Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)

Hi,

I applied OCI for my kid and here is the details. Though the application is processed and document received by VFS on 2nd December, i haven't received OCI card and when i called VFS they are saying the application is still under process but OCI status query saying its PROCESSED and delivered to VFS. He is supposed to travel on 9th december and in this situation what i have to do if there is NO OCI card.

Application applied - 3rd November 2021
Application acknowledged - 5th November
Application processed - 30th November
OCI priniting - 30th November
Despatched from Delhi and received in London - 2nd December
OCI delivery to applicant - STILL WAITING

Can someone let me know how to approach VFS and get the card in person if needed.

Hi Everyone,

This is my experience of submitting my OCI application at VFS Belfast. I am from Birmingham Jurisdiction but because of lack of appointments I traveled to VFS Belfast to submit. Overall the experience was very good. The VFS people there are very helpful and they have not refused any application even with mistakes on them. They were giving opportunity to everyone to correct and submit same day. I was submitting 4 applications for my family and I traveled alone. There were no mistakes in 3 applications and uploads were fine as well. However, my application had an error (I didn't write my parents name exactly as it appeared on my cancelled Indian passport). I was told to re apply and book another appointment but when i requested they asked me to go out to a cafe correct my application (by re-submitting online and uploading all documents again) and come back. They waited till very end (2:30 PM) when all other applications were done and then took my application. The lady was working alone there and she had to take so many applications of OCI, visa and passport service. She didn't take any break since 8:30 AM till very last application which was mine.

Following are my learning from my application hope it helps anyone:

- Fill application correctly (fill it exactly as it shows on your passports or supporting documents)
- The declaration must be signed.
- Upload all documents online. They check the uploads. Print copy of all document and self attest them.
- I uploaded in current passport (British passport,naturalization certificate and driving license), Indian origin proof (Surrender certificate, cancelled passport), work letter (letter from employer, wage slip), Marriage certificate and spouse passport copy.
- For minors application all the documents as stated above except work letter. I also uploaded in relationship category (UK full birth certificate, parents passports and parents marriage certificate).
- For minor application copies should be self attested by both parents.
- Carry all the originals with you. They usually take, naturalization certificate, surrender certificate and cancelled Indian passport.
- Take correct photos. It needs to be same which is uploaded online and must be 2"*2". I have seen people turning up with UK passport photos and they were asked to go out and take another picture.
- They will take self addressed royal mail envelope but will warn against loss or damage.
- Double check name and passport number on receipt.
- Sign the declaration in part B. Parent need to sign for minors.
- Carry authority letter if you are submitting on behalf of your wife/husband.

Hope this helps someone.

Thanks
Jayesh

Hi,

I applied OCI for my kid and here is the details. Though the application is processed and document received by VFS on 2nd December, i haven't received OCI card and when i called VFS they are saying the application is still under process but OCI status query saying its PROCESSED and delivered to VFS. He is supposed to travel on 9th december and in this situation what i have to do if there is NO OCI card.

Application applied - 3rd November 2021
Application acknowledged - 5th November
Application processed - 30th November
OCI priniting - 30th November
Despatched from Delhi and received in London - 2nd December
OCI delivery to applicant - STILL WAITING

Can someone let me know how to approach VFS and get the card in person if needed.

My experience on Minor OCI applications

Family status:
1) Father: British citizen with an OCI
2) Mother: Indian Passport with ILR
3) Child (1.5 years): British Citizen my birth

Documents uploaded and Physical documents submitted:
1) Child's passport
2) Child's birth certificate
3) Father's passport
4) Father's OCI
5) Father driving license (Address proof)
6) Father's utility for a month (Address proof)
7) Mother's passport (Front and Back)
Mother's ILR
9) Marriage certificate (Indian)

Considerations while filling the form online:

1) Photos and thumb signature
- Based on previous experience I prefer to take photos from experts. Thus i have used Snappy Snaps.
- Although VFS is lineant with photos for minors
2) Declaration
- No need to take thumb impression for the child.
- You as parents, both mother and father to sign the section for minor applicants.
- Many people in this forum have confused to take the thumb impression of the child on the form. But its not required.
3) Documents uploaded (first pass before I visited the VFS)
- Child's passport
- Child's birth certificate
- Father's OCI
- Marriage certificate
As for the above documents, there is a clearly mention category for each.


VIsit to VFS Goswell:

1) Appointment at 9.30, a token was provided
2) I was called after 1.30 hrs. Keep 2-3hrs with you for appointment
3) At the entrace they give you self undertaking document
3) VFS lady was nice, looked all the documents
4) She checked physical documents, signatures and validated with whats uploaded on the system. Lady asked to upload the other remaining documents under any category. She said it doesnt matter which category you use to upload the document. And ask to upload the document before the end of the day.

Happy to answer any questions

My experience on Minor OCI applications

Family status:
1) Father: British citizen with an OCI
2) Mother: Indian Passport with ILR
3) Child (1.5 years): British Citizen my birth

Documents uploaded and Physical documents submitted:
1) Child's passport
2) Child's birth certificate
3) Father's passport
4) Father's OCI
5) Father driving license (Address proof)
6) Father's utility for a month (Address proof)
7) Mother's passport (Front and Back)
Mother's ILR
9) Marriage certificate (Indian)

Considerations while filling the form online:

1) Photos and thumb signature
- Based on previous experience I prefer to take photos from experts. Thus i have used Snappy Snaps.
- Although VFS is lineant with photos for minors
2) Declaration
- No need to take thumb impression for the child.
- You as parents, both mother and father to sign the section for minor applicants.
- Many people in this forum have confused to take the thumb impression of the child on the form. But its not required.
3) Documents uploaded (first pass before I visited the VFS)
- Child's passport
- Child's birth certificate
- Father's OCI
- Marriage certificate
As for the above documents, there is a clearly mention category for each.


VIsit to VFS Goswell:

1) Appointment at 9.30, a token was provided
2) I was called after 1.30 hrs. Keep 2-3hrs with you for appointment
3) At the entrace they give you self undertaking document
3) VFS lady was nice, looked all the documents
4) She checked physical documents, signatures and validated with whats uploaded on the system. Lady asked to upload the other remaining documents under any category. She said it doesnt matter which category you use to upload the document. And ask to upload the document before the end of the day.

Happy to answer any questions

My experience on Minor OCI applications

Family status:
1) Father: British citizen with an OCI
2) Mother: Indian Passport with ILR
3) Child (1.5 years): British Citizen my birth

Documents uploaded and Physical documents submitted:
1) Child's passport
2) Child's birth certificate
3) Father's passport
4) Father's OCI
5) Father driving license (Address proof)
6) Father's utility for a month (Address proof)
7) Mother's passport (Front and Back)
Mother's ILR
9) Marriage certificate (Indian)

Considerations while filling the form online:

1) Photos and thumb signature
- Based on previous experience I prefer to take photos from experts. Thus i have used Snappy Snaps.
- Although VFS is lineant with photos for minors
2) Declaration
- No need to take thumb impression for the child.
- You as parents, both mother and father to sign the section for minor applicants.
- Many people in this forum have confused to take the thumb impression of the child on the form. But its not required.
3) Documents uploaded (first pass before I visited the VFS)
- Child's passport
- Child's birth certificate
- Father's OCI
- Marriage certificate
As for the above documents, there is a clearly mention category for each.


VIsit to VFS Goswell:

1) Appointment at 9.30, a token was provided
2) I was called after 1.30 hrs. Keep 2-3hrs with you for appointment
3) At the entrace they give you self undertaking document
3) VFS lady was nice, looked all the documents
4) She checked physical documents, signatures and validated with whats uploaded on the system. Lady asked to upload the other remaining documents under any category. She said it doesnt matter which category you use to upload the document. And ask to upload the document before the end of the day.

Happy to answer any questions

gsram369 wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 07, 2021 11:15 am

Hi,

I applied OCI for my kid and here is the details. Though the application is processed and document received by VFS on 2nd December, i haven't received OCI card and when i called VFS they are saying the application is still under process but OCI status query saying its PROCESSED and delivered to VFS. He is supposed to travel on 9th december and in this situation what i have to do if there is NO OCI card.

Application applied - 3rd November 2021
Application acknowledged - 5th November
Application processed - 30th November
OCI priniting - 30th November
Despatched from Delhi and received in London - 2nd December
OCI delivery to applicant - STILL WAITING

Can someone let me know how to approach VFS and get the card in person if needed.

Did you manage to get the OCI Card? I applied and received the documentes in London same timeline as yours but still haven't received anything

julie11 wrote: ↑

Wed Dec 08, 2021 5:28 pm

gsram369 wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 07, 2021 11:15 am

Hi,

I applied OCI for my kid and here is the details. Though the application is processed and document received by VFS on 2nd December, i haven't received OCI card and when i called VFS they are saying the application is still under process but OCI status query saying its PROCESSED and delivered to VFS. He is supposed to travel on 9th december and in this situation what i have to do if there is NO OCI card.

Application applied - 3rd November 2021
Application acknowledged - 5th November
Application processed - 30th November
OCI priniting - 30th November
Despatched from Delhi and received in London - 2nd December
OCI delivery to applicant - STILL WAITING

Can someone let me know how to approach VFS and get the card in person if needed.

Did you manage to get the OCI Card? I applied and received the documentes in London same timeline as yours but still haven't received anything

Hi Julie, OCI department london closed due to covid positive detected in employees, hence our OCI cards are delayed.

I approached HCI, VFS through call, email and twitter since we planned to travel india today.Unfortunately due to no response from them have to cancel.

Please let me know when you receive your card, i'll do the same.

Thanks for letting me know and Sorry you had to cancel . Yeah I have tried to call/email hci london but no response. VFS office said they haven't received anything yet.

gsram369 wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 07, 2021 10:23 am

Hi,

I applied OCI for my kid and here is the details. Though the application is processed and document received by VFS on 2nd December, i haven't received OCI card and when i called VFS they are saying the application is still under process but OCI status query saying its PROCESSED and delivered to VFS. He is supposed to travel on 9th december and in this situation what i have to do if there is NO OCI card.

Application applied - 3rd November 2021
Application acknowledged - 5th November
Application processed - 30th November
OCI priniting - 30th November
Despatched from Delhi and received in London - 2nd December
OCI delivery to applicant - STILL WAITING

Can someone let me know how to approach VFS and get the card in person if needed.

Hi, we are in same boat. Someone told me they are looking to open office on Monday. hopefully we should get next week.if any of you get your oci can you please post here

Hi all, we got oci today delivered to home at Bristol. This was from the batch that was recieved at HCI on 2nd Dec.

Ours is scheduled for delivery today

julie11 wrote: ↑

Fri Dec 10, 2021 12:42 pm

Ours is scheduled for delivery today

I received my card too.

Hello,

I have a question related to OCI application timelines. I have submitted online application on 15 May 2021. I, have submitted all the documents today and did Final submit today. There are more than 180 days between submitting first application online and submitting all the documents and final submit today. Do I have to make a new application due to more than 180 days gap, or can I use the same application?

Thanks.

Hello,

I applied for OCI update for renewed British passport for my kids on Nov 8th by uploading a photo, signature and passport copy. Status still shows "Your application has been acknowledged by competent authorities. It is under consideration."

Has anyone got this approved recently? How long did it take? I have my flights booked for the weekend

Thanks in advance

ashtrick wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 5:49 pm

Hello,

I applied for OCI update for renewed British passport for my kids on Nov 8th by uploading a photo, signature and passport copy. Status still shows "Your application has been acknowledged by competent authorities. It is under consideration."

Has anyone got this approved recently? How long did it take? I have my flights booked for the weekend

Thanks in advance

I applied for my two kids on 10th Nov at VFS Belfast, please see below my timeline

Application date: 10th Nov
Application acknowledged: 16th Nov
OCI printed: 10th Dec
Dispatched from MEA: 14th Dec
Received at HCI London: 14th Dec

Mine was OCI application and not renewal

faridds wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 7:51 pm

Mine was OCI application and not renewal

Looks like updating record takes longer

Documents Printing Status : 15th Dec 2021

How long does it generally take for the passport to reach home? We are based in London. We also have a flight to India on Tuesday morning (21st) and are wondering if we will receive the OCI card by Saturday or Monday

Maybe this helps - New OCI application and not renewal.

Submitted : 15th November 2021 (Belfast)

OCI Status:
Date Of Acknowledgment : 24th November 2021
Registration Status at Mission : London
Documents Printing Status : Processed 15th December 2021
Dispatched From MEA (OCI ) NEW DELHI : 16th December 2021
Document received At LONDON : 16th December 2021

Delivery Courier : DX Courier Ref
Tracking Ref Status : Your tracking details have not been recognised

Hopefully the OCI will be with the couriers this Friday 17th December 2021 and delivered by Saturday the 18th December 2021 ... awaiting.

Best wishes!

R Sharma wrote: ↑

Thu Dec 16, 2021 7:48 pm

Maybe this helps - New OCI application and not renewal.

Submitted : 15th November 2021 (Belfast)

OCI Status:
Date Of Acknowledgment : 24th November 2021
Registration Status at Mission : London
Documents Printing Status : Processed 15th December 2021
Dispatched From MEA (OCI ) NEW DELHI : 16th December 2021
Document received At LONDON : 16th December 2021

Delivery Courier : DX Courier Ref
Tracking Ref Status : Your tracking details have not been recognised

Hopefully the OCI will be with the couriers this Friday 17th December 2021 and delivered by Saturday the 18th December 2021 ... awaiting.

Best wishes!

Mine is now displaying the same status as yours as of now

kputhran wrote: ↑

Thu Dec 16, 2021 10:06 pm

R Sharma wrote: ↑

Thu Dec 16, 2021 7:48 pm

Maybe this helps - New OCI application and not renewal.

Submitted : 15th November 2021 (Belfast)

OCI Status:
Date Of Acknowledgment : 24th November 2021
Registration Status at Mission : London
Documents Printing Status : Processed 15th December 2021
Dispatched From MEA (OCI ) NEW DELHI : 16th December 2021
Document received At LONDON : 16th December 2021

Delivery Courier : DX Courier Ref
Tracking Ref Status : Your tracking details have not been recognised

Hopefully the OCI will be with the couriers this Friday 17th December 2021 and delivered by Saturday the 18th December 2021 ... awaiting.

Best wishes!

Mine is now displaying the same status as yours as of now

There hasn't been any updates on the royal mail tracking reference so far. I have 2 of them and both aren't coming up.

faridds wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 7:50 pm

ashtrick wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 5:49 pm

Hello,

I applied for OCI update for renewed British passport for my kids on Nov 8th by uploading a photo, signature and passport copy. Status still shows "Your application has been acknowledged by competent authorities. It is under consideration."

Has anyone got this approved recently? How long did it take? I have my flights booked for the weekend

Thanks in advance

I applied for my two kids on 10th Nov at VFS Belfast, please see below my timeline

Application date: 10th Nov
Application acknowledged: 16th Nov
OCI printed: 10th Dec
Dispatched from MEA: 14th Dec
Received at HCI London: 14th Dec

OCI card for both of my kids got delivered today at 1300
Done and dusted in 38 days but had to travel from Leeds to Belfast for OCI appointment, glad I travelled as I have got ticket to India in first week of Jan

faridds wrote: ↑

Sat Dec 18, 2021 2:55 pm

faridds wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 7:50 pm

ashtrick wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 5:49 pm

Hello,

I applied for OCI update for renewed British passport for my kids on Nov 8th by uploading a photo, signature and passport copy. Status still shows "Your application has been acknowledged by competent authorities. It is under consideration."

Has anyone got this approved recently? How long did it take? I have my flights booked for the weekend

Thanks in advance

I applied for my two kids on 10th Nov at VFS Belfast, please see below my timeline

Application date: 10th Nov
Application acknowledged: 16th Nov
OCI printed: 10th Dec
Dispatched from MEA: 14th Dec
Received at HCI London: 14th Dec

OCI card for both of my kids got delivered today at 1300
Done and dusted in 38 days but had to travel from Leeds to Belfast for OCI appointment, glad I travelled as I have got ticket to India in first week of Jan

That's awesome

ashtrick wrote: ↑

Tue Dec 14, 2021 5:49 pm

Hello,

I applied for OCI update for renewed British passport for my kids on Nov 8th by uploading a photo, signature and passport copy. Status still shows "Your application has been acknowledged by competent authorities. It is under consideration."

Has anyone got this approved recently? How long did it take? I have my flights booked for the weekend

Thanks in advance

Update:
Received an email saying the records are updated on 17th December.