How to Renew Your OCI Card in the UK (2025 Guide)
If you’re a UK resident of Indian origin and hold an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest renewal and re-issue rules. Whether you’ve recently received a new passport or turned 20, this guide will help you understand when and how to renew your OCI card — and how OCI Gateway can handle the entire process for you.
When Do You Need to Renew or Re-Issue Your OCI Card?
Understanding whether you need a renewal (online update) or a re-issue (new card at VFS) is key.
OCI Card Renewal (Online Update)
You must renew your OCI card every time you get a new passport, no matter your age.
This process can be done completely online
No need to visit VFS
Documents required:
Copy of new passport
Recent photo (with strict formatting)
Digital signature or thumb impression
➡️ OCI Gateway takes care of this for you — including formatting and uploading your documents correctly.
OCI Card Re-Issue (After Age 20)
Once you receive your first new passport after turning 20, the Indian High Commission requires a full re-issue of your OCI card.
You’ll need to attend an appointment at VFS Global
Additional documents are required
Required for Re-Issue:
New passport
Old passport (linked to your current OCI)
OCI card (front and back copy)
Recent passport photo
Digital signature
UK address proof (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
Proof of employment or student status
Marriage or divorce certificate (if applicable)
Step-by-Step: How the OCI Renewal Process Works
At OCI Gateway, we make the process fast, accurate, and stress-free.
Contact Our Team
Reach out via phone, email, or WhatsApp. We’ll check whether you need an online update or a re-issue.Send Your Documents
Upload or email your documents securely. We’ll check and format them to embassy standards.We Submit Your Application
Our experts complete the online forms and handle everything for you. For re-issue cases, we help prepare your VFS checklist.Receive Confirmation and Updates
We track progress and keep you updated at every stage. You’ll know exactly when your OCI is ready.
How Long Does OCI Renewal Take?
Online renewal: Usually processed within 40 working days
Re-issue (VFS route): Can take 4–6 weeks, depending on processing times
We guide you through every step — and assist with urgent travel requests if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Submitting incorrect photo or signature formats
❌ Missing required documents for re-issue
❌ Forgetting that renewal is needed every time you get a new passport
➡️ Avoid delays and rejections — let our UK-based team handle it professionally.
Why Choose OCI Gateway?
✅ Fast, hassle-free service from experts in UK–India travel documentation
✅ Trusted by hundreds of families across the UK
✅ WhatsApp, email and phone support
✅ Affordable pricing and 100% accuracy guarantee
✅ We know VFS rules inside out
Final Checklist
✔ Got a new passport? You must renew your OCI.
✔ Over 20 and received your first adult passport? You’ll need a re-issue.
✔ Unsure what you need? Contact us — we’ll advise in minutes.
Apply Now – We’ll Handle Everything
Whether it’s a simple online update or a full re-issue after turning 20, OCI Gateway will manage the process from start to finish — so you don’t have to worry about forms, formatting, or delays.
Click here to Apply Now
Or message us on WhatsApp: 07591 967636