FAQs
OCI CARD FAQs
What is an OCI card?
OCI CARD – GENERAL FAQs
An OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is a lifelong visa that allows foreign citizens of Indian origin to live, travel, and work in India without needing a visa.
Who is eligible for an OCI card?
People of Indian origin (including former Indian citizens, children, or grandchildren), as well as foreign spouses of Indian citizens, are eligible. Marriage must be 2+ years old.
Can I apply for an OCI card if I was born outside India?
Yes — as long as your parents or grandparents were Indian citizens, you may be eligible.
Can I apply if I don’t have my old Indian passport?
Yes, we can still help you. Other supporting documents can be used in place of your old passport.
What are the benefits of an OCI card?
Visa-free entry to India, no need to register with police, ability to buy property, access to education and jobs in India, and easier consular support.
Is an OCI card a dual citizenship?
No. India does not allow dual citizenship. OCI is a form of permanent residency for eligible foreign nationals.
Do I have to give up my current citizenship to apply?
No. OCI is available to foreign nationals — you retain your UK or other citizenship.
RENEWAL & REISSUE FAQs
Do I need to renew my OCI card after changing my passport?
Yes, if your passport details have changed, renewal is mandatory.
Can I renew an OCI card online from the UK?
Yes you can. However if you have received a new passport after passing the age of 20, you will need to visit the embassy in person.
Do I need to renew the OCI card for my child every time their passport changes?
Yes. Minors must reissue their OCI card with every passport change until age 20.
LOST OR DAMAGED OCI FAQs
Apply for a reissue with a police report or declaration. We’ll guide you through the full replacement process. You can apply for an evisa in the meantime if you would like to travel to India, we can help with this.
What should I do if I lose my OCI card?
Can I still travel to India without my OCI card?
No — you will need to apply for an eVisa or complete the OCI replacement first.
What if my OCI card is damaged but not lost?
You still need to reapply. Damaged cards are not valid for travel and must be replaced.
MINOR OCI APPLICANT FAQs
Can minors apply for an OCI card?
Yes. Children of Indian origin can apply for an OCI card. We help with child-specific documents and form completion.
What documents are needed for a child’s OCI card?
Typically: child’s birth certificate, parents’ passports, proof of Indian origin, and photos. We’ll give you a full checklist.
Does both parents' consent need to be given for a minor’s OCI application?
Yes. Both parents must sign the declaration unless one has sole custody (legal proof required).
Does a child’s OCI need reissuing with every new passport?
Yes — until the child turns 20, OCI must be reissued every time the passport is updated.
INDIAN EVISA FAQs
What is an Indian eVisa?
It’s an electronic travel visa issued by the Indian Government, valid for tourism, business, or medical visits. It’s delivered via email — no embassy visit needed.
Who can apply for an eVisa to India from the UK?
Any UK citizen or resident with a valid passport and travel plans can apply. We also assist other nationalities.
How long does it take to get an Indian eVisa?
Typically 24-72 hours.
Can I apply for an urgent Indian eVisa?
Yes. We offer urgent Indian visa services with 24-48 hour turnaround in many cases.
Do I need a printed copy of the eVisa when I travel?
Yes — while digital copies are accepted, a printout is strongly recommended by immigration.
OCI Service FAQs
Can I apply for OCI or eVisa from anywhere in the UK?
Yes. We assist clients nationwide — including London, Birmingham, Leicester, Manchester, Glasgow, and more.
Do you help people outside the UK?
We offer eVisa services globally. OCI and passport services are only available to UK residents.
Can I speak to someone before I start my application?
Yes. We offer free consultations via phone, WhatsApp, or live chat.
Do you handle VFS appointments too?
Yes. We book VFS appointments and help prepare all documents required for submission.
APPLICATION PROCESS FAQs
How do I apply for an OCI card from the UK?
The process can be complex and time-consuming — that’s where we come in. Simply contact us, and we’ll handle the entire process for you — from document checks to embassy submission.
Can you help me apply for an OCI card?
Yes. At OCI Gateway, we handle the full process — reviewing your documents, completing forms, and booking appointments. You just follow our lead.
What’s the first step to apply for an OCI card?
Start by contacting us through WhatsApp, phone, or our online form. We’ll review your eligibility and get your application started.
Where do I submit my OCI application?
Applications are submitted at VFS centres in the UK (e.g., London, Birmingham, Manchester). We guide you on booking and preparing everything needed.
How much does it cost to apply for an OCI card?
The government fee is around £200. Our service fee varies depending on the level of support you need — contact us for a quote.
What happens after I submit my OCI application?
Once submitted, your application is reviewed by the High Commission of India. If approved, you’ll receive your OCI card within 6–8 weeks.