Documents Required for OCI Card Application in the US

If you are a foreign national and have been living in the US for more than one year, you may be eligible for an OCI card. An OCI card offers many advantages, including visa-free travel to India and exemption from reporting requirements while in India.

In order to apply for an OCI card, you will need to provide certain documents. The following is a list of the documents required for OCI card application in the US.

What Is an OCI Card Application?

An OCI card is an Overseas Citizen of India card. This is a document that allows Indian citizens to enjoy certain privileges in India. If you are a US resident and would like to apply for an OCI card, you will need to provide certain documents to the Indian consulate.

The following documents are required for the OCI card application:

1. Your valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of application.
2. Your original birth certificate and a photocopy of both sides of the certificate.
3. Your marriage certificate, if applicable, and a photocopy of both sides of the certificate.
4. Proof of your current US residency, such as a copy of your driver’s license or a recent utility bill.
5. Two passport-size photographs.

Eligibility for and Requirements of an OCI Card

The eligibility requirements for an OCI card differ depending on your nationality.

For example, if you are a citizen of a country that is listed on the OCI exempt countries list, then you are not required to fulfill the usual eligibility requirements for an OCI card. These include being eligible to hold a foreign passport, being physically present in India for at least 182 days in the past 5 years, and being able to prove your identity and immigration status in India.

However, if you are a citizen of a country that is not listed on the OCI exempt countries list, then you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be a citizen of India.
• You must have a valid passport.
• You must have a valid U.S. visa.
• You must be living in the United States.
• You must have a residence in the United States.
• You must have been in the United States for at least 182 days in the last 12 months.

Documents Required for OCI Card Application

The following documents are required for an OCI card application:

1. Proof of Indian Citizenship – You will need to provide a copy of your Indian passport and/or Certificate of Indian Citizenship as proof of Indian citizenship.
2. Proof of Residence in the US – You will need to provide a copy of your current visa, I-94 form, or green card as proof of residence in the US.
3. Passport-size Photographs – You will need to provide two passport-size photographs taken within the past six months.
4. Proof of Relationship with an Indian National – If you are applying for an OCI card as the dependent child or spouse of an Indian national, you will need to provide a copy of your parent or spouse’s Indian passport and/or Certificate of Indian Citizenship.

Steps to Complete the OCI Application Form

Once you have gathered the required documents and checked them against the OCI checklist, it’s time to complete the application form. The form can be done online or printed and mailed in – just make sure to follow the instructions carefully as incorrect forms may be rejected or require additional processing time.

• First, you’ll need to fill out your personal information, including passport details and contact information. 
• Then, you’ll provide the details of your family members, including birth certificates and other relevant documentation. 
• Lastly, you’ll need to include any existing Indian visas or passports that you may have. Once all of this is complete, you can submit your form for review.

What to Do After Submission of the Application

• After submitting your OCI card application, you must wait for it to be approved.
• In most cases, this can take up to 8 weeks, and it may take longer depending on your location and the time of year.
• During this time, you will be able to track the status of your application via the US Embassy or Consulate’s online portal.
• Local immigration authorities may also contact you for additional documents or an interview if necessary.
• Once your application has been approved, you will receive an email with a link to pick up your OCI card in person.

FAQs on Document Requirements for OCI Card Application in the US

There are a few frequently asked questions about the document requirements for OCI card application in the US. 

First, you must provide proof of Indian ancestry from both of your parents. A birth certificate, passport, or other proof of Indian citizenship could be used.

You’ll also need to show proof of your US residency, such as a green card or a valid visa. You must also provide proof of your financial situation in the United States, such as bank statements or tax returns.

Finally, you must submit supporting documentation demonstrating why you intend to apply for an OCI card. After you have submitted and approved all of the required documents, you can apply for an OCI card online through the US State Department website.

If you’re looking to apply for an OCI card in the US, you’ll need to provide a range of documents to prove your eligibility. Make sure you have all the required documents before you start your application, and contact the US embassy or consulate if you have any questions.

In addition, please ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for an OCI card. The requirements are listed on the Indian Consulate website. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Indian Consulate for assistance.