SFO help for new OCI

[Britches]

First time applicant to new OCI

1. Does one need to send original passport with the OCI application? What if one needs to travel on the passport? How quickly is the passport returned to the applicant?
2. Does the passport have to be sent again for the affixation of OCI?
3. How long does the entire OCI process take?
4. What has been the experiences and insights regarding the new OCI ?

[kiranboda]

1) Yes. It takes anywhere between 2-4 weeks for passport to be returned for verification. You have to plan around this timeframe.
2) No, it is sent in the beginning and returned after verification
3) 2-4 weeks for passport verification and then the application is submitted to the consulate. Expect another 60 days from submission to receipt of OCI card.
4) The process is easy, but plan ahead and go through this forum to avoid mistakes in application as VFS is notorious to deal with.

[Britches]

Thanks Vinod. If the passport is returned after verification who affixes the OCI to the U.S. passport? You mentioned that the passport is returned after verification.

[Britches]

Sorry. Thanks Kiran. Typo apologies.

[kiranboda]

The process changed recently and looks like you no longer have to submit original US passport for verification. Please go through VFS website for updated new checklist.