The Bureau of Immigration has introduced a new fee structure for OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) services in India.
For fresh OCI applications, the fee is now USD 275 (or equivalent in Indian Rupees).
If you apply within India, you will need to pay Rs 15,000 via Demand Draft, payable to the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.
This system will continue until an online payment option is introduced.
Updated OCI Charges You Should Know
Here’s a simple breakdown of the latest fees:
New OCI application: $275
Reissue (details change or after age 20): $25
Lost OCI card (reissue): $100
Late passport update (after 3 months): $25
OCI renunciation: $25
If your application is rejected, $250 will be refunded, but $25 will be kept as processing fees.
For applications in India, Rs 1,400 is non-refundable as processing charges.
Important Rule: Update Passport Details on Time
OCI cardholders must update their passport details within 3 months of getting a new passport.
If you miss this deadline, a late fee will apply.
Keeping your details updated helps avoid penalties and delays in services.
Documents Required for OCI Application
To apply for an OCI card, you need to submit a few key documents:
Proof of your current citizenship (like a passport)
Proof of Indian origin (self, parents, or grandparents)
Documents like birth certificates, school records, or land records
Proof of relationship (if applying based on parents/grandparents)
Demand Draft for the application fee
Copy of PIO card (if applicable)
These documents help verify your eligibility for OCI status.
Where to Submit Your Application
If you are applying from outside India, send your application to the Indian Mission or Embassy of your country of residence.
If you are in India, you can submit your application to the nearest FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and others.
Applications must be sent via Speed Post or Registered Post only—courier services are not accepted.
Important Note for Applicants
This information is for general guidance only.
OCI rules and fees can change over time, so it’s always best to check the latest updates from official government sources before applying.
Overall, the revised OCI fee structure brings clarity on costs, but applicants should stay updated and ensure all documents and timelines are followed carefully.
