Quick Guide to OCI Card Renewal After Receiving a New US Passport
While residing outside India, your OCI card becomes an essential document, especially when traveling to India. An OCI card works alongside your passport–so what happens when you get a new one? A new passport means your OCI card needs an update—ignoring it could cause travel disruptions. Today, FLyopedia will provide you with the simple process of renewing your OCI card after receiving a new US passport. Together, we can make sure your renewal goes easily and without interruption. Also, we specialize in providing cheap flight tickets from USA to India to make your transit more pocket friendly.
What is an OCI CARD?
An Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card is a long period visa that lets foreign people of Indian origin travel, live, and invest in India without any restrictions. On top of that, these cards come with extra benefits:
- Permanent Visa for India – No need to apply for a standard visa every time you travel to India.
- No Need for FRRO Registration – There is no need to register for long-term stays.
- Eligibility to Vote in Indian Election – Make your vote count in India.
- Legal Property Rights – You can purchase and own property in India.
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Does Your OCI Need an Update with a New Passport?
Your OCI card remains valid only when linked to the passport it was issued with. If you receive a new passport, you must update your OCI information. Ignoring this update could prevent you from traveling with your OCI card.
When Should You Renew Your OCI Card?
The Indian government has simple rules for keeping your OCI card valid:-
- New Passport Issued – When you acquire a new passport, be sure you update your OCI card.
- Age-Based Updates – OCI card renewal is necessary for minors (under the age of 20) and seniors (over the age of 50) when they get a new passport. By doing this, biometric information and appearance records are kept updated.
- Corrections & Changes – If your existing OCI card has errors (like a misspelled name), apply for a renewal.
Simple Steps to Renewing Your OCI Card
The renewal procedure is simple and easy and can be performed online. Follow these steps:
Collect Your Papers
Make sure you have these:
Scanned copies of old as well as new passports
Scanned copies of both sides of your existing OCI cards
Passport-size photos (as per specifications)
Proof of Indian origin (if required)
Evidence of an existing US address (bank account statement or utility bill etc.)
Apply Online
- Visit the OCI Services Portal– https://ociservices.gov.in.
- Create an account or Log in
- Select ‘Renew OCI Card’ or ‘Change of Passport’ as applicable.
- Fill out the needed information and submit your scanned papers.
Pay the Renewal Fee
The fee varies based on location and processing speed. Deposit the amount online via the platform.
Submit Your Application
Once all details are verified, submit your application online. Your request will move forward for review and approval.
Visit the Indian Embassy (If Required)
In some cases, you may be asked to visit the nearest Indian Embassy for verification or biometric updates.
Track Your Application
Monitor the status through your OCI portal account. Emails with updates will be issued regularly.
Receive Your Renewed OCI Card
Once approved, you will receive your updated OCI card reflecting your new passport details. The process typically takes 8-10 weeks. Until then, you can use your existing OCI card along with your new passport for travel.
Bottom Lines
Renewing your OCI card is essential to avoid travel complications. Start the procedure early to avoid the stress of the last minute. Keep abreast of any changes in OCI policies so that future renewals go smoothly. Also, if you want to travel to India on a budget, Grab last minute flights to India from USA with Flyopedia.
Also Read:- Heartland Visa: New Quick Way To Green Card For The US If You’re A Skilled Immigrant
