Applying for an OCI Card for Your Minor Child in Dubai (Both Parents Indian Citizens)

Getting an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card for your minor child in Dubai can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and understanding of the process, it's quite manageable. This guide cuts through the confusion to give you a clear, step-by-step path, specifically for Indian parents residing in Dubai.

What Matters Most: Preparation is Key

The most crucial aspect of a successful OCI application is meticulous document preparation. Any discrepancy, missing paper, or incorrect format can lead to delays or rejection. For minors with both Indian parents, the process is generally straightforward once you have all your ducks in a row.

Understanding the OCI for Minors

An OCI card grants lifelong visa-free entry to India and several other benefits, making travel and connection to India much easier for your child. For a minor whose parents are both Indian citizens, the eligibility is clear: the child is considered of Indian origin.

In Dubai, all OCI applications are handled by VFS Global, acting on behalf of the Consulate General of India (CGI), Dubai.

Prerequisites: Before You Start

Before you even touch the online application form, ensure you have the following ready:

Minor's Valid Passport: Your child must have a non-Indian passport (e.g., UAE passport if born there and eligible, or a passport from another country if they hold dual nationality). If they only have an Indian passport, they are an Indian citizen and not eligible for OCI until they surrender their Indian citizenship.
Parents' Valid Indian Passports: Both parents must have valid Indian passports.
Parents' Valid UAE Resident Visas: Proof of legal residency in the UAE.
Marriage Certificate: A valid marriage certificate of the parents.
Child's Birth Certificate: This is crucial to establish the parent-child relationship.

The Step-by-Step OCI Application Process

Let's break down the journey into manageable steps.

Step 1: Online Application Form Submission

Access the Government Portal: Go to the official OCI application website: https://ociservices.gov.in.
Choose 'New OCI Registration': Select the option for 'New OCI Registration' and then 'Apply Online'.
Fill the Form Carefully: This is where attention to detail is paramount.
- Enter all details exactly as they appear on the respective passports and certificates.
- Minor's Details: Use the minor's non-Indian passport details.
- Parents' Details: Provide both parents' Indian passport details.
- Address: Use your current residential address in Dubai.
- Upload Photo & Signature: The system will prompt you to upload the minor's photograph and thumb impression (for minors who cannot sign). Ensure these meet the OCI photo specifications (typically 2x2 inch, white background, no shadows). For thumb impression, use black/blue ink on white paper, then scan.
Save and Print: After completing the online application, save the application, note down the Application Reference Number (ARN), and print out all parts of the application form. You'll need two sets of printouts.

Step 2: Document Preparation

This is often the most time-consuming part. You will need originals for verification and two sets of photocopies of all documents. Each photocopy set must be self-attested by both parents.

Key Documents to Prepare:

Printed OCI Application Form: Two sets of the complete form, signed by both parents (or thumb impression if applicable).
Minor's Passport: Original and two copies.
Minor's UAE Resident Visa: Original and two copies.
Minor's Birth Certificate: Original and two copies.
- Important: If the birth certificate was issued outside India or the UAE, it might need to be attested by the relevant authorities in that country and then by the Indian Embassy/Consulate. For UAE-issued certificates, attestation might not be required by CGI Dubai, but it's always safe to check VFS Global's latest requirements.
Parents' Indian Passports: Originals and two copies of both parents' passports (front page, last page, and any observation pages).
Parents' UAE Resident Visas: Originals and two copies of both parents' visas.
Parents' Marriage Certificate: Original and two copies.
- Important: If issued outside India/UAE, similar attestation rules apply as for the birth certificate. If issued in India, it should be apostilled or attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India. If issued in UAE, it needs attestation from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and then from CGI Dubai (before applying for OCI, or check if VFS accepts without CGI attestation first).
Proof of Address in Dubai: Original and two copies. This could be an electricity bill (DEWA), rent agreement, or bank statement showing your Dubai address.
Parents' Consent Letter (Annexure D or H): This is a mandatory affidavit where both parents declare their consent for the minor to obtain an OCI card.
- You can find the specific format on the VFS Global website under 'Forms & Annexures'.
- It must be signed by both parents and ideally notarized (though VFS sometimes accepts without notarization for joint applications, it's safer to get it notarized or be prepared to sign in front of the VFS officer).
Parental Undertaking (Annexure D/H usually covers this): A declaration by parents taking responsibility for the minor.
Passport-sized Photographs: Two recent, identical photographs of the minor (2x2 inch, white background, matte finish, no shadows) matching the one uploaded online.
Self-Attestation: Remember, every single photocopy needs to be self-attested by both parents. This means signing on each copy with a clear "True Copy Attested by [Your Name] & [Spouse's Name]".

Step 3: Booking an Appointment at VFS Global

VFS Global Website: Go to the VFS Global India UAE website.
Book an Appointment: Navigate to the 'Schedule an Appointment' section.
Select Service: Choose 'OCI Services'.
Location: Select the VFS Global center in Dubai.
Date and Time: Pick a suitable date and time.
Print Appointment Confirmation: You'll need to carry this with you.

Step 4: Submission at VFS Global

Arrive Early: Reach the VFS Global center at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
Bring Everything: Carry all originals, two sets of photocopies (self-attested), the printed application form, photographs, and the appointment confirmation.
Parents Must Accompany Minor: Both parents and the minor child must be present at the VFS Global center for submission.
Verification: A VFS officer will meticulously check all your documents against the originals. They will keep one set of photocopies and return the originals after verification.
Fees Payment: Pay the OCI application fee and VFS service charges at the counter. Fees can be paid by card or cash.
Collect Receipt: You will receive an acknowledgment receipt with a tracking number. Keep this safe!

Step 5: Tracking Your Application

You can track the status of your OCI application using the ARN (Application Reference Number) on the official OCI Services website. It will typically show status updates like "Application Received," "Under Process," "Documents Printing," and "Dispatched from Delhi."

Step 6: Collection of OCI Card

Notification: Once your OCI card is ready for collection at VFS Global, you will usually receive an SMS or email notification.
Collection: Carry your original VFS receipt and a valid ID for collection. Only one parent might be required for collection, but check VFS guidelines.
Verify Details: Upon receiving the OCI card, immediately check all details (name, date of birth, passport number, etc.) to ensure there are no errors.

Fees and Timeframes

Fees: The OCI application fee is typically around AED 1090 (subject to change, always check VFS Global's current fee schedule). There are also VFS service charges (around AED 30-40) and optional courier charges.
Timeframe: For a fresh OCI application, the processing time can range from 8 to 12 weeks or sometimes longer. It's crucial not to make any travel plans to India based on a hopeful OCI card arrival within a specific short window. Delays can occur due to various reasons, including document verification or backlogs.

Common Pitfalls and Practical Tips

Photo Specifications: This is a frequent cause of rejection. Ensure the photo is recent, clear, shows full face, has a white background, and no shadows.
Signature/Thumb Impression: For minors, a clear thumb impression (left for boys, right for girls, or as per specific instructions) is crucial. Ensure it's not smudged.
Document Attestation: Do not underestimate the attestation requirements. If a document is from outside India or UAE, clarify if it needs attestation by the Indian mission in that country before applying in Dubai. For UAE-issued documents, MOFA attestation and then CGI Dubai attestation might be needed for some documents like marriage certificates.
Discrepancies: Ensure names, dates of birth, and other details match exactly across all documents (passports, birth certificate, marriage certificate). Even minor spelling differences can cause issues.
Self-Attestation: Remember to self-attest every single page of every single photocopy in both sets.
Parents' Consent: The Annexure D/H is vital. Make sure it's correctly filled, signed by both parents, and notarized if required.
Proof of Address: A recent utility bill (DEWA) or tenancy contract is usually best. Bank statements must be recent.
Online Form Accuracy: Double-check every field before submitting the online form. Once submitted, making changes can be cumbersome.
Keep Copies: Always keep a complete set of all submitted documents for your records.
Be Patient: The process takes time. Avoid calling VFS or CGI frequently for updates unless you've passed the expected processing window. Use the online tracking system.

After You Get the OCI Card

Once you receive the OCI card:

Verify Details: Check all details thoroughly.
Laminate (Optional): Many people choose to laminate the OCI booklet for durability.
Travel: Your child can now travel to India without a visa, carrying their OCI card and their foreign passport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do both parents need to be Indian citizens for a minor to get an OCI? A: No, only one parent needs to be an Indian citizen or OCI holder. This guide specifically addresses cases where both parents are Indian citizens, which simplifies some aspects (like proving Indian origin).

Q: What if my child's birth certificate is in a non-English language? A: It must be translated into English by a certified translator and then legalized/attested as per the country of issue and then by CGI Dubai/Indian Embassy.

Q: Can I apply for OCI if my child has an Indian passport? A: No. A person holding an Indian passport is an Indian citizen and cannot hold an OCI card. They would first need to surrender their Indian passport/citizenship and obtain a foreign passport.

Q: Is it mandatory for the minor child to be present at VFS? A: Yes, it is mandatory for the minor child and both parents to be present for the OCI application submission at VFS Global.

Q: What if one parent is not in Dubai during the application? A: This complicates things. The absent parent would need to provide a notarized consent letter (Annexure D/H) from their location, along with attested copies of their passport and visa, and sometimes a specific power of attorney. It's highly recommended both parents are present.

Conclusion

Applying for an OCI card for your minor child in Dubai is a structured process that demands precision in documentation. By following these steps and paying close attention to the details, especially regarding paperwork and attestations, you can ensure a smooth application experience. Remember to stay patient, organized, and proactive, and soon your child will have their OCI card, strengthening their connection to India.