Documents Required for OCI Application
General Instructions for Filling the Form
- The OCI application consists of Part A, B, and C.
- Part A must be completed individually for each applicant.
- Parts B and C are common for the entire family.
- Part A must be submitted online at https://ociservices.gov.in.
- Note: Once submitted, Part A cannot be edited.
- A registration/reference number (e.g., THABI0148010) will be generated for tracking.
- The Embassy will not respond to application status inquiries over the phone.
- Minor children are not eligible if one parent does not qualify for OCI.
Documents to be Submitted (In Person)
Arrange one set in the following sequence before submission:
- Filled application form (Part A, B, and C)
- Photocopy of passport (original must be shown for verification)
- Photocopy of identity card
- Four recent photographs (size: 51 x 51 mm or 2 x 2 inches) with light blue background:
- One to be uploaded with the application form
- Two spare photos
- Photocopy of birth certificate with English translation (original required for verification)
- All documents must be self-attested
Additional Proof of Indian Origin (Any One or More):
- Photocopy of parents’/grandparents’ Indian passport (original required for verification)
- Proof of relationship with parents/grandparents (original required)
- Change of name/surname document, translated to English and attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Thailand)
- Photocopy of previous Indian passport (original required for verification)
- Photocopy of house registration or other supporting documents (with translation)
- Letter explaining Indian origin based on submitted documents
- If applying based on an existing OCI card:
- Photocopy of OCI card
- Proof of relationship (original required)
- Attested and translated birth certificate and Thai house registration
For Re-issuance After Age 50
Only the following documents are required to be uploaded on the OCI portal:
- Copy of current OCI card
- Copy of valid foreign passport
Important Notes:
- The Indian passport of the applicant or their parents/grandparents is considered the primary proof of Indian origin.
- If unavailable, submit secondary documents (e.g., house registration, domicile, revenue records) duly attested.
- Ensure no field in the form is left blank.
- Affix photographs and signatures in the correct places and include spare photos as required.
For Foreign Nationals:
Birth Certificate and Marriage Certificate must be attested by the respective embassy.
Additionally, one of the following must be submitted: bank statement, lease agreement, or internet bill.
If applying on behalf of grandparents or parents, their passport must also be submitted.
If Applying Based on Indian-Origin Spouse:
Submit the Birth Certificate, House Registration, Marriage Certificate, and Name/Surname Change Certificate—
all of which must be attested and translated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Thailand).
Proof of Indian origin of the spouse must also be submitted.
FAQs:
1. Who is eligible to apply for an OCI card?
Individuals who were Indian citizens on or after 26 January 1950, or were eligible to become Indian citizens on that date, including their children and grandchildren, may apply.
Note: Citizens or former citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh are not eligible for OCI.
2. Is a Renunciation Certificate required before applying for OCI?
Yes. If you previously held Indian citizenship, you must obtain a Renunciation or Surrender Certificate before applying for an OCI card.
3. Can foreign spouses of Indian citizens apply for OCI?
Yes. A foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder can apply, provided the marriage has been registered and has existed continuously for at least 2 years prior to the date of application.
4. Are minor children eligible for OCI?
Yes. Minor children are eligible if one or both parents are Indian citizens or OCI cardholders. A birth certificate and proof of parental citizenship must be submitted.
5. Are individuals with military background eligible for OCI?
No. Foreign nationals who are currently serving or have previously served in any foreign military force, including civilian roles in defence departments, are not eligible.
6. What are the benefits of holding an OCI card?
- Life-long, multiple-entry visa to India
- Exemption from police registration, regardless of stay duration
- Equal treatment with NRIs in educational, financial, and economic fields (except purchase of agricultural land)
- Accepted ID for PAN card, driver’s license, and bank accounts in India
7. What are the restrictions on OCI cardholders?
OCI holders cannot:
- Vote in Indian elections
- Hold public office
- Acquire agricultural or plantation property
- Be employed in Indian government services
- Travel to protected/restricted areas without special permits
- Engage in missionary work, mountaineering, or journalism without prior approval
8. What documents are required for a fresh OCI application?
Key documents include:
- Valid foreign passport
- Indian origin proof (passport/certificate of parents or grandparents)
- Renunciation certificate (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (for spouse-based applications)
- Birth certificate (for minor applicants)
Refer to the Documents Checklist for a complete list.
9. Can I apply for OCI from outside India?
Yes. You can apply at the Indian Mission/Post in your country of residence. In Thailand, applications can be submitted through Du Digital Global ICAC with a prior appointment.
10. What is the processing time for a fresh OCI application?
Processing usually takes 6 to 8 weeks, depending on document verification and clearance. Applicants are notified by email/SMS, and status can be tracked on the OCI portal.
