What Changes Were Made to the OCI Portal by HM Amit Shah?
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Synopsis
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched a newly designed OCI portal aimed at simplifying the registration process for Indian-origin citizens. With enhanced security measures, this portal promises a more user-friendly experience, ensuring that over five million Overseas Citizens can remain connected with India effortlessly.
Key Takeaways
- Amit Shah launched a revamped OCI portal.
- Portal enhances security and simplifies registration.
- Over five million Indian-origin citizens can stay connected.
- New user-friendly features introduced.
- Accessible at the existing URL: https://ociservices.gov.in.
New Delhi, May 19 (NationPress) The Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the newly designed Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) portal on Monday, aimed at enhancing security and streamlining the registration process for over five million Indian-origin citizens, ensuring they stay connected with their homeland.
In his address, HM Shah highlighted that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is committed to offering top-tier immigration services to its OCI cardholders.
He pointed out that a significant number of Indian-origin citizens live globally, and it is crucial that they do not encounter any difficulties while visiting or residing in India.
The newly revamped portal features an updated user interface designed to simplify the registration for Overseas Citizens.
On this occasion, notable figures such as the Union Home Secretary, the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) were present.
This upgraded portal is set to deliver improved functionality, heightened security, and a more user-friendly experience for both existing and new users among the over five million OCI cardholders. The new OCI portal can be accessed via the existing URL: https://ociservices.gov.in.
The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme, established through an amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955 in 2005, allows for the registration of Persons of Indian Origin as Overseas Citizens of India. This applies to those who were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or were eligible to become citizens on that date, as stated.
However, individuals who are or have been citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh, including their parents or grandparents, are not eligible.
The previous OCI Services portal, launched in 2013, is currently operational in over 180 Indian missions and 12 Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs), processing around 2,000 applications daily.
In light of significant technological advancements over the past decade and feedback from OCI cardholders, this updated OCI portal has been designed to overcome previous limitations and improve user experience, as stated.
The new OCI portal introduces several user-centric features, such as user sign-up, a divided registration menu, auto-fill for user profile details in forms, a dashboard to show completed and partially filled applications, and an integrated online payment system for FRRO filings.
Additional features include easy navigation through application steps, categorization of required documents based on application type, an editing option for applicants at any stage before submission, integrated FAQs within the portal, reminders to verify information prior to final submission, display of eligibility criteria and required documents based on the chosen application type, and a built-in image cropping tool for uploading applicant photos and signatures.
Point of View
The launch of the revamped OCI portal by HM Amit Shah represents a crucial step toward enhancing the connectivity of Indian-origin citizens with their homeland. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to providing world-class immigration facilities and ensuring that citizens abroad do not face challenges while visiting or residing in India. It is a positive move that aligns with the nation's goal to strengthen ties with its diaspora.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new OCI portal?
The new OCI portal aims to enhance security and streamline the registration process for Overseas Citizens of India, ensuring a better user experience for over five million Indian-origin citizens.
How can I access the new OCI portal?
You can access the new OCI portal by visiting the existing URL: https://ociservices.gov.in.
Who is eligible for OCI registration?
Individuals of Indian origin who were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or were eligible to become citizens on that date are eligible for OCI registration, except for those with Pakistani or Bangladeshi ancestry.
What features does the new OCI portal offer?
The new portal offers user sign-up, auto-fill options, a dashboard for application tracking, integrated online payments, and more user-friendly features for a seamless experience.
When was the OCI scheme first introduced?
The OCI scheme was introduced in 2005 through an amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955.
