OCI Card Help and Surrender Certificate Services

If you held an Indian passport before taking foreign citizenship, the surrender certificate is usually required with the OCI application. Rules and exceptions can change, so check current instructions on the official OCI portal or with your Indian mission before applying.

Usually your foreign passport, proof of Indian origin such as an old Indian passport or a parent or grandparent record, a surrender certificate where relevant, photographs and a signature. The exact list depends on your case, so confirm it on the official portal.

Documents not in English or Hindi often need a certified translation when they are submitted for an application. Requirements differ between authorities, so ask which one applies to you. A certified translator can prepare the translation with a signed declaration.

It varies. Processing depends on the Indian mission, the completeness of your documents and any verification needed. Treat any quoted time as an estimate only, and avoid booking non refundable travel until you actually hold the card or a valid visa.