Last updated: 17 July 2026 · This is a developing situation — see live sources at the end.
Good news first: even though VFS Global is suspended in Australia, you can still get your OCI card. That is because the OCI application is actually filed on the Indian Government's own website, not on VFS. This guide explains, in simple steps, how to apply for an OCI card while VFS is down, what documents you need, and how we can do the whole thing for you.
Can you still apply for an OCI card while VFS is suspended?
Yes. Here is the part most people do not realise: the OCI application is submitted on the official Government of India OCI portal at ociservices.gov.in. This government website is separate from VFS Global and is still online and working.
VFS was mostly the middle-man that helped collect documents and forward them. With VFS paused, the online application step still runs, the key is preparing everything correctly so it is not delayed or rejected.
Want us to handle the whole OCI application for you? Inquire now on WhatsApp →
What is an OCI Card? (quick explainer)
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An OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is for people of Indian origin who are now citizens of another country like Indians who became Australian citizens. It lets you live, work, study, and travel in and out of India without needing a separate visa each time. If you gave up your Indian passport to become Australian, an OCI card is how you keep a lifelong link to India.
How to apply for an OCI Card (step by step)
Here is the process in simple steps:
- Fill in the online form. Go to the official portal (ociservices.gov.in) and complete the OCI registration form carefully. Small mistakes here cause big delays.
- Upload your documents. You will need your current passport, proof of Indian origin, a recent photo (following exact size and background rules), and a signature. Foreign spouse and minor applications need extra documents.
- Pay the government fee. This is paid as part of the online process.
- Submit and track. Once submitted, the application is processed and you can track its progress.
The rules for photos, documents and proof are strict — this is the stage where most applications get delayed if done alone. Source: Government of India OCI FAQs.
Documents you'll usually need
- Your current (foreign) passport - for example, your Australian passport.
- Proof of Indian origin - like your old Indian passport, or a parent's or grandparent's Indian passport or birth certificate.
- A recent passport-style photo (strict size and plain background).
- Your signature in the correct format.
- For a minor child: both parents' documents.
- For a foreign spouse: marriage certificate and extra proof (this application gets more scrutiny).
Which OCI application do you need? (with pricing)
Different people need different OCI applications. Here is what we handle, with clear fixed pricing:
- First OCI card (adult): OCI Card – New Application (Adult) — ₹9,999, 3–5 business days.
- OCI for your child: OCI Card for Minor Child — ₹8,499, 3–5 business days.
- OCI for a foreign spouse: OCI Card for Foreign Spouse — ₹12,999, 4–6 business days.
- New passport or turned 20: OCI Card Re-issue / Passport Update — ₹7,499, 2–4 business days.
- Lost or damaged card: OCI Card – Lost / Damaged Replacement — ₹8,999, 3–5 business days.
- Giving up Indian citizenship: Renunciation / Surrender Certificate — ₹6,999, 3–5 business days.
Got a new passport and not sure if you need a re-issue? The rules depend on your age — ask us on WhatsApp → and we will tell you in minutes.
See all options on our OCI & Citizenship services page.
How EazyViza does it for you
Doing an OCI application alone is stressful — one wrong photo size or a missing document can send it back and cost you weeks. We handle the whole thing: filling the government form correctly, arranging every document, checking the photo and signature meet the exact rules, and submitting it properly through the official process. Every application is lawyer-supervised, the price is fixed with no surprises, and you can talk to a real person on WhatsApp the whole way.
Ready to get your OCI card sorted? Inquire now on WhatsApp →
Sources & live updates
This is a developing situation. Always confirm current requirements on the official channels.
- Government of India OCI portal: ociservices.gov.in
- VFS Global — Temporary Suspension notice: services.vfsglobal.com
- Related guide: VFS Global Down? Get your OCI, passport or visa sorted
Last reviewed: 17 July 2026. General information only, not legal advice, and covers a live situation that may change. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official Government of India OCI portal.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for an OCI card in Australia while VFS is suspended?
Yes. The OCI application is filed on the Government of India portal (ociservices.gov.in), which is separate from VFS and still working. The application can be prepared and submitted correctly even during the VFS suspension.
Where is the OCI application actually submitted?
On the official Government of India OCI portal at ociservices.gov.in. VFS was mainly a document-handling middle-man; the core application is a government online process.
How much does an OCI card cost with EazyViza?
Our fixed prices start at ₹9,999 for a new adult OCI application, ₹8,499 for a minor child, ₹12,999 for a foreign spouse, and ₹7,499 for a re-issue after a new passport.
How long does an OCI application take?
Our application pack is prepared in about 3–5 business days for most applications. Total government processing time is separate and set by the authorities.
What documents do I need for an OCI card?
Usually your current foreign passport, proof of Indian origin, a recent passport-style photo, and your signature. Minor and foreign-spouse applications need extra documents, which we handle for you.
