, the OCI renewal application process cannot be expedited. Applicants should apply in advance for renewal or re-issuance to avoid any hindrances.

You should renew your OCI card whenever a new passport is issued for minors below the age of 20 or after turning 50. It must be done to make sure that you adhere to the OCI guidelines.

Yes, you have to submit a recent passport-sized photograph for renewal/reissuance. It must be according to the guidelines for the photograph. Specific dimensions and background color must be followed

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