Introduction
Applying for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card from the UK is one of the most common needs for Indian-origin families. The process can be confusing — multiple online uploads, strict photo/signature requirements, and the VFS appointment system often leave applicants stressed.
This guide provides the clearest, step-by-step checklist for adults and minors applying from the UK, offering the best OCI application help UK available. We focus on the exact documents and specifications required to prevent common application delays.
For personalized advice and pre-submission checks, get professional OCI support today.
Why OCI Applications Matter for UK Residents
The OCI card allows lifelong visa-free entry to India, with benefits such as residency rights, easier property ownership, and convenience for frequent family visits. For UK Indians who regularly travel for weddings, property management, or festivals, OCI is the most practical option. But the process has zero tolerance for errors, making proper preparation vital.
When to Apply for OCI from the UK
You are eligible if you meet any of the following criteria:
- You have surrendered your Indian passport after acquiring British/foreign citizenship.
- You are the child or grandchild of an eligible Indian citizen.
- You are the spouse of an Indian/OCI cardholder (with 2 years of marriage proof).
- You are an adult applying for the first time after surrender.
- You are a minor applying through parents’ Indian heritage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Prevent Them
Incorrect documentation is the number one cause of rejection or delay. Pay special attention to these details:
|
Mistake Area |
Error |
Solution |
|---|---|---|
|
Photo Specs |
Using UK-style photos (not 2×2 inch) or blurry scans. |
Use exact 2×2 inch (51x51mm) photos with a plain white background. Ensure digital files are JPEG (10–300 KB). |
|
Document Uploads |
Scans larger than 1MB or in the wrong format. |
Scan at low DPI (100–200) and ensure all supporting documents are separate PDFs under 1MB each. Photo/signature are JPEG. |
|
Surrender Cert. |
Missing the Surrender/Renunciation Certificate. |
This is mandatory for anyone who has surrendered an Indian passport. Include the original and a self-attested copy. |
|
Names/Signatures |
Not matching names across documents or mismatched signatures. |
Names on the application MUST match the current passport. Ensure signatures are consistent across the online form and hard copies. |
|
VFS Centre |
Booking the wrong VFS centre. |
Select your VFS centre based on your current residential address/jurisdiction in the UK. |
Don’t risk costly mistakes and rejection. Our OCI advisory service can pre-check your documents before submission.
Step-by-Step OCI Application (Adults)
- Current British passport (valid 6+ months).
- Surrender Certificate of old Indian passport (mandatory).
- UK address proof (utility bill, council tax, driving licence—cannot be a bank statement).
- Proof of Indian origin (e.g., old Indian passport, parent’s passport, or original birth certificate).
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
- Recent 2×2 inch colour photos (white background).
Step 2 — Complete Online Form
Go to the official OCI Services portal. Fill in all details carefully. Upload documents (≤1MB PDF/JPG) and the photo + signature. Crucially, print the complete form (Part A and Part B) once finished.
Step 3 — Book VFS Appointment
Register on VFS Global UK – OCI Services, select your jurisdiction, pay the service fees, and download your appointment letter.
Step 4 — Attend Appointment
Carry:
- The printed and signed OCI application form.
- All Original Documents + Self-Attested Photocopies of everything uploaded online.
- The physical 2×2 inch photos.
You will provide biometrics and submit the documents. Choose courier delivery if needed.
Step 5 — Processing & Collection
OCI applications typically take 5–6 weeks. Track status online with your File Reference Number. The OCI booklet will be couriered or collected from VFS.
👶 OCI Document Checklist for Minors & Children in the UK
The application for a minor is often rejected due to parental documentation errors. Here is the expanded checklist to avoid delays:
Mandatory Documents for a Minor’s OCI Application
|
Document |
Detail/Requirement |
Key Note for VFS |
|---|---|---|
|
Minor’s Passport |
Current foreign passport (valid 6+ months). |
Copy of photo page, last page, and any visa pages. |
|
Minor’s Birth Certificate |
Full (long version) certificate with both parents’ names clearly stated. |
Critical: Must be Apostilled (legalized) by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). |
|
Parents’ Passports |
Current passports of both mother and father. |
Self-attested copies of first and last pages. |
|
Parents’ Proof of Origin |
Copies of parents’ Surrender Certificates (if applicable) or OCI cards/Indian passports. |
This establishes the minor’s link to Indian heritage. |
|
Parents’ Marriage Certificate |
The registered certificate. |
Required to prove the link between the parents and the child’s documents. |
|
Parental Consent/Declaration |
Both parents must sign Part B of the OCI application form. |
For Divorced Parents: A court order granting custody and permission for OCI is required. |
Signature & Thumb Impression Rules for Children
|
Age |
Requirement |
Note |
|---|---|---|
|
Under 5 Years |
Left-hand Thumb Impression (Blue/Black Ink). |
This impression is uploaded online and placed on the final paper form. Parents must not sign the child’s box. |
|
5 Years and Above |
Child’s own Signature. |
If the child can write their name, they must sign the box themselves. |
💰 OCI Application Fees UK: Total Cost Breakdown
The OCI fee structure is the same for all new applications, whether for an adult or a minor/child.
|
Fee Type |
Cost (Approx.) |
Paid To |
|---|---|---|
|
New OCI Application Fee |
£201 |
High Commission of India |
|
VFS Service Fee |
£7.44 + VAT |
VFS Global |
|
VFS Courier (Optional) |
~£15 |
VFS Global |
|
Total Mandatory Fee |
£208.44 + VAT |
VFS/HCI |
Important Note: The fees listed here are for a fresh OCI application. Miscellaneous services (like transferring OCI to a new passport) have different fee structures.
Final Checklist (Adults & Minors)
Use this list at your VFS appointment. If you need a second pair of expert eyes, claim your OCI Support Package now.
|
Document |
Status (Y/N) |
|---|---|
|
Printed & signed OCI Form (Part A & B) | |
|
VFS Appointment Confirmation | |
|
Current Foreign Passport (Original + Copy) | |
|
OCI Compliant Photos (2×2 inch) | |
|
Surrender Certificate (Adults) | |
|
Minor’s Full Birth Certificate (Apostilled) | |
|
Parents’ Passports & OCI/Indian Origin Proof | |
|
Parents’ Marriage Certificate | |
|
UK Address Proof | |
|
All uploaded document photocopies (Self-attested) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help?
DiuMitra offers friendly, step-by-step advisory support. We review documents, check your form, and guide families on minors, spouses, and surrender rules.
⚠️ Disclaimer: All services are offered on an advisory basis only. We do not act as legal, immigration, or financial representatives, and we do not guarantee outcomes. Applications and submissions remain the responsibility of the individual.
