If you want to clarify yourself about what to do if you have a damaged or lost OCI card in the UK? This is very common, many people have dealt with a lost OCI card. It can be a very frustrating experience for those who want to visit India in an emergency. This blog will help you to recover your damaged or lost OCI card in the UK.
In case you lost your OCI card, you need to file a police complaint and apply for a new OCI through the website. You will need to submit your application online and provide the necessary documents, such as a copy of your police complaint, passport, and OCI registration number. Before jumping directly to What To Do In Case Of Lost OCI, let’s talk about what an OCI is.
What is an OCI Card?
Overseas Citizens of India is the full form of OCI. An OCI card allows multiple entries in India, visa-free entry, and stay in India for an indefinite period with reporting to higher authorities. This card was introduced in 2005 based on the Citizenship Act, 1995. This card was created to address the demand for dual citizenship among Indians residing abroad.
The OCI card allows foreign residents of Indian origin the right to live and work in India without needing a regular visa. The citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and China are not eligible to apply for an OCI card. Many of you are confused about why having an OCI card is important for them.
Importance of Having an OCI Card
An OCI card is a very important document for those who live abroad with Indian origin. It offers several advantages to the cardholders, such as:
- OCI cardholders can travel lifelong to India without needing any regular visa.
- Cardholders don’t need to take any permission to stay in India from any higher authorities.
- An OCI card can be used for valid proof of identity for various purposes, including applying for a Pan card.
- Cardholders are allowed to buy or sell property in India. .
- Simplifying traveling Aadhar cards can help in airport security faster, it’s helpful in ticket booking.
- Most hotels prefer Aadhaar cards and OCI cards as identity proof.
- It helps to grab the scheme run by the government.
- It plays the main role in identifying banking loans and insurance
What To Do In Case Of Lost OCI?
Losing your OCI card can be a challenging experience, but worry not, we will take the appropriate steps to handle the situation:
You should file a police complaint
In the event of losing the OCI card in the UK, the first step you should take is to file a police complaint. This official report plays a main role in future documentation and procedure. It also includes the OCI Application UK for an Exit permit.
You should know why the Exit Permit is needed
Yes, an Exit Permit is compulsory for boarding approval. The FIR serves as poof of legal entry into the country and the following loss of your OCI card.
Check OCI during departure
Higher authorities check OCI cards during both arrival and departure. This checking process provides assurance of the legality of your entry and exit from the country. It is common when the airline authority checks your OCI card.
How to apply for an Exit Permit
To apply for an Exit Permit when OCI is lost, you should file a police report and retain a copy. Then, you will need to apply for a duplicate OCI card online and mail it to the relevant authority for approval. Once you have the duplicate OCI, you can then obtain an Exit Permit from the Foreigners Registration Office.
Required Documents For An Exit Permit Application
Recheck that you have the following in JPG format:
- A report showing the situation of OCI loss and requesting an exit permit.
- A report was made to the police station looking for a missing certificate.
- The missing report was issued by the police.
- Current original passport.
- Current OCI.
- Travel ticket.
- Proof of Indian origin.
How to check the Exit Permit status
If you want to check the Exit Permit, then you can use the online enquiry tool on the OCI website. You will need to provide your passport number and the online reference number to access the status.
Read Also: How to Apply for an OCI Card in the UK
Conclusion
It is not a big deal to lose an OCI card, many people face this situation. It can be a very frustrating experience for those who want to visit India in an emergency. In this blog, we have learned about Damaged or Lost OCI Card UK. In case you lose your OCI card, first, you have to file a Police complaint and then register for an exit permit from the OCI website. To avoid silly mistakes, you should seek help from Visament for a stress-free and memorable travel experience. Our experts are here to assist you 24*7.
