The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card offers lifelong visa-free travel and several privileges to people of Indian origin who have acquired foreign citizenship. If you’re an eligible applicant living in New South Wales, Queensland, or the Northern Territory, the Consulate General of India (CGI), Sydney is your go-to authority for applying. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step.
Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Document Type | OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) Card |
| Eligible Applicants | Former Indian citizens and their descendants |
| Jurisdiction | New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory |
| Application Platform | Government of India OCI Portal + VFS Global |
| Submission Mode | Postal or In-person (depending on case) |
| Processing Authority | Consulate General of India, Sydney |
| Processing Time | 6–8 weeks (approximate) |
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You can apply for an OCI card if you fall into any of the following categories:
- Former Indian citizen who has acquired foreign nationality
- Child or grandchild of an Indian citizen
- Spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder (if married for at least 2 years)
- Minor child of eligible parents
Note: Foreign military personnel and those with Pakistani or Bangladeshi origin are not eligible.
Step 2: Register on the OCI Online Portal
Begin your application at the official Government of India portal:
- Visit https://ociservices.gov.in
- Select “OCI Registration (Fresh Application)”
- Complete the Part-A and Part-B forms online
- Upload a digital photo and a scanned signature
- Save and print the final application form (with barcode)
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment with VFS Global
After completing the online form, proceed to VFS Global:
- Go to https://services.vfsglobal.com/aus/en/ind
- Choose “OCI Services” under CGI Sydney
- Select your preferred method: Postal submission or In-person appointment
- Download the courier label or appointment confirmation
Step 4: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and self-attested.
Mandatory Documents
- Printed OCI application form with barcode
- Current passport (original and copy)
- Proof of Australian residency (visa, PR, or citizenship certificate)
- Old Indian passport or surrender certificate (if applicable)
- Birth certificate (for minors or lineage proof)
- Photographs (2 copies, 2”x2”, white background)
- Parental documents (if applying for a child)
- Marriage certificate (for spouse-based OCI applications)
- Payment receipt from VFS Global
Step 5: Submit the Application
Postal Submission
Use the VFS courier label and send your document packet to their Sydney office.
In-Person Submission
Attend your scheduled appointment at the VFS center and bring your complete application set.
Step 6: Track Your Application
- Use the VFS tracking tool available on their website
- You’ll also receive email and SMS updates as your application progresses
- Once approved, the OCI card and documents will be returned to your registered address
Important Tips
- Ensure photo and signature are in the correct format (JPEG, size below 500KB)
- Keep your original documents ready in case the consulate calls for verification
- All foreign-origin documents (e.g., birth/marriage certificates) must be notarized
- Double-check your eligibility before submission to avoid delays
Contact Information
| Office | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consulate General of India, Sydney | Sydney, NSW | +61-2-6229-5300 | cgisydney.gov.in |
| VFS Global – CGI Sydney | Sydney, NSW | +61-2-8278-4525 | services.vfsglobal.com/aus/en/ind |
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to get an OCI card?
A: The average processing time is 6–8 weeks, but it can vary based on background verification.
Q: Can I apply for an OCI if I don’t have my old Indian passport?
A: Yes, but you must provide a Surrender Certificate or explain the absence through an affidavit.
Q: Do I need to travel to Sydney to submit documents?
A: Not always. Most applications can be submitted via courier, unless biometric verification is required.
Q: Is the OCI card a dual citizenship document?
A: No. India does not allow dual citizenship. The OCI card grants multiple-entry, lifelong visa and other limited rights.
Q: Can minors apply for OCI cards?
A: Yes. Applications must include birth certificates and parents’ Indian/OCI documents.
Conclusion
Applying for an OCI card through CGI Sydney is a well-structured process. With online registration, VFS support, and postal submission options, the Indian diaspora in Australia can access this long-term benefit with ease. Be meticulous with your paperwork, track your application regularly, and consult the consulate for specific cases. Once issued, your OCI card opens the door to lifelong travel and deeper connection with India.