Your Step-by-Step Guide: Getting an OCI Card for a Newborn in Abu Dhabi

Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible journey, and if you're an Indian parent in Abu Dhabi, you might already be thinking about securing your newborn's future connection to India. One of the most significant steps in this direction is applying for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card for your little one.

Getting an OCI card for your newborn in Abu Dhabi might seem like a maze of paperwork and appointments, but with a clear understanding of the process, it's totally manageable. Think of this guide as your friendly navigator, helping you through each step, based on what many parents have experienced.

What is an OCI Card and Who is Eligible?

The OCI card is a lifelong visa and an identity document for persons of Indian origin, allowing them to live and work in India indefinitely. For your newborn, it means they won't need a separate visa to visit India, making travel much smoother in the long run.

Eligibility for a newborn is straightforward:

• The child must have been born in a foreign country (like the UAE).
• At least one of the parents, or both grandparents, or great-grandparents must be a citizen of India or have been a citizen of India at any time after 26th January 1950.
• Crucially, neither the child nor the parents should be citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

Essential Prerequisites Before You Start

Before you even think about filling out the OCI application, you need to have a few vital documents ready. These can take time to obtain and attest, so start here:

1. Baby's UAE Birth Certificate: This is the first and most fundamental document. Once you have it, you'll need to get it attested by:
   • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) in the UAE.
   • The Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi.
2. Baby's Indian Passport: Your newborn needs an Indian passport before applying for an OCI. This is a separate application process, typically handled by BLS International in Abu Dhabi. Make sure you get this done first.
3. Parents' Marriage Certificate: This document also needs to be attested by MoFAIC, UAE, and the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi if it was issued outside India. If it was issued in India, it generally doesn't require further attestation for OCI purposes, but always check the latest guidelines.
4. Parents' Indian Passports: You'll need copies of both parents' Indian passports.
5. Parents' UAE Residence Visas: Copies of both parents' valid UAE residence visas.

Pro-tip: Attestations can be time-consuming. Start the birth certificate and marriage certificate attestation processes as soon as possible after the baby is born.

Documents You'll Need (The Checklist)

Once you have the prerequisites sorted, it's time to gather all the documents for the OCI application. This is where attention to detail really pays off. Always carry originals for verification and multiple sets of photocopies.

For the Baby (The Applicant):

• Baby's Indian Passport: Original and a photocopy of all relevant pages (front, back, visa pages if any).
• Baby's UAE Birth Certificate: Original and a photocopy, attested by MoFAIC UAE and the Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi.
• Two Passport-sized Photographs: Specific requirements apply (2x2 inch, white background, matte finish, front-facing, no shadows). Ensure the photos are clear and recent.
• Baby's Visa Copy: If the baby has a UAE residence visa stamp in their passport, include a copy.

For the Parents:

• Parents' Indian Passports: Original and a photocopy of all relevant pages (front, back, visa pages).
• Parents' UAE Residence Visas: Photocopies.
• Parents' Marriage Certificate: Original and a photocopy, attested by MoFAIC UAE and the Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi (if issued outside India).
• OCI Cards of Parents (if applicable): If either parent already has an OCI card, include a copy.
• Address Proof in UAE: A copy of your tenancy contract, utility bill (DEWA/ADDC), or Emirates ID.
• Address Proof in India: A copy of an Indian utility bill, Aadhar card, or Indian passport showing an Indian address for at least one parent.
• Undertaking/Affidavit: If one parent holds an OCI card or foreign nationality, you might need a specific affidavit stating the child is not a citizen of Pakistan/Bangladesh and that the foreign national parent has no objection to the child acquiring Indian citizenship. This can usually be attested at the Indian Embassy/Consulate.

General Documents:

• Printed OCI Application Form: The completed online application form.
• Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for the OCI application.

Crucial Note: All photocopies of documents, especially those related to the baby and parents, must be self-attested by BOTH parents. This means both parents need to sign each copy, stating "Self-Attested."

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

With all your documents in hand, you're ready to tackle the application itself.

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

• Go to the official OCI services website: ociservices.gov.in.
• Click on "OCI Registration" and then "New OCI Registration."
• Carefully fill out Part A of the application. This covers basic details of the applicant (your baby) and parents.
• Upload the baby's photograph and signature/thumb impression. For newborns, a clear thumb impression is usually required instead of a signature. Ensure the photo meets the specifications.
• Once Part A is complete, proceed to Part B. This section requires more detailed information and lists of documents you will be submitting. Be thorough and accurate.
• After submitting Part B, you will receive a reference number. Print out the entire application form.

Step 2: Gather and Organize Physical Documents

• Go through your checklist and ensure you have all originals and attested photocopies.
• Arrange your documents in the order specified by BLS International (they usually have a checklist on their website for OCI for minors). This makes the submission process smoother.

Step 3: Book an Appointment with BLS International

• BLS International is the authorized service provider for Indian consular services in the UAE, including OCI applications.
• Visit their website and book an appointment for "OCI Services for Minor" at their Abu Dhabi center. Appointments are mandatory.

Step 4: Submit Your Application at BLS

• On your appointment day, arrive at the BLS International center in Abu Dhabi well in advance.
• Both parents and the newborn must be present for the submission, especially for biometric verification (fingerprints for parents, thumb impression for the baby if not done digitally).
• Present all your original documents and the self-attested photocopies. The BLS staff will verify them against the originals.
• Pay the required fees. The OCI application fee is typically around AED 1000-1100, plus a BLS service charge of around AED 9-10, and any optional courier charges if you want the OCI card delivered to you. Always confirm current fees on the BLS website.
• You will receive an acknowledgment receipt with a file number. Keep this safe.

Step 5: Track Your Application

• You can track the status of your OCI application online using the reference number from your printed application form on the ociservices.gov.in website.
• The status will typically move from "Application Received" to "Under Process" to "Documents Printing Status" and finally "Dispatched from MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs)" to "Received at Mission."

Fees and Processing Time

• Fees: As mentioned, expect to pay around AED 1000-1150 in total for the OCI application, BLS service fees, and any optional services. These are subject to change, so verify on the BLS website.
• Processing Time: This is where patience is key. Generally, an OCI application for a newborn can take anywhere from 60 to 90 working days. However, it can sometimes extend to 3-4 months or even longer due to various checks, including police verification in India for parents. Don't plan any immediate travel to India relying solely on the OCI card.

After Submission: What to Expect

• Status Updates: Regularly check the ociservices.gov.in portal. The status changes can be slow, so don't fret if it stays "Under Process" for a while.
• Police Verification: Sometimes, a police verification might be initiated for the parents at their Indian address. Ensure your Indian contact details are correct.
• OCI Booklet Dispatch: Once approved, the OCI booklet will be printed and dispatched from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in India to the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
• Collection: You will receive an email or SMS notification from BLS International when your OCI card is ready for collection. You'll need to visit the BLS center with your acknowledgment receipt and original passports for verification.

Practical Tips and Common Pitfalls

• Start Early: Especially with attestations and getting the baby's passport. These are the biggest time consumers.
• Document Accuracy and Completeness: The most common reason for delays or rejections is incomplete or incorrect documentation. Double-check everything against the BLS checklist.
• Photo Specifications: Adhere strictly to the OCI photo requirements. Poor quality or incorrectly sized photos are a frequent cause for re-submission.
• Attestations are Key: Ensure all required documents are properly attested. An unattested document will lead to rejection.
• Carry Originals: Always bring all original documents, even if you're only submitting photocopies, as they will be verified.
• Travel While Waiting: If you need to travel to India before the OCI card arrives, your newborn will need an Indian e-Visa or a regular visa stamped in their passport. The OCI is not a substitute for a valid travel document until it's physically issued.
• Patience is a Virtue: The OCI process can be lengthy. Avoid making urgent travel plans to India that depend on the OCI card's arrival.

Common Questions Answered

• "Can one parent apply alone?" Generally, both parents must be present during the submission at BLS International, especially for fingerprint verification and signing declarations.
• "What if parents have different nationalities?" If one parent is Indian and the other is a foreign national (not Pakistani or Bangladeshi), the child is still eligible for an OCI card. You'll need an affidavit from the foreign national parent stating no objection.
• "Is it mandatory to have an OCI for a newborn?" No, it's not mandatory. Your child can travel to India on an Indian passport with a valid visa if they don't have an OCI card. However, the OCI provides lifelong visa-free travel and other benefits, making it a highly recommended document for children of Indian origin.

Conclusion

Getting an OCI card for your newborn in Abu Dhabi is a significant administrative task, but it's a worthwhile investment in your child's connection to their heritage. By being prepared, meticulously organizing your documents, and following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the process smoothly. Remember, patience and attention to detail are your best allies throughout this journey. Congratulations on your new arrival, and happy OCI application!