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Renunciation of OCI Renunciation of OCI

Renunciation of OCI

Overview

Renunciation of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a formal process by which an OCI cardholder voluntarily gives up their OCI status. If an overseas citizen of India, who is of full age and capacity, submits a declaration renouncing their OCI status in the prescribed manner, the Central Government will register this declaration. Upon registration, the individual ceases to be an OCI cardholder. Additionally, any minor child registered as an OCI cardholder under that person will also lose OCI status automatically upon the parent's renunciation.

Legal Basis and Implications

    • The process is governed by the Citizenship Rules, 2009.

    • Once renunciation is registered, the individual and their minor children (if registered as OCI under the same person) are no longer entitled to OCI privileges.

    • This action is irreversible and should be considered carefully.

How to Renounce OCI Status

Required Forms

    • Form XXII: Declaration of renunciation of OCI status by the applicant.

    • Form XXII A: Acknowledgement of the renunciation, issued by the Indian Mission/Post after registration of the declaration.

Both forms are available for download from the respective Indian Mission or Consulate website.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Complete the Online Application


    • Visit the official OCI services portal (https://ociservices.gov.in) and use the OCI Miscellaneous Services section to submit an online application for renunciation of OCI status.

    • Fill out Form XXII online, ensuring all details are accurate before submission, as changes cannot be made after submission.

  2. Prepare Required Documents


    • Duly signed original OCI application form (Form XXII).

    • Original OCI card and copies of the first and last two pages.

    • Copy of current valid passport (information page, self-attested).

    • Proof of legal status in the country of residence (e.g., Green Card, visa, residence permit), if holding a non-local passport.

    • Any additional documents specified by the Indian Mission/Post.

  3. Submission


    • Submit the physical copy of the application form and all supporting documents to the designated Indian Mission/Post or their authorized service provider (such as VFS Global, in the US).

    • The declaration in Form XXII must be signed in the presence of a consular officer. The second page should be signed by an Indian citizen witness, including their details and signature.

  4. Processing and Acknowledgement


    • Upon successful registration of the renunciation, the Central Government (or the Indian Mission/Post) will issue an acknowledgement in Form XXII A.

    • Processing times may vary but typically range from 7 to 21 working days after the application reaches the Embassy/Consulate.

  5. After Renunciation


    • The individual and their minor children (if applicable) cease to be OCI cardholders.

    • The person will need a valid Indian visa or other travel authorization to visit India in the future.

Important Notes

    • The process is distinct from the renunciation of Indian citizenship and cannot be combined with other applications, such as for an OCI card or Indian visa.

    • Ensure all documents are self-attested and that the application is complete to avoid delays.

    • For detailed checklists, fees, and submission instructions, refer to the official VFS Global or Indian Mission/Post website relevant to your jurisdiction.