Applying for OCI Card in Bahrain as an Indian National: A Detailed Guide

Navigating the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) application process can feel like a maze, especially when you're doing it from a foreign country like Bahrain. This guide is here to simplify it for you, offering a clear, step-by-step walkthrough based on insights from those who've been through it. Our goal is to make your OCI journey as smooth as possible, from understanding the requirements to finally holding your OCI card.

What is an OCI Card and Why Get One?

The OCI card is a lifelong visa for India, offering numerous benefits to persons of Indian origin who are citizens of other countries (excluding Pakistan and Bangladesh). It essentially grants you most of the rights of an Indian citizen, except for voting, holding constitutional posts, or buying agricultural land. For Indians residing in Bahrain, it's a way to maintain a strong connection to their roots, allowing hassle-free travel and stay in India without needing a visa.

Who is Eligible for an OCI Card?

Before you even start, it's crucial to confirm your eligibility. You can apply for an OCI card if you:

• Were a citizen of India on or after January 26, 1950.
• Were eligible to become a citizen of India on January 26, 1950.
• Belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
• Are a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of such a person.
• Are a minor child whose parents are Indian citizens or OCI cardholders.
• Are a spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder (provided the marriage has subsisted for at least two years and is registered).

Important Note: You cannot be a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

Essential Documents You'll Need (Start Gathering Early!)

The most common reason for application delays or rejections is incorrect or incomplete documentation. Start collecting these well in advance. All documents must be self-attested.

General Documents for All Applicants:

• Current Valid Passport: Your existing Indian passport.
• Proof of Indian Origin: This is critical. It could be:
  • Your birth certificate.
  • An old Indian passport (your own, or of your parents/grandparents).
  • A domicile certificate.
  • Proof of your parents' or grandparents' Indian nationality (e.g., their Indian passports, birth certificates).
• Proof of Address in Bahrain:
  • Your Bahrain CPR (Smart Card).
  • Utility bills (electricity, water) in your name.
  • Rental agreement.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized color photographs (51x51mm, white background, no shadows, matte finish). Strict specifications apply; get them done professionally.
• Signature: A clear scan of your signature.
• Application Form: The completed online application form (Part A & Part B).
• Marriage Certificate (if applicable): If applying as a spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI holder.
• Renunciation Certificate: If you have previously held foreign citizenship and renounced your Indian citizenship. This is often the first step for many and must be done before applying for OCI.

Specific Documents for Minors:

• All general documents mentioned above.
• Birth Certificate: Of the minor child.
• Parents' Passports: Both parents' current Indian passports.
• Parents' Marriage Certificate.
• Parental Consent Letter: A declaration signed by both parents consenting to the child's OCI application.
• Parents' OCI Cards (if applicable): If one or both parents are OCI holders.

Specific Documents for Spouse-Based Applications:

• All general documents.
• Registered Marriage Certificate: Valid for at least two years.
• Spouse's Indian Passport or OCI Card.
• Joint Photograph (sometimes requested, but typically two individual photos are enough).

Pro Tip: Always carry originals and at least two sets of photocopies of all documents when you go for submission. The officials will verify against the originals.

The OCI Application Process in Bahrain: Step-by-Step

In Bahrain, the OCI application process is facilitated by VFS Global on behalf of the Embassy of India, Bahrain.

Step 1: Online Application on the OCI Portal

1. Visit the Official OCI Services Website: Go to the OCI Services website.
2. Select "New OCI Registration": Read the instructions carefully.
3. Fill Part A of the Application: This involves your basic personal details, passport information, and family details.
4. Upload Photograph and Signature:
   • Photograph: Must be 51x51mm (2x2 inches), white background, no shadows. Scan and upload in JPEG/JPG format, max size 200KB.
   • Signature: Scan your signature (only the signature, not a full page) in JPEG/JPG format, max size 200KB.
5. Fill Part B of the Application: This section requires more detailed information, including your Indian origin proof, current address, and previous visa details.
6. Upload Supporting Documents: This is where you upload scans of all your supporting documents (passport, birth certificate, proof of address, etc.). Each document should be a separate PDF file, max size 500KB.
   • Practical Tip: Use an online PDF compressor if your files are too large. Ensure clarity after compression.
7. Review and Submit: Carefully review all entered information. Once submitted, you cannot edit it online.
8. Print Application: After successful submission, print out the complete application form (Part A and Part B). You'll usually get a reference number.

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment with VFS Global

1. Visit the VFS Global Website for India in Bahrain: Go to VFS Global's India page for Bahrain.
2. Book an Appointment: You'll need to register and then book an appointment for "OCI Services."
   • Practical Tip: Appointments can fill up quickly. Book as soon as you've completed your online application.
3. Print Appointment Confirmation: Bring this with you to VFS.

Step 3: Document Submission at VFS Global

On your appointment day, visit the VFS Global center in Bahrain with the following:

• Printed Online Application Form: Both Part A and Part B.
• Original Indian Passport(s): Your current valid Indian passport and any previous Indian passports (if applicable, especially if showing Indian origin).
• Original Supporting Documents: All the documents you uploaded online (birth certificate, marriage certificate, CPR, utility bills, etc.).
• Photocopies of All Documents: At least two sets, self-attested.
• Photographs: Two physical passport-sized photos, matching the one uploaded online.
• Payment for Fees:
  • OCI Application Fee: The fee for the OCI card itself.
  • VFS Service Charge: VFS Global charges a service fee for their administrative services.
  • Practical Tip: Check the latest fees on the VFS Global website. Payment is usually accepted via debit/credit card or cash at the center.

The VFS staff will verify your documents, take your fingerprints (biometrics), and collect the application. They will give you an acknowledgment receipt with a tracking number.

Step 4: Tracking Your Application

You can track the status of your OCI application using the acknowledgment number on the OCI Services website under "OCI Status Enquiry."

• Processing Time: Expect the process to take anywhere from 6-12 weeks, sometimes longer. Factors like document verification and workload can influence this. Patience is key!
• Practical Tip: Don't book any urgent travel to India requiring your OCI card until you have it in hand. If you need to travel, you'll need to apply for a separate Indian visa.

Step 5: Receiving Your OCI Card

Once your application status shows "Document received" and then "OCI card dispatched," you will typically receive an SMS or email notification from VFS Global when your OCI card is ready for collection.

• Collection: Go to the VFS Global center with your acknowledgment receipt and a valid ID to collect your OCI booklet.

Important Considerations & Practical Tips

• Renunciation Certificate: If you've previously acquired foreign citizenship, you must renounce your Indian citizenship first and obtain a Renunciation Certificate. This is a separate process, often handled by VFS Global/Embassy, and it's a prerequisite for OCI.
• Document Clarity: Ensure all scanned documents are clear, legible, and correctly oriented. Poor quality scans are a common reason for rejections.
• Photo Specifications: Be extremely particular about your photos. They are often rejected for minor discrepancies (lighting, background, size).
• Minor Applicants: Ensure both parents' signatures are on consent forms and that all required documents for both parents are submitted.
• Spouse-Based Applications: The two-year marriage duration is strictly enforced. Ensure your marriage certificate is registered and valid.
• Don't Rush: Take your time filling out the online form. Errors here can lead to rejections or significant delays.
• Keep Copies: Always keep copies of everything you submit.

After Getting Your OCI Card: What You Need to Know

Once you receive your OCI card, you're all set for hassle-free travel to India. However, there are a few rules regarding re-issuance that you should be aware of:

• For OCI cardholders below 20 years of age: The OCI card needs to be re-issued once after the issuance of a new passport, upon turning 20 years of age.
• For OCI cardholders between 20 and 50 years of age: Re-issuance of OCI card is not required even if a new passport is obtained.
• For OCI cardholders above 50 years of age: The OCI card needs to be re-issued once after the issuance of a new passport, upon turning 50 years of age.
• Change in Particulars: If there is a change in personal particulars (e.g., name, nationality, marital status), a new OCI card will need to be applied for.
• Loss or Damage: In case of loss or damage to the OCI booklet, apply for a duplicate OCI card.

Always travel with both your OCI booklet and your current valid foreign passport. The OCI card is a lifelong visa, but it's linked to your passport.

Common Questions Answered

• Can I apply for OCI if my Indian passport has expired? Yes, you can, as long as you have proof of your Indian origin. However, having a valid passport simplifies identity verification.
• What if I need to travel to India urgently while my OCI application is pending? You will need to apply for an appropriate Indian visa (e.g., Tourist Visa) through VFS Global. Your OCI application processing won't be affected, but you cannot use the OCI benefits until you receive the card.
• Do I need an Indian visa after getting an OCI card? No, the OCI card itself serves as a multi-purpose, lifelong visa for India.
• Can I apply for OCI if I am a Bahraini citizen of Indian origin? Yes, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and have renounced your Indian citizenship (if applicable) and obtained the Renunciation Certificate.

The OCI application process, while detailed, is manageable with careful preparation. By following this guide, gathering your documents meticulously, and being patient, you'll be well on your way to obtaining your OCI card in Bahrain. Good luck!