1. Application procedure:  
   In order to register as an OCI, an applicant should follow the steps given below:-
   To fill up the application :-  
    
   1. Click Online registration and complete the form (Part A) online.  To read up more information, read the instructions.
   2. After Part A is filled out, click save. A print window would appear. Click OK to print out the requisite application form consisting of Part A (which has been completed as online registration). The blank form of Part-B will automatically print itself along with Part A.
   3. The applicant must then fill-in Part B, which should be preferably TYPED Alternatively, it may be handwritten in capital letters with Blue or Black Ink only
   4. The completed application form (Part A & Part B) along with supporting documents must be submitted in duplicate (two sets) by mail to the Consulate. Besides affixing photographs on the application forms, the applicant must submit Three (3) colour Photographs (size 3.5 cm X 3.5 cm), taken against a light colour background.  
2. Important Notes
    
   1. The applicants should ensure that the application form is complete in all respects and is supported by all required documents and photographs  There is a checklist given at the end of Part B, which gives the list of documents that have to be enclosed at the time of submitting the OCI application form. It may be ensured that the applicant submits notarized or self attested (i.e. attested by applicant himself/herself) photocopies of his/her passport, PIO card and other supporting documents.  
   2. The application fee for registration under the OCI Scheme is US$ 275. An additional amount of US$ 20 towards return mailing charges should also be sent along with a self-addressed envelope accompanying the application. For PIO card holders, the fee for OCI is US$ 25which should be sent along with the application and an additional fee of US$ 20/- for return mailing charges.  Fee will be accepted in the form of money orders & certified cheques only. Personal Cheques will not be accepted.
   3. Note for PIO Card-holders
      A copy of PIO Card and copy of his/her cancelled Indian passport should be attached along with the application.  
      The PIO Card will have to be surrendered  at the time of receipt of the OCI registration certificate.

       

                  CLARIFICATIONS ON OCI APPLICATIONS

1. Application form to be submitted filled up legibly in capital letters (two sets of the application i.e. application form and documents properly tagged and listed should be submitted).
2. Photographs: Four recently taken and identical colour photographs with light background of 3.5 cm x 3.5 cm size. The photographs should show the front view of full face and should be in civil dress. Polaroid photographs, poor quality photographs and photographs taken in uniform or with dark glasses will be rejected. Two photographs should be affixed in the boxes on the application form and three photographs should be kept in an envelope and attached to the application.
3. Signatures: Specimen signature of applicant should be within the box. In case of children who cannot write or sign, thumb impression (left thumb impression of boys and right thumb impression of girls) should be given in the box. Parents can sign the application, but not in the box meant for specimen signatures.
4. Documents:
   • Copy of first and last pages/pages containing personal details of Indian Passport held by the applicant prior to acquiring foreign citizenship. Please do not attach photocopy of all pages of the passport.

     OR

     Birth Certificate in case of minors and applicants born outside India who did not possess Indian Passport; and copy of Indian passports of parents or grand parents (pages containing personal particulars only) where applicable (please do not attach photocopy of all pages of passport.

     OR

     Copy of PIO card in case of PIO card holders along with documents submitted as proof of PIO status while obtaining PIO card (those who obtained PIO card on the basis of he/she being spouse of a PIO is not eligible for OCI scheme).

     OR

     Any other proof of PIO status i.e. Birth Certificate and Domicile Certificate/Land ownership Certificate issued by the competent authority in India along with copy of any other document as evidence of PIO status and sworn affidavit. Acceptance of application with such documents would depend on the authenticity verification or prior clearance from the authorities concerned as considered necessary.

   • Copy of US or current nationality Passport. (Please attach copies of pages containing personal particulars only).
   • Photocopies of all documents enclosed with the application may either be notarized or self attested i.e. signed by the applicant himself/herself.

   (Note: Minors (below 18 years) whose both parents are Indian nationals are not eligible for registration as OCI. At least one parent of the minor should be a PIO having foreign citizenship to become eligible for the OCI scheme.)

5. Fee:
   • PIO Card holders: $ 25 Cashier's Cheque or Money Order
   • Non-PIO Card holders: $ 275 Cashier's Cheque or Money Order
   • Mailing Fee: $ 20 towards return mailing fee by FEDEX.
   • All Cashier's Cheques or Money Orders should be payable to the "Consulate General of India, Houston"