How to Track Your OCI Application (2024)

If you have a lot of questions about OCI tracking, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will try to answer the main questions you might have on the topic, thus eliminating any traces of doubt. Let’s get started!

OCI Card Processing Time

OCI applications generally take 8-10 weeks to process. The processing of an OCI card involves a number of steps and can be delayed because of incomplete applications — so be sure to send a complete application.

What Is OCI Tracking?

When it comes to OCI tracking, you should know it allows you to track down your application for OCI. In this way, you can easily check the status of your application so that you know where you stand. Evidently, this is great news for applicants.

How to Track Your OCI Application Status

The next question that naturally follows is how do you track your OCI application? In order to see the current status of your OCI application, an option would be going to the official government of India website – namely https://passport.gov.in/oci/. After accessing this page, you should follow the information provided there and pick the status inquiry alternative.

After entering the necessary information – namely your name, passport number, including the date of acknowledgment, you can submit and find out what you need.

Top OCI Trackers

Now we should focus on some of the top OCI trackers. As you might expect, there are always several options to choose from. We’ll talk about some of the most reliable ones.

Cox & Kings

For one thing, there is Cox and Kings, which makes OCI tracking as effortless as it can get. You have numerous options to choose from, depending on what you need. Of course, prior to finding out what interests you, you need to use the option my account present on the website. Still, to access it, you have to supply a combination of passport number, web reference number, and date of birth.

Once you successfully log into your account, you can track the status of your application, view other applicant and service details. In addition to that, you may choose to download and print forms and documents, or even make payments. As you can see, the entire process is notably simplified for you.

Immihelp

The second option that is well worth of your attention would be Immihelp tracker. In order to use this tracking service, you should register on the website, which is easy and to the point. Once you do that, you can easily track your OCI status. Simple and easy!

OCI Tracking for NRI

Now, we should focus on a popular topic, namely getting OCI for NRI. We’ve already pointed out what OCI stands for. Meanwhile, you should note that NRI stands for non-resident Indian, also referred to as Indian Diaspora. An NRI is a person of Indian birth or descent, who lives in a different country. In line with the Ministry of External Affairs, there are roughly 30.8 million Indian Diasporas living outside of the Republic of India.

In order to apply and use an OCI, as an applicant, you need to be a citizen of another country. Alternatively, you should have a passport from another country – with the exception of Bangladesh and Pakistan. Prior to February 2015, holders of an OCI card had to carry a passport with a lifetime visa whenever they traveled to India.

However, this requirement has no longer been applicable since 2015. At the moment, as an OCI card holder, you don’t need a visa sticker passport. Granted that you have the OCI card and a current valid foreign passport, you can travel to and from India freely.

OCI Tracking FAQ

In this section, we will move our attention to some frequently asked questions when it comes to OCI tracking. The OCI process can be quite stressful especially when you know nothing about it. This is why we advise you to have a look at the articles you can find on our website. You can find answers regarding the OCI process, and other important stuff such as NRI tax in India and the list may go on.

What Is the Processing Time for a New OCI Card?

It’s critical that the information you submit is correct. Otherwise, the entire process and the waiting time will be notably prolonged. This is why we advise you to double-check the information before submitting it. At the same time, it’s worth noting that the processing time can vary depending on several aspects.

With that in mind, with the new OCI card, the processing time varies on the consulate where you apply. That is to say, in Atlanta, it can take up to 45 business days. Meanwhile, in Chicago and Huston, the processing time may last between 45 and 60 business days. In San Francisco, the processing time is of 60 days. As for Washington DC, it can take between 60 and 80 business days. The shortest processing time is in New York – where it lasts between 25 and 35 business days.

Who Is Eligible for an OCI Card?

Here are the individuals who are eligible for an OCI card:

• The person who had Indian citizenship on or after the 26th of January 1950.
• The person who met the eligibility criteria for Indian citizenship on the 26th of January 1950.
• The person belonging to a territory that was a part of India after the 15th of August, 1947.
• The minor child of a person that addresses the conditions outlined above.
• The minor child whose parents have Indian citizenship or who only has one Indian parent.
• The person who is married to a citizen of India.
• The person who is married to an Overseas Citizen of India card holder.
• In order to apply as a spouse, you need to have been married for at least two years prior to submitting the application.

What Are the Benefits of an OCI Card?

Before applying for an OCI card, you might wonder whether you should go for it or not. Are there really any sizeable benefits worth noting? Presumably, the first benefit would be that as a holder of an Overseas Citizenship of India, you may get a multiple-entry, multiple-purpose lifelong visa so that you can go to India whenever you want.

At the same time, you don’t have to worry about any exemptions from foreigner registration requirements when it comes to the length of your stay. You also get parity with NRIs in economic, financial and educational fields, with the exception of acquiring plantation or agricultural properties.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is an OCI Application?

An OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) application is a process for people of Indian origin to apply for a status that allows them visa-free travel to India and other benefits. It’s available to certain individuals who have Indian heritage or were former Indian citizens.

How Can I Track My OCI Application?

You can track your OCI application online through the official website of the Indian consulate or embassy where you submitted your application. You’ll need your application reference number and passport number.

What Information Do I Need to Track My OCI Application?

To track your OCI application, you will need the acknowledgement number provided after submitting your application and your passport number.

How Long Does It Take to Process an OCI Application?

The processing time for an OCI application can vary, typically taking several weeks to a few months. The time frame can be affected by application volume and individual circ*mstances.

Can I Expedite My OCI Application?

Generally, OCI applications cannot be expedited. They are processed in the order they are received, and applicants are advised to apply well in advance of any planned travel.

What Should I Do If There Are Delays in My OCI Application Processing?

If you experience delays, first check your application status online. If the delay seems unusual, contact the consulate or embassy where you submitted your application for further information.

What Are the Reasons for a Delay in OCI Application Processing?

Delays in OCI application processing can be due to incomplete applications, errors in the application, high volume of applications, or additional background checks.

Is There a Way to Contact the Consulate for OCI Application Updates?

Yes, you can contact the consulate or embassy directly through their official contact information, typically available on their website, for updates on your OCI application.

Can I Travel to India While My OCI Application is Being Processed?

Traveling to India while your OCI application is being processed is possible, but you will need a valid visa for your trip as the OCI status itself grants visa-free travel.

What Happens After My OCI Application is Approved?

After your OCI application is approved, you will receive an OCI card, which you should carry along with your current passport when traveling to India.