Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a permanent visa service offered to overseas citizens of Indian origin. Most Indian families settled abroad wonder if their minor children are eligible for an OCI card. This depends on a number of considerations, such as the parents' citizenship and legal guidelines introduced by the Government of India.
Eligibility of Minor Children for OCI
Minor children may apply for an OCI card in the following situations:
- If both parents are Indian nationals or were Indian nationals at the time of birth of their child, the child is entitled to OCI.
- If one parent is an OCI card holder, the child can apply for OCI on the basis of their parent's status.
- Children born outside India to Indian-origin parents who subsequently obtain foreign citizenship are also eligible, as long as they comply with the OCI guidelines.
- Children born to foreign nationals who do not have Indian ancestry are not eligible for OCI, even in cases where they are adopted by parents with Indian origins.
However, children born to foreign nationals who do not have Indian ancestry are not eligible for OCI, even if they are adopted by parents who are of Indian origin. If the parents are or were citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh, the child is not eligible for OCI.
