Since 2021, OCI Card renewal rules have been gradually relaxed. However, confusion still exists between when to renew your OCI Card and when you just update it online. Compliance with the OCI guidelines for renewal and timely updating is a mandate for hassle-free travel to India these days. Inarguably, your smooth entry into and exit from India depends on the updated OCI Card, alongside the new Digital e-Arrival Card and the passport with minimum 6-month validity.
When your OCI card must be renewed and reissued
Physical reissuance of OCI cards is mandatory in certain scenarios. Indian-origin foreign citizens must get their OCI cards renewed and reissued once after they turn 20 or 50, especially when their passport is renewed. The government of India mandates OCI Card reissuance with your latest photo capturing your facial feature changes on turning 20 or 50.
Other scenarios that require reissuance of OCI cards:
- Damage or loss of the OCI card
- Change in name, such as after marriage
- Change in nationality
- Correction of errors in the existing card
When not to go for OCI Card reissuance
If Indian-origin foreign citizens get their first OCI Card after they turn 20 or 50, they don’t need to get the OCI Card reissued on renewal of the passport. The OCI card rules were relaxed in 2021 for first-time OCI cardholders. Without reissuance of the OCI card, they can travel to and from India hassle-free.
What is the OCI Card renewal process in USA?
The process to get your OCI Card reissued in the US is simple and straightforward; however, careful preparation is recommended.
Check Eligibility: Check and confirm you have a valid reason to renew the OCI Card, whether it is lost or damaged, whether your name or any other information needs correction, whether you recently celebrated your 20th or 50th birth anniversary.
Get Necessary Documents: Your current OCI Card, old and new passports, a recent passport-size photograph, proof of address (for change of address), and supporting documents for your name or nationality change.
Complete Online Application: Visit the official OCI portal (ociservices.gov.in) and select the “OCI Re-issue / Miscellaneous Services” tab. Fill out the form and upload the required scanned documents and photograph.
Print and Submit the Application: After completing the online form, print it out and submit along with your OCI card, passports, and supporting documents to your nearest Indian Consulate or VFS Global Center in the US.
Pay the Fee: The standard OCI Card renewal fee in USA is approximately US$25 plus service charges. Fees for lost or duplicate OCI cards may be higher.
Track Your Application: Use the OCI portal or VFS tracking service to monitor the status of your application. Keep copies of all submitted documents for reference.
Receive the Renewed OCI Card: Once processed, the OCI card will be reissued to you via post. Check accuracy of all the details before booking international flight tickets to India.
Can I travel to India while my OCI Card update is pending?
Yes, you can travel to India from USA or any other country while your OCI Card update is pending, as long as you possess an OCI Card and a valid passport. However, it is recommended to complete the online update before traveling to avoid potential delays or complications during immigration clearance at Indian airports.
When do I need to update my OCI Card online without requiring reissuance?
Except in the abovementioned scenarios requiring OCI Card renewal and reissuance, you can simply update your OCI Card online whenever the passport is renewed. The basic OCI Card rules require those below 20 years, above 50 years, and in the 21-50 age group to update the OCI Card by uploading a scanned copy of the new passport and the latest photograph on the OCI portal within 3 months of receiving the passport. The Government of India requires your OCI Card to be updated with the new passport number.
OCI Card or Indian tourist visa: What’s ideal for foreign-born Indian kids?
“Both Indian tourist visa and OCI Card have pros and cons. In the event of emergency travel to India, you can get a tourist visa faster than an OCI Card for your kids born in the US or any other country. It must be noted that OCI cardholders get preference over tourist visa holders when it comes to travel to India amid international travel restrictions. Check out our comparative guide on OCI Card vs Indian tourist visa,” said Sourav Agarwal, Senior Editor at IndianEagle.com.
