OCI Miscellaneous Services in the USA

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The full form of OCI is overseas citizenship of India. It is given to those people who are of Indian origin and living in foreign for an indefinite period. Are you also an OCI residing in the USA? If yes do you know that keeping updated your OCI card is vital for you to maintain seamless residency and travel rights? Considering this are you also seeking OCI miscellaneous services in the USA? If yes then you are on the right page. Here we have mentioned all the things that you need to know about these services. In addition its application process. So read on and gather all the information that you are looking for.

What Are OCI Miscellaneous Services?

The OCI miscellaneous services involve the corrections, updates, or reissuance of your OCI card. The following services work according to several scenarios. In addition work according to OCI card holders to comply with country regulations. Moving ahead, let's know some of the common situations where you can use OCI miscellaneous services in the USA:

  • OCI Card Renewal: When you receive a new passport and want to reissue your OCI card.
  • Change in Address: Updating your residential details on your OCI card.
  • Updating Personal Details: Changes in your marital status, name changes, or correction errors.
  • Replacement in case of Loss or Damage: Applying for a new OCI card in case of damage or loss.

These are the common OCI miscellaneous services in the USA that you can apply for. However, before beginning the process it is advisable to know about the documents. Want to know about the papers? Read below and gather all the information.

Benefits and Eligibility of OCI Card

An OCI card permits you to stay in India for as long as you want. There are no limits on how many times you can enter and exit India. It offers multiple benefits to the cardholder. However, an individual has to meet some eligibility criteria to apply for an OCI card. Let’s talk about the benefits and eligibility of an OCI card:

➜ Benefits of OCI Card

An OCI card is a lifelong visa which means that it is valid for the cardholder’s entire life. It can be used as identity proof when obtaining a lot of services. There are a lot more benefits of having an OCI card such as:

  • OCI cardholders have visa-free access to India throughout their lifetime. It means they can enter and exit India multiple times without the need for a separate visa each time.
  • An OCI card provides the cardholders with equal rights and benefits with those of NRI in various fields like economic, financial, or educational. It creates a sense of quality and belonging.
  • The OCI cardholder can get consular protection from the Indian diplomatic missions abroad. They can ask for help during emergencies, travel advisories, and other consular matters.
  • The cardholder can stay in India for any length of stay without registering with the Foreign Regional Registration Office (FRRO). They can stay in India for as long as they want without stressing about visa extensions or renewals.
  • They have the right to take part in various business activities in India. This includes setting up a new business, partnership,s and companies. They are also free to invest in various financial assets like mutual funds, stocks, bonds, insurance, etc.

➜ Eligibility of OCI Card

Not everyone can apply for an OCI card. To apply for an OCI card, one must fulfill these eligibility criteria:

  • An individual who was a citizen of India at the time or after the commencement of the Indian constitution (on or after the 26th of January, 1950).
  • Individuals who were eligible to become Indian citizens at the time commencement of the Indian constitution. (on or after the 26th of January, 1950).
  • People who were citizens of some other country but belonged to a territory that became a part of India after the 15th of August, 1947.
  • The child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of any individual who falls under the first three categories is also eligible to apply for an OCI card.
  • Minor children whose parents are citizens of India or fall under the first four categories can also apply for an OCI card.

Documents Required for OCI Miscellaneous Services in the USA

OCI cardholders who have made some changes in their passport or appearance or got new ones need to apply for OCI miscellaneous services in the USA. In addition, minors when renewing their passport should also apply for a new OCI card. Moving further, let's know the Required OCI Documents for the process:

➜ Required Documents for OCI Miscellaneous Services

OCI Miscellaneous Application Documents

The following papers are needed during the OCI miscellaneous services in the USA:

  • Signed and dated application form.
  • Picture Page copy of your new USA Passport.
  • Picture Page copy of your old USA Passport. In case the old passport got stolen or damaged provide a letter from the police.
  • Two recent color photographs with white background 5cm x 5cm. (Note: Do not reuse the photos from the previous OCI card.)
  • Original OCI card.
  • Fee receipt copy of the application.
  • Self-addressed stamped envelope for the new OCI card delivery.
  • Address proof/ copy of city registration.

➜ Required Documents for Fresh OCI Application

In the fresh OCI application, additional papers are required all with the above-mentioned papers:

  • Original and copy of canceled Indian passport
  • Original I/C copy
  • Birth certificate
  • Original and copy of renounced Indian citizenship document
  • Proof of parents, grandparents, self or great-grandparents previous Indian passport. In addition, you can also submit a birth certificate, local residential proof, and a valid foreign passport.

➜  Required Documents for Minor's OCI Application

In case the applicant is a minor along with the above-mentioned papers they need to submit the following papers:

  • Copy of residence permits of parents if they are not USA citizens.
  • Picture page copy of parent's passports.

➜ Documents for PIO to OCI Conversion

Apart from the mandatory documents you need to submit the following papers for PIO to OCI conversion:

  • Copy of "U" visa
  • Original and copy of PIO
  • Original and current passport copy of the applicant
  • I/C copy

➜ Documents for Spouse OCI Application

In case of OCI application of an Indian citizen spouse the following documents are needed:

  • Original and copy of the spouse name page.
  • Original and copy of the OCI card including the name page. It is when the spouse holds the OCI card.
  • Original and copy of evidence of spouse canceled Indian passport or current passport.
  • Registered certificate of marriage.

➜ Documents for Damaged or Lost OCI Card

Following are the additional documents you need to submit in case of Damage and Lost OCI card:

  • Original and copy of the police report
  • Original and copy of current passport
  • Copies of Lost OCI or passport

These are the following documents you need while applying for OCI miscellaneous services in the USA. Along with the process you do need to submit the original papers for verification. After your application submission, the documents will be returned to you. With this, let's know the fees of this service in the USA.

Fees for OCI Miscellaneous Services in the USA

The fees of OCI miscellaneous services in the USA are as follows:

A

OCI Miscellaneous Services

$25

B

VFS Service Fee

15.90 per application

C

ICWF- Indian Community Welfare Fund

$3

D

Optional Fee

SMS, Courier Service, etc.

Apart from the above-stated fees, payment by card or online, @3.5% will be charged as a convenience. In addition, it is over the total payment. Also, the services accept only visas and master cards. However, if you are paying through cashier checks, money orders, or bankers, it is made in favor of VFS Services (USA) Inc.

It was all about the fees of OCI miscellaneous services in the USA. Moving ahead, let us know how to apply for this process.

How to Apply for OCI Miscellaneous Services in the USA?

To avail of the above miscellaneous services in the USA you must apply for OCI registration with your registered OCI card. In addition through the following process, you can apply for the services:

  • To enable the services you need to apply online. For this, you have to visit the Ministry site- https://passport.gov.in/oci/OnlineOCIRegistrationG.jsp. Here you get the online application form.
  • The application consists of two parts- A and B.
  • First, you need to fill out the A part and upload the documents and thumb/signature impression. Please certify that the mentioned details are complete and correct. Then click on the submit option and move to part B.
  • After that, like part A fill out part B and submit the form with the supporting documents.
  • On the top right side of the application form, a reference number will be generated. Note down that number as it helps you in checking the application status and reprint. Then, save the information you mention in both parts- A and B.
  • After that, you will see a print window. From there click on "ok" for the printout of the application form carrying parts A and B. Also, make sure that all the boxes, lines, and information are present in the form.
  • Mention your email ID and contact number in the contact detail column at Sr. No. 29 and 30.
  • Make the payment online and mail/ courier your application to the VFS Indian Consular Application Center. With this, do not forget to take a copy of the payment receipt for proof.

It is how you can apply for OCI miscellaneous services in the USA online. Now, moving ahead, let's know about the application process time.

Processing Time for OCI Miscellaneous Services in the USA

The OCI miscellaneous services in the USA processing time is generally 6 to 8 weeks. It includes services like transferring passport details or changing personal details to a new OCI visa or card. However, the process time can vary depending on the application and applicant type:

  • New OCI applicant: From the date of registration 5 to 6 working days.
  • OCI card: The average time for this process is 7-11 weeks. However, it may take more time if the application is not complete.
  • Updating or Re-issuance of OCI card: The general processing time for this process is 6-7 weeks.
  • New OCI cases: For them, the process time may be 30 days or longer.

This is the general process time of OCI miscellaneous services in the USA. In addition, if you send the application via post, it may take 8-10 extra working days. You can also check the OCI application status online by visiting the status inquiry portal.

However, if are unable to check the status you can take help from Visament. The experts here can guide you on "how to check OCI application status?" Moving ahead, now let's know on what circumstance an applicant cannot apply for the OCI services.

How to Check OCI Miscellaneous Status in the USA

You must be curious to know about the status of your application. You can track the status of your OCI application online. Consider these steps to track the update on your OCI miscellaneous application in the USA:

Step 1. Visit the Official Website for OCI services - Go to the official website of the Indian Government Ministry of External Affairs or the VFS Global portal. These are the two portals handling OCI services in the USA.

Step 2. Choose the “Status Inquiry” Option

  • On the OCI services website, go to the “Status Inquiry” tab.
  • On the VFS Global website, click on the “Track your application” option.

Step 3. Fill Out the Required Details -you need to provide some details which include:

  • Your OCI application number of file reference number that you have received while submitting your application.
  • Your passport number or any other personal information as requested.

Step 4. Submit the Details -After adding all the required details, check if all information is correct. Click on the “Submit or Track status” button.

Step 5. Check the Application Status -Your current status of the OCI miscellaneous application will be displayed as:

  • Processing stage
  • Approved or under review
  • Dispatched details (if applicable)

Ask for Support if Needed

You can contact the officials for any support or issues. Also, to get information regarding anything.
Visit our website to track the status of your application. Get instant updates about your OCI Miscellaneous Application Status in the USA. 

Circumstances When OCI Card Will Not Be Issued in the USA

Following are the circumstances where an applicant did not get an OCI card in the USA:

1. OCI Denial Due to Foreign Military Service

If the applicant was part of military service, including his/her home country is not eligible for an OCI card in the USA. This rule applies to all Indian-origin citizens exempt from the Israeli.

2. OCI Denial Due to Foreign Spouse Status

An applicant who had gained the status of OCI through marriage to an OCI cardholder is also not Eligible for OCI if they get divorced.

3. OCI Denial Due to Citizenship of Bangladesh or Pakistan

An applicant who is or was a citizen of Bangladesh or Pakistan, or any of his family members of these nations is not eligible for an OCI card in the USA.

4. OCI Denial for Foreign-born Children with Divorced Parents

A foreign-born child with one foreign and one Indian parent and divorced parents is also not eligible for an OCI card in the USA.

These are the following cases where an applicant is not eligible for an OCI card in the USA. You can also get the information about it online by visiting the OCI application site. Moving forward, let's know the guidelines about the OCI miscellaneous services.

Important Guidelines for OCI Miscellaneous Services

The following OCI miscellaneous guidelines are been in force since 2005:

  • Each time an applicant up to the age of 20 years applies for a new passport needs to re-issue his/her card.
  • The applicants who are between 21 and 50 years of age doe not required to re-issue their OCI card when re-issue their passport.
  • After completing 50 years of age if the applicant applies for a new passport need to re-issue his/her OCI card. Also, it is compulsory for OCI renewal after 50 years of age.
  • In addition in case of damage or loss of OCI documents, the service would only be provided after the personal interview.

These are the guidelines that an applicant needs to consider while applying for OCI miscellaneous services in the USA. Furthermore, for more information you can contact to Visament. The experts will better explain the OCI card guidelines. Also if you want they can assist you with the process. Still confused why to take help from us? Read the next section and get answers to all your questions.

How Visament Can Help You with OCI Miscellaneous Services in USA

As mentioned above keeping updated on the OCI card is vital to maintain a seamless residency and travel rights in the USA. Well, for this a person needs a proper understanding of the process and documents. Considering this, Visament is an expert in this. Our OCI miscellaneous services in the USA are designed to make the OCI card reissuing and change services hassle-free. From damaged card replacement to changes in address, we are here to guide you at every step. Moving further, let's know the reasons why chose us for your assistance.

  • Handling the requirements of online OCI services in USA can be challenging. However, this thing is not with our experts. They better understand this process and know how to tackle the situation. They simplify the process for you and provide you with personalized guidance as per your preference.
  • Whether you are looking for help for complex situations or urgent services we are here to assist you. As mentioned above we offer our customers personalized services for their unique situations.
  • Well, when it comes to visa or passport consulting services people always fear the hidden cost the companies charge from them. This is not the case with Visament. Our services costs are transparent and competitive. In addition, it does not involve any hidden prices.

The following are reasons you should consider choosing us. With this, we give you the surety to provide you with the best online OCI services in USA. Furthermore, we can also assist you with any Indian passport or visa services in the USA. So, feel free to take help from us.

What More You Can Expect From Visament

There are a lot of perks to choosing Visament. You don’t have to navigate to different websites searching for various services as you can get every immigration service in one place. So, these are the additional services that you can get from Visament:

  • OCI Card Renewal/Reissue: Reissuing or Renewing an OCI Card after turning 20 and at the age of 50 is mandatory. Visament can help you get your OCI card renewed swiftly without any delay.
  • Lost/Damaged OCI Card: Have you lost your OCI card? Don’t worry, connect with us and get solutions for lost/damaged OCI cards. Our team is available 24*7 to assist you and solve every query to help you avoid stress.
  • OCI for Minors: You can apply for an OCI card for your minors. It will help them avail of all the OCI benefits. The visament team will guide you throughout the process to help you enjoy a smooth OCI application process.
  • Passport Renewal: Is your passport about to expire? Need help with renewing your passport? Well, you are at the right place as Visament offers assistance with the passport renewal process also.
  • Visa Renewal: We understand that the visa renewal process is lengthy and daunting. Keeping this in mind, we help our precious customers to get their visas renewed easily. Connect with us and get the best services without waiting in queues.

Why Choose Us for OCI Miscellaneous Services in the USA

These are the following OCI miscellaneous services in the USA that you can apply for. In addition, the procedure for applying for it is also mentioned in the blog. Hope after reading it you get some idea of the services and their application process. Furthermore, if you need more guidance or help you are free to contact Visament. The experts here assist you throughout the whole process and solve all your queries. Do connect with us now and get the best OCI services by your side.

Frequently Asked Questions

In the USA, the VFS Global Application Center is authorized to issue OCI card services for the Indian embassy, Washington DC, or its Consulates in Chicago, San Francisco, Houston, Atlanta, New York, and Chicago.

OCI card holders who are 20 years or younger, should renew the card each time when they apply for a new passport. However, the applicants who are 21 to 49 years of age it is not mandatory to renew their card whenever they apply for a passport.

To foreign applicants who intend to live in India, the OCI card provides the utmost convenience. However, it still considers them as foreign citizens. Also through Section 7 B of the Citizenship Act, they have multiple entries, purposes, and lifelong visas for coming and living in India.

According to the new rules when the applicant gets a new passport issued after 21 years of age they only once have to reissue the OCI card. However, it is vital for them to upload the online copy of the latest photo and new passport every time a new passport is issued before 21 years of age.

The interview is needed only when the OCI application comes under the category of foreign spouse. After the personal interview with the applicant and his/her spouse, the application proceeded further.

An applicant whose birth certificate only holds the name and nationality of one parent and another parent is not known they are not eligible for OCI miscellaneous services in the USA. In addition, stateless and asylee applicants are also not eligible for OCI services.

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