In case you have made an application for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card and it is in the process, you can also travel to India but with a valid visa. OCI card cannot replace a visa until it has been issued in full. So, travelers are required to secure an appropriate Indian visa prior to traveling to the country.
Key Points to Remember:
1. Visa Requirement
- Until the issue of your OCI card, you will have to apply for a visa to travel to India.
- You may apply for an e-Visa, tourist visa, or entry visa, according to your intended purpose of visiting.
2. No Emergency Travel with Pending OCI
- Your application receipt for OCI cannot be used as a travel document when your OCI application is pending.
- You have to wait for your approval or go for a visa to travel.
3. Processing Time Factors
- OCI processing may take 6-8 weeks or more, subject to the volume of applications.
- Plan travel accordingly and seek a visa, if necessary.
4. OCI Card Approval and Collection
- Your OCI card will be intimated for collection from the assigned center after approval.
- If you are in India when it is approved, you might have to exit and re-enter the country to make it active.
