Overseas Citizenship of India Explained: A Complete Overview

Not everyone is eligible to apply for the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card. The Government of India has set clear criteria focused on Indian origin and familial ties. Here's a detailed breakdown of who can apply:

You are Eligible for OCI if you:

1. Were a citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950.
2. Belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947 (such as Sikkim, Goa, or Pondicherry).
3. Are a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of someone who was a citizen of India.
4. Are a minor child of: An Indian citizen, or An OCI cardholder.
5. Are the spouse of an Indian citizen or an existing OCI cardholder, provided that: The marriage has been registered and has lasted for at least two continuous years.

Note: In the case of a spouse-based OCI application, divorce or death of the Indian spouse invalidates the OCI status.

You are NOT eligible for OCI if:

1. You, your parents, or grandparents have ever been a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh.
2. You do not have documented proof of your Indian ancestry.
3. You have criminal records or your presence in India is deemed a threat to national security.

Special Cases & Clarifications:

1. Foreign-born children of Indian citizens may apply, but both parents' nationality and legal status are considered.
2. Adopted children are only eligible if the adoption complies with Indian legal standards.
3. A person who was once a citizen of India and later renounced it may still be eligible, depending on documentation.

To apply for the OCI card, applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents that prove identity, Indian origin, and eligibility. The specific requirements can vary slightly depending on the applicant's category — such as adult, minor, or spouse of an Indian citizen — but the general documentation framework is outlined below:

For Adult Applicants (Indian Origin)

1. Current Foreign Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
2. Proof of Indian Origin, such as:
   1. A copy of an old Indian passport (self or ancestor)
   2. Birth certificate of self/parent/grandparent
   3. Domicile or nativity certificate issued by a competent Indian authority
3. Renunciation Certificate (if previously held Indian citizenship and renounced it)
4. Proof of Relationship (if applying based on parent/grandparent’s Indian origin)
5. Address Proof (current residence)
6. Photograph (as per OCI specifications)
7. Applicant’s Signature

For Minor Applicants

1. Foreign Passport of the Child
2. Birth Certificate, showing parent names
3. Indian Passports or OCI Cards of Parents (or proof of Indian origin)
4. Parental Consent Letter (both parents must sign)
5. Marriage Certificate of Parents (if applicable)
6. Photographs of the Minor
7. Signatures or Thumb Impressions of the child (for those aged 5 or above)

 For Spouses of Indian Citizens / OCI Cardholders

1. Marriage Certificate
2. Passport & OCI/Indian Passport of Spouse
3. Proof of 2+ Years of Marriage Duration
4. Joint Photograph of Applicant and Spouse
5. A signed declaration affirming ongoing marital relationship
6. Standard personal documents (passport, proof of residence, photo)

Photo and Signature Guidelines