Applying for an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) Card

Processing Time & Costs

**Processing Time: **Typically 6 to 8 weeks from the date of submission at a BLS center, though this can vary.

Fees (in Canada): The new OCI registration fee is CAD 376 (includes a CAD 5 ICWF charge). BLS charges an additional CAD 1.70 processing fee plus courier charges.

Step-by-Step Process

Check Eligibility: You are generally eligible if you were a citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950, or are a child/grandchild/great-grandchild of such a person.

Gather Required Documents:

• Proof of current Canadian citizenship (Canadian passport).
• Proof of Indian origin (e.g., previous Indian passport, birth certificate, or surrender certificate).
• Proof of address in Canada.

For minors: • Birth certificate • Parents’ passports • Proof of marital status

Complete the Online Application: Fill out the form on the Government of India’s OCI Services Portal (ociservices.gov.in) and print it.

Pay the Fees: Pay the required fees as per BLS instructions.

Book a BLS Appointment & Submit in Person: As of April 5, 2026, all OCI applications must be submitted in person at a BLS Centre for biometric enrollment. Postal submission is no longer accepted.

Track Your Application: Monitor your status online via the BLS International portal.

Official Links & Resources

• OCI Services Portal: ociservices.gov.in • BLS International Canada: blsindia-canada.com • High Commission of India, Ottawa: hciottawa.gov.in

Last Verified: October 26, 2026