NOTICE


PROCESSING TIME FOR OCI APPLICATIONS

It may please be noted that currently it may take about 12 weeks for OCI applications to be processed. OCI applicants are requested to kindly check the status of their application at http://ociindia.nic.in/ociindia/OnlineOCIenquiry.jsp by using the file number communicated by the Consulate. When the last column of the status page indicates “Documents Received at Washington DC on (date indicated)", the applicants are requested to immediately send their original US Passport(s) for stamping the “U” Visa and the Indian Passport(s) (where applicable), for verification, by mail. In case the applicant is a PIO cardholder, PIO card should also be sent for cancellation. This will facilitate immediate delivery of OCI cards to the applicants.

Applicants can ascertain the status of their applications on the website. We regret that it will not be possible for us to give the status of the application on telephone. Applicants are requested to bear with us and avoid enquiry until after 12 weeks of submission of application through email.

Please do not send the original US Passport with the application.

If you are traveling in the near future and have an emergency, please apply for visa.

OCI card holders traveling to India are advised to carry the Passport containing "U" Visa sticker and OCI Card to avoid problems at Immigration check points in India. In case registered OCI has obtained a new passport, kindly ensure to carry the "Passport containing U Visa sticker", new passport and OCI Card during all visits to India. Alternatively OCI Miscellaneous Services can be availed for transfer of "U" Visa sticker to new passport. However, before applying for OCI Miscellaneous Services kindly read the instructions posted under “OCI Miscellaneous Service” particularly the processing period. Since applications are processed in the order of their receipt in the Embassy, this service cannot be expedited.

To transfer the visa to a new passport, apply for OCI Miscellaneous Services as per details on web page. OCI Miscellaneous Services have been introduced for re-issue of OCI Registration Card and ‘U’ Visa in case of new passport, loss or damage of OCI Registration Card/’U’ Visa or changes in personal particulars.

The Embassy accepts payments of fees only by Cashier's check/Money order. No personal checks are accepted.

We are constantly updating our website on consular services. Before any telephonic or email query, it is advised you patiently browse the website. After going through the website for any clarifications, please contact us by email or telephone.