OCI services

OCI stands for Overseas Citizenship of India. It is a form of citizenship offered by the Indian government to individuals of Indian origin who are citizens of other countries. OCI status provides many benefits, making it an attractive option for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs).

Here are the benefits of OCI

Lifetime Visa-Free Travel to India:

OCI cardholders enjoy multiple entries into India for any purpose, including tourism, business, employment, and education, without the need for a separate visa. This visa-free travel privilege is valid for the duration of the OCI cardholder's lifetime.

Long-Term Stay in India:

OCI status allows individuals to stay in India for an extended period without the need for frequent visa renewals. OCI cardholders are permitted to reside in India indefinitely, making it easier to maintain connections with family and friends or pursue business opportunities.

Exemption from Registration Requirements:

Unlike foreign nationals, OCI cardholders are exempt from registration requirements for stays of any duration in India. This means they do not need to report to the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) during their time in the country.

Eligibility for Employment and Education:

OCI cardholders have the right to undertake employment in India in various sectors, except for certain government roles and positions. They are also eligible to study in Indian educational institutions, including universities and colleges, under the same conditions as Indian citizens.

Property Ownership:

OCI status allows individuals to own residential and commercial properties in India, subject to certain restrictions. This includes the right to buy, sell, or transfer immovable property in the country.

Investment Opportunities:

OCI cardholders have the freedom to invest in various sectors of the Indian economy, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. They can participate in India's economic growth and benefit from investment opportunities available to Indian citizens.

Access to Financial Services:

OCI cardholders have access to financial services in India, including opening bank accounts, obtaining loans, and investing in financial instruments. This facilitates financial management and planning for individuals with ties to India.

Social and Cultural Integration:

OCI status enables individuals to fully integrate into Indian society, participate in cultural and social activities, and contribute to the development of the country. It provides a sense of belonging and identity to individuals of Indian origin living abroad. 

Overall, OCI status offers numerous advantages, including visa-free travel, long-term residency rights, employment and educational opportunities, property ownership, and cultural integration, making it a highly sought-after status for individuals of Indian origin residing outside India.

Eligibility criteria

The eligibility criteria for obtaining Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status are outlined by the Indian government and are subject to change. Here’s a general overview of the OCI eligibility criteria:

1. Persons of Indian Origin (PIO):

Individuals who were citizens of India at the time of, or at any time after, the commencement of the Indian Constitution (26th January 1950), or who belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15th August 1947, are eligible for OCI status.

2. Spouses of Indian Citizens or PIOs:

Spouses of Indian citizens or PIOs are eligible for OCI if they are married to their Indian spouse for at least two years prior to the application date and have been living together during that time.

3. Minor Children of Indian Citizens or PIOs:

Minor children of Indian citizens or PIOs are eligible for OCI if both parents are either citizens of India or eligible for OCI at the time of application.

4. Grandchildren of Indian Citizens or PIOs:

Grandchildren of Indian citizens or PIOs are eligible for OCI if their grandparents are citizens of India or eligible for OCI at the time of application.

5. Other Categories:

Certain other categories of individuals, such as former Indian citizens who have renounced their Indian citizenship, may also be eligible for OCI status. Specific eligibility requirements for these categories are determined by the Indian government.

6. No Criminal Record:

Applicants must not have a criminal record, and they must not have been convicted or sentenced for any criminal offense in their home country or any other country.

7. Good Character:

Applicants must be of good character and conduct, and they must not have been involved in activities that are prejudicial to the interests of India or the Indian community abroad.

It’s important to note that the eligibility criteria for OCI may vary slightly depending on the individual’s circumstances and the specific requirements set by the Indian government at the time of application. Additionally, applicants are advised to consult the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs or the Indian embassy or consulate in their country for the most up-to-date information on OCI eligibility criteria and application procedures.

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OCI application process

Step 1

Engage in a free OCI consultation with us

Step 2

Upload all the necessary documents as requested by us

Step 3

We will Complete the application form on your behalf

Step 4

We book your appointment at your nearest OCI application centre

Step 5

Your application will get processed

Step 6

Receive your OCI Card