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Kartarpur Corridor ETA Visa Simplified: Visit Pakistan as Indian

KARTARPUR ETA IS EASY TO GET ONLINE, WITHOUT USING ANY AGENTS.

By Rakesh Sharma last updated on April 26, 2022

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I visited the Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur in Pakistan through the Kartarpur corridor ETA visa in December 2019, and I will walk you through the whole process.

For those who don’t know, the historic corridor connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India’s Punjab with Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur   in Pakistan was opened in November 2019. Right before the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur is located at a distance of 4.1 Km from PTB, Dera Baba Nanak.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a bar-coded authorization slip containing details of the name, confirmation of registration, date of travel, etc. of the applicant for his/her travel date to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur.

It’s not really a visa since they don’t stamp it on your passport.

ETA must be carried by the pilgrim for the visit. On this ETA, you can only visit Kartarpur and no other place in Pakistan.

Table of Contents

Eligibility Criteria for Kartarpur Corridor ETA Visa

• Only Indian citizens and OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) cardholders can visit Kartarpur on ETA.
• OCI cardholders must possess the passports of their own country and Indian citizens must possess their Indian passports.

Where and When to Apply

The only place to apply for the Kartarpur corridor ETA visa is the Indian Ministry of Home Affair’s website: https://prakashpurb550.mha.gov.in/kpr/ .

You should apply at least 15 days before you travel. As per the MHA’s website, the confirmation/non-confirmation of the visit will be sent to the applicant at least 4 days prior to the date of travel through SMS and email.

I had applied 15 days before I planned to travel.

Kartarpur Corridor ETA Visa: Steps to Apply Online

1. Visit Ministry of Home Affairs’ website for Prakash Purb , and click on “Apply Online”.

2. Select whether you are Indian or an OCI cardholder and your journey date. Once you do that, the website displays the dates on which slots are available. Select the day you want to visit Kartarpur.

3. You will be redirected to a form where you need to fill in your name, DOB, passport details, address etc. The form appears in parts. After completing each part, click on “Save and Continue”.

If you are a resident in India, you will be asked to fill in your OCI card details.

4. Now you can upload the soft copies of your photograph and passport. Make sure to uplaod the scanned copy of passport size photograph (only JPG & size between 10 kb- 300 kb).

You need to upload the bio page of Passport and the last page containing family details in PDF format only( 20 kb to 500 kb in size).

5. Once you complete the whole form, you will get your registration number and a pdf copy of the form. Save the pdf file and the registration number. This PDF is not the ETA, it’s simply your application.

Is Police verification needed for Kartarpur eTA?

The ministry checks your data in their records. It’s not like when you apply for your passport and the police pay you a visit. So whatever verification is done, it’s done internally only.

In my case, there was no call from the police for verification or any other agency. I was worried and thought I will not get permission and I have to cancel all the bookings, but then I got the ETA 3 days before I needed to travel.

How to Check Status of Kartarpur Corridor ETA application?

Applicants can check the “Kartarpur registration status” by visiting the same portal and clicking on Registration Status. You can see the status by entering your registration number, passport number, and date of birth.

Validity of Kartarpur Corridor ETA Visa

ETA is valid from dawn to dusk on the date of travel. Pilgrims will go in the morning and shall have to return the same day.

Here is my ETA for Kartarpur Corridor.

Immigration & Journey

I visited the Passenger Terminal Building, Dera Baba Nanak on the date of visit along with all relevant documents: a printout of the ETA and my Indian passport.

If you have an OCI card, you need to carry the OCI card along with your passport and the printout of the Kartarpur corridor ETA.

After Immigration and customs checks, everyone will proceed to do security checks and thereafter they may start their visit through the corridor.

There are electric rickshaws from the Indian immigration office to the Pakistan border and from the border to the Pakistani immigration office as well. Then there are buses from the Pakistan immigration office to the gurudwara.

The immigration process was very smooth on both the Indian and Pakistani sides. Indian or Pakistan immigration won’t stamp on your passport. They will give you Yatree cards.

So you are not gonna lose a page of your passport to entry/exit stamps.

Health Check Requirements

You need an RT-PCR test nowadays to enter, taken within 72 hours of arrival. They also ask to take polio vaccines during the initial screening since Pakistan is still battling Polio.

Cash You can Carry

Please note that there is a cash limit of Rs 11,000 per person that one can carry into the Kartarpur corridor.

You need to pay a 20 USD per person service fee at National Bank of Pakistan counter. There is a forex counter where you can exchange Indian rupees for Pakistani rupees.

When coming back, I bought some stuff from there as well as soil ( for religious purposes). I was interrogated for this at the Indian immigration and they confiscated the soil since it wasn’t allowed.

I had a wonderful time visiting Gurdwara Darbar Sahib. It is really big and beautiful. Don’t forget to visit the Langar and have some delicious food. You will meet both Pakistanis and Indians out there.

If you can, do visit it.

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About Rakesh Sharma

I am a simple guy from Delhi who likes to travel, watch cricket and kabaddi matches.

Reader Interactions

July 5, 2020 at 12:21 pm

I am a senior citizen of 67 Years residing in Delhi NCR. I would like to visit Kartarpur Sahib with my wife. Please guide how can I go there and what would be suitable time to visit there? What are the legal formalities?

July 12, 2020 at 6:44 am

Hi Rakesh. The Kartarpur Sahib is closed right now. Once it commences again, you need to get the ETA as mentioned in the article. Follow the step by step process and you can get it easily without any agents. Then you need to carry it with you when you go.

January 26, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Hi Rakesh ji, I am us citizen and I have ETA to visit Indi and No OCI . Can I visit Karstark pur sahib corridor

January 30, 2024 at 3:01 pm

It is only open to Indian citizens and OCI holders as of now.

June 7, 2021 at 12:44 pm

Very well explained. I also wish to visit.

January 24, 2022 at 7:00 am

I note that it says that you have to have an OCI. Do you know if a UK eViSA (UK tourist visa) is acceptable in place of the OCI? My wife and I have British passports (parents from India) but we usually get a eVisa fro our trip to India rather than an OCI.

January 24, 2022 at 3:20 pm

Hi Sol, I do believe you need an OCI, but feel free to give a call to the authorities and confirm.

July 1, 2022 at 10:25 am

I am a US Citizen and Indian Origin visited my Family in Lahore and hooding US Passport. I would like to visit Kartarpur by road, what kind of paper should I need?

July 1, 2022 at 1:36 pm

If you hold an OCI card, then you can carry that and your US passport.

July 9, 2022 at 6:07 pm

Very useful information and to the point.Thanks for sharing

November 23, 2022 at 1:31 pm

Me and my family want to go to Sri kartarpur sahib so tell me the right process

November 24, 2022 at 7:12 am

Hi Disha, The process has not changed much. Just make sure to apply at least 2 weeks before.

February 22, 2023 at 8:34 am

I am a Malaysian indian and holding Malaysia passport. I would like to visit Kartarpur by road, what kind of paper should I need?

February 24, 2023 at 12:02 pm

Hi Malini, You need to have the OCI. If you have it, you can go.

March 16, 2023 at 11:29 am

How to apply for ETA from MHA in the following situation:

I started fiing the form of MHA to seek ETA for visiting Kartarpur Sahib. I am an NRI living in SINGAPORE with my wife. We both have INDIAN PASSPORT. So I started filling the MHA form as INDIAN Passport holder. The form requires to enter the address as in Passport among other inputs. Address in my Indian Passport is my residential address in Singapore. My Indian passport was renewed by Indian Embassy in Singapore and they have agreed to put my residential address of Singapore in the Indian Passport as I do not have any address in India anymore. (This was done by them after seeking advice from Ministry of External Affairs in India). But the MHA form for Indian Passport holders allows the applicants to enter only India address and does not accept address other than India address. Is there any other MHA form which can be used to get ETA in the above situation. Help me how I can overcome this hurdle as me and my wife wish to visit Kartarpur sahib next month. Awaiting some idea to get my ETA from MHA.

March 18, 2023 at 7:07 am

Hi Rakesh, How to apply for ETA from MHA in the following situation:

I started filling the form of MHA to seek ETA for visiting Kartarpur Sahib. I am an NRI living in SINGAPORE with my wife. We both have INDIAN PASSPORT. So I started filling the MHA form as INDIAN Passport holder. The form requires to enter the address as in Passport among other inputs.

Address in my Indian Passport is my residential address in Singapore. My Indian passport was renewed by Indian Embassy in Singapore and they have agreed to put my residential address of Singapore in the Indian Passport as I do not have any address in India anymore. (This was done by them after seeking advice from Ministry of External Affairs in India). But the MHA form for Indian Passport holders allows the applicants to enter only India address and does not accept address other than India address. Is there any other MHA form which can be used to get ETA in the above situation. Help me how I can overcome this hurdle as me and my wife wish to visit Kartarpur sahib next month. Awaiting some idea to get my ETA from MHA.

March 20, 2023 at 10:11 pm

Hi Rajendar, Maybe you can put the address mentioned in your aadhar card or Indian driving license, but please check with them to confirm. Email: [email protected] . Call: 01724111905

March 26, 2023 at 10:49 pm

Hi Rajender I have the same issue. How have you over come this issue?

June 24, 2023 at 8:17 am

Hi Nevtaj and Rajender,

Did any of you solve this issue? Appreciate an input.

September 18, 2023 at 2:17 pm

My name is JODH Singh Jandoo.WE like to visit Kartarpur sahibNovember 2023.Kindly advice us we both are British subject and have O.C.I as well.

September 22, 2023 at 9:27 pm

If you have OCI, you can visit.

November 30, 2023 at 12:07 am

I’m OCI holder but my children are US born and they only have india visa .Will they be allowed with me as dependent.

December 5, 2023 at 5:23 pm

Not really sure about this. Are they minors? You can check with the contact info provided.

December 27, 2023 at 4:29 am

What is the contact number yes they are 9 years old ! Only have US passport with Indian visa but I’m the mom I have OCI! Will they be allowed!

December 27, 2023 at 3:33 pm

You can call 01724111905, even from abroad. Or email them [email protected] . I am not sure if they will be allowed since they don’t possess OCI card. Maybe you could apply OCI for them.

December 27, 2023 at 4:30 am

Yes they are minor

February 11, 2024 at 12:57 pm

If we Indian citizens visit Kartarpur Sahib gurudwara in Pakistan, does it affect our USA visa eligibility ? Some one told me that they had visited the gurudwara and later when they applied for US visa it was rejected.

February 16, 2024 at 9:43 am

I don’t think so.

March 7, 2024 at 5:06 pm

Hi I am Canadian citizen and right now in India ,how I can visit kartarpur sahib

March 13, 2024 at 2:14 pm

With your OCI.

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Can Indians Visit Pakistan? Full Pakistan/India VISA Guide

• Post author By Karl Rock
• Post date January 31, 2020
• 76 Comments on Can Indians Visit Pakistan? Full Pakistan/India VISA Guide
• Sticky post

Because I’ve been to Pakistan three times from India and vlogged the entire trip , a common question I get from Indians is, “How can I visit Pakistan?”

Many Indians are interested in visiting what used to be part of India. And likewise, Pakistanis are inquisitive about going to India – when I was there many asked me what India is like .

Can Indians Get Tourist VISAs for Pakistan?

The short answer is no.

Indians are only eligible for business, pilgrim or visitor visas to Pakistan.

The business visa is for business activities – for example, Royal Enfield manufacture products in Pakistan so they would get a business visa to visit the manufacturing plants.

The pilgrim visa allows Indians to visit 15 sites in Pakistan for religious tourism.

The visitor visa is granted if you have close family members or friends in Pakistan and you can only visit a maximum of 5 cities for 3 months.

While the pilgrim visa sounds easy, it’s not guaranteed, and according to reports , Pakistanis have had their requests rejected when they wanted to visit India as pilgrims. Unfortunately, visa policy is usually tit-for-tat so such denials will likely limit Indians wanting to visit Pakistan for pilgrimage too.

Why Can’t Indians or Pakistanis Get Tourist VISAs?

It’s to do with India and Pakistan’s relationship. Their relationship has been plagued by hostility and suspicion since partition. Until that changes, it’ll be difficult to travel to each other’s countries.

Both countries are paranoid about each others’ citizens being spies.

Visa agreements are reciprocal. Pakistanis can only get the same visas available to Indians. For full information, see the India-Pakistan Visa Agreement, 2012 .

Your Only Real Option to Visit Pakistan

All Indians and OCI cardholders can visit a small slice of Pakistan with the Kartarpur Corridor. I’ve written a full FAQ on how to visit Kartarpur .

Update: Many people are commenting asking how they can visit their Pakistani friends. You can try for a visitor visa, if that fails then you also have the option of meeting in the UAE.

Misinformation Online About VISAs

An Official Pakistan Government website says, “Tourist Visa: A non-extendable tourist visa valid for 14 days is issued by Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi” This is out of date, and the information is not valid anymore , we called the Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi and verified that.

Let’s hope that one day this agreement gets updated, and Indians and Pakistanis can enjoy each other’s countries! The more we meet each other and realise we are brothers, the better the relationship will become.

Can Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) get a VISA for Pakistan?

NRIs have a much easier time getting a visa for Pakistan!

They can at least apply with their reason for wanting to visit Pakistan. If the immigration officer is satisfied with the purpose of a visit, they’ll be issued an appropriate visa.

If you want to read more about that process, visit your country’s Pakistan High Commission website. Or check out the High Commission for Pakistan (Wellington) website for information on that process in New Zealand.

Who to Contact for More Information?

For travel to Pakistan from India call the High Commission for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (New Delhi) +91 11 2611 0601.

For travel to India from Pakistan call the High Commission of India (Islamabad) +92 51 2833292 or +92 51 2833282.

• Tags India , Pakistan , Tourist VISA , Travel

By Karl Rock

Karl Rock, is a Hindi speaking Kiwi ex-pat who take viewers behind the scenes of incredible India and its neighbours. He has visited every state and union territory in India, and its culturally similar neighbours – Pakistan and Bangladesh, and aims to make others fall in love with India and the subcontinent.

76 replies on “Can Indians Visit Pakistan? Full Pakistan/India VISA Guide”

Hi I Amandeep I want Pakistan visa in Indian passport ca n you tell me how I get the Pakistan visa in Indian passport

I want also😢

You can only get this if you have a friend or family member living here in Pakistan.

Friends meen ? Facebook, instagram or other social media friends is enough??

I also have a good frend in Pakistan . I want meet ….

I have friends over ther

How can apply for pakistan visa to meet my relatives in pak

Please tell how can I get visa for Pakistan if I wanted to visit my friend home

Hi Karl, you have inspired me so much. I love watching your videos. I am turning 50 shortly and going to take traveling seriously and with passion for rest of my life and your inspiring videos are one of the reason. Thank you.

Mai india jana hai

Welcome jii

Welcome brother

Hi, i got married in jodhpur,i m pakistan national i haven’t get india’s permanent citizenship yet, if i wana visit my family in Pakistan what to do?

Hey bro I m also a Pakistani and got married with a Indian girl we want to go India together. How can I get visa. Can you help me plz🙏 her want to see me with her. +923434924596 this is my WhatsApp plz help me if you can

Bhai mujhe bhi Pakistan ma krni ma india sa hu kuch ho sakta ha

I also want to marry in Pakistan how can I apply for visa please brother tell

Please help ne to go pakistan i wanna went to pakistan can u help me?

You can visit by legall manners

I m living in kashmir but i m soo curious to see visit in Pakistan very long time but due to bad relationship between india and Pakistan it’s not possible but my question is how can i go to vist Pakistan

If you have family or friends in Pakistan, you can go.

will it work if we are only social media friends?

I doubt it will work.

Sir can i have your number plz

I want to visit pakistan for meeting Hindu fimilay It’s my hearty choice to visit every place of Pakistan where hindu lives

It’s not possible to visit every where. You can choae 5 sites (cities) to visit in your single trip.

How much does it cost for visa from india to pakistan , since pakistan embasy is in delhi hoe much they charge for 4 days vsits visa and if we go by train or bus please calrify the amounts.

I want to visit Karachi Hyderabad coz I got lot of friends in there can I visit Pakistan being an Indian citizen. Plz can u help me with this My friends wedding in March.. 2021 How do I have to travel.. I already been to Pakistan in 2006 but know I want travel with my family and kids. Can I plz can u help me with this..

Hi. I’m talking to a guy online. He was born in India and he has gotten Canadian PR but still has an indian passport. I live in Pakistan and he wants to visit me in on a visitor visa. Would that be possible? 🙁 Please help!! 🙁

Probably not. He needs Canadian passport

Can any indian go for study in pakistan

I don’t think there’s a study visa. Call the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi and ask.

Me Indian m also want to go Pakistan mt wd my best frmd can any one help me 🙏please

I’m an Indian citizen lives in Dubai and want to visit Pakistan I’ve got friends there, what will be the procedures?

Can I go Pakistani 😊

i am from pakistan but now in dubai.and my friend in dubai but she belong to india.so i want to invite my friend in pakistan for marriage with me so how i apply pakisatni vizt visa for my girl friend.then she come and we get marriage

I was refused a visa to Pakistan in 1970. I am Indian origin and never lived in india and dont have Indian citizenship. I finally took an Afgan Airlines flight from Amritsar to Kabul. The pland had problems and had to land at Rawalpindi. We were there for about 8 hours. The Indians were kept at the transit hall with guards but 2 policemen took me on a tour and got me food. I had a very nice time at the airport One of the first question they asked me was if I was Muslim but i was born and grew up in a Muslim country, Malaysia. They called me brother.

Yr please koi to mujhe Pakistan jana koi rasta bata do, dill da mamla hai 😭

Get invitation from your “dil ka mamla” and also get info from Pakistani embessy or cuonsul the papers you need from your Pakistani dil ka mamla to get Visa.I hope it will help you.

Ayesha bahen kya kr skte h kchh bhi nahi. Meri bhi girlfriend Islamabad se thi aur m India se, mne bhot koshish ki lekin itni zyada political tension ki wjah se nahi ja ska, aur is year April me uski shadi uske cousin se ho gyi. I lost her just because of border and politics 😭😭😭😭😭😭

How to apply for katasraj temple I’m a santani want to visit my historical temple

Namaste Shubham. Happy Diwali. Every year a group of pilgrims go there from India. Please search news articles for this and call whoever is organising the tours.

Same here😢😢

Hi I am Tejasvi virdhi I am from India and I am very much fascinated by Pakistani culture ,their language and the beautiful town Murre on the outskirts of Islamabad ….Though I have never visited Pakistan but still I am very much fascinated…I really want to visit Pakistan and the beautiful Pakistani town Murre but I don’t know if I will ever be able to visit it because of the legal tensions between the two countries

I hope you can visit one day 🙏

Hello kral rock, my best friend is an indian girl we worked together in dubai . She still in dubai she wants to visit to Pakistan, can she visit in Pakistan?

It’s unlikely. Call the Pakistan Embassy in Dubai and ask.

Hello karl, iam working in Saudi Arabia , basically from India, my boyfriend is from Pakistan , we worked together here before, so I want to visit Pakistan, would that be possible?? Plzz help

Hi Tarar. If you have an Indian passport then it’s probably not possible. But contact the Pakistan High Commission (New Delhi) and ask them for a definite answer https://pakhcnewdelhi.org.pk/contact-us/ . Good luck.

Hi Karl, I like all the videos and you too, Can you vlog beautiful places in New Zealand, please…Love from Tamil Nadu, somewhere in a village.

Hi, Karl, I like all the video and including you to buddy. Can you do a vlog in New Zealand’s heavenly places and I like to tour European countries such as London, Canada, Switzerland and New Zealand countryside. Love from Tamilnadu, somewhere in a small village. I love you brother

Hi my wife family is in Pakistan i want to take my wife and my mother in law to Pakistan it’s that possible

Hi Muhammad, aapko VISA mil jana chahiye kyouki aapka pariwar Pakistani mein hai. Contact Pakistan High Commission (Delhi) for more help +91 11 2611 0601.

I’m an Indian and I want to visit the Shrine of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar(R.A) but it is not in the list of 15 pilgrimage places of Pakistan. Is there any other way to visit Shrine of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar(R.A) from India?

Not as far as I know sorry

I’m British Indian (ethnically Sindhi–my dad was born in Karachi pre-Partition). I should be good yeah?

Yup. Apply via your local Pakistan High Commission. If they act funny tell them about your link back to Pakistan via family.

Hi Karl,can Indian marry a Pakistani?

Hi Khansan, yes, it’s possible. But I don’t know how. Try find out how Sania Mirza did it, she married a Pakistani. I’m sure it’d be possible to meet and marry in another country like Dubai.

I just love the beauty of Pakistan and Afghanistan and i am a traveller i want to visit Pakistan’s Islamabad one day ..Can anyone tell me how can i go there ?If i dont get visa then any other option tht can help me visit Pakistan?And also i want to visit the historic cities of pakistan where India and pakistan ‘s ancient history is stored?can anyone help me ?

I want to visit pakistan beacouse my love is there and I want to marry her I really love her she also loves me wants marry me, so how can I go there for marry her please tell me any body help me …😢😢😢

I want to go Pakistan one of my biggest dream I have friends over there if possible then rlp my comment

I want to go to Pakistan coz it’s my fantasy to visit Pakistan once in my life. I have friends over and I have my love too . If possible then please help out in finding ways to visit pak

Is there any “Friends to rent to get visa” Website in Pakistan or in India? If the politicians are not going to do their work, than we, the ppl, have to do it.

I wanna love to visit Pakistan.

Love from Indian Punjab

Hey Manpreet. Pakistan will check and they will likely interview that person too. I know a few people whose sponsors have been interviewed. Don’t risk it.

Yes it could be possible if he has Canada visa or passport he can apply for a tourist visa

hi i just want to share my experience. i’m indian born canadian. in the past it was possible to visit both countries – when i was 18 and travelled to india on own for the first time – my ticket to bombay was with PIA and i had a stopover in karachi! anyways both countries are very petty and any restriction one place the other does the same. pakistani origin people (even if born in the US/Canada with foreign passports) are not allowed in india and even i had to show all my canadian passports for the past 50 years to prove i’m not pakistani and get an indian visa (i’m muslim). after watching all of karl’s pakistan videos i’m planning a trip to pakistan this september and have run into issues getting a visa because i’m indian born! i need to find a sponsor in pakistan who will send me a notarized letter of invitation and a copy of their shinaqti card before the embassy will give me a visa (thankfully i have some friends here who will get their relatives to do this) for indian passport holders it’s impossible to get a pakistani visitor visa unless they are sikh pilgrims or academics attending a conference

I would like to visit Pakistan, I live in Germany and have traveled to many Asian countries to my astonishment is it for international air travel still required that you need 2 Covid vaccinations to enter the country does anyone know more?

Can I get a visa to visit my ancestral village in Pakistan left behind during partition? Do I need to be sponsored by a facilitator organisation for this purpose such as an NGO?

Hey, the only way I know is to get proof of your ancestry and go to a Pakistan High Commission and show them and tell them the reasons you want to visit. If you’re in contact with family there it maybe be easier. There’s a family visa type you should look up on their visa website. Best of luck.

Dear Karl, Good informative article. Basically if you are a citizen (and passport holder) of these two contries then chance of visiting each other is almost nil and with current tensions and Pakistan’s financial situation it has become harder. I am Indian born but naturalized citizen of the USA and I had no problem in getting the visa. I went for the darshan of Ma Hinglaj (Nani Bibi) in 2006 and I was treated like a prince by everyone. You can read about this at http://offroadpakistan.com/2011/06/jay-shahs-pilgramage-to-mata-hinglaj/ The PK High commision in ~2009 told me that if there is a group and want to go to just one place of pilgrimage that is not on the original agreement of pilgrimage visa https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protocol_on_Visits_to_Religious_Shrines_1974 then they may consider. But, in general, people (even Pakistanis are concerened about safety in the Northwest Frontier – Balochistan.

Hope and pray that the peace prevails between the two countries soon and both propser. Love Jay Shah

Congrats bro. That must’ve been an incredible experience. Even I haven’t been there because Balochistan requires more permissions these days. Thanks for commenting.

I have pak pilgrimage visa for 15 days from canada .so should i report to police in pak while visit

Call the Embassy that issued you the visa and ask what you have to do.

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Law Firm in India

• Legal Articles

Rules & Restrictions for OCI Card Holders

February 23, 2024 | NRI Services Read in this piece about the rules and restrictions for OCI Card Holders in effect since March 2021.

Changes at a Glance

• Most Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders do not need to have their OCI cards reissued every time they get a new passport.
• Those having OCI cards issued before the cardholder was 20 years old, on the other hand, only need to get a new OCI card once when they get a new passport after turning 20.
• There are new requirements for OCI cardholders who are under the age of 20 to notify the government when they receive a new passport, as well as for OCI cardholders who are married to Indian nationals or other OCI cardholders.
• The government's eased OCI card re-issuance requirements decrease the administrative burden of needing to apply for a new OCI card and show the government's flexible attitude in the wake of recent restrictions for OCI card holders.

Overseas Citizen of India

People eligible to be registered as oci, application for oci card.

• PIOs who have moved from India and earned citizenship in a foreign nation other than Pakistan or Bangladesh are eligible for Overseas Citizenship of India.
• A visa that allows you to visit India multiple times and for multiple purposes for the rest of your life.
• No need to report to the police for the duration of your stay in India.
• Financial, economic, and educational parity with NRIs, save in the purchase of agricultural or plantation lands, and
• A person who has been registered as an OCI for five years and has lived in India for one year out of the five years prior to filing the application is eligible to apply for Indian citizenship under section 5(1) (g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Benefits of OCI

The following benefits are not available to oci card holders:, change in rules, key changes introduced.

• research activities;
• missionary / Tabligh / mountaineering / journalistic activities;
• internships or employment with any India-based, foreign diplomatic missions or foreign government organisations; and
• visits to any areas or places notified as protected / restricted / prohibited space by the Central Government (or by any relevant authority).
• Air costs inside India; and
• Entry fees for museums, national parks, national monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, and historical sites in India.
• inter-country adoption of India born children (subject to adherence and compliance with adoption procedure laid down under applicable laws and regulations);
• appearing for the all-India entrance examinations, such as, JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) Advanced and Mains, NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), or other tests that makes an OCI card holder eligible for admission to any NRI seat or any supernumerary seat (to clarify, OCI cardholders are not eligible to get admission for seats reserved exclusively for Indian citizens);
• purchase or sale of immovable properties, except agricultural land, farmhouses, or plantation properties; and
• pursuing specific profession of a doctor, dentist, nurse and pharmacist, lawyer, architect, or a chartered accountant in India (subject to stipulations under applicable laws and regulations).
• Rights and privileges not covered by any notification issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999; educational, economic, or
• financial fields or aspects not categorically listed in the OCI Notification 2021;
• rights and privileges not covered by any notification issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 (FEMA).

Pan/Adhaar Card Linking For NRI/OCI

• Current residents of the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Meghalaya.
• Non-Resident Indians as defined by the Income Tax Act, 1961.
• Individuals aged equal to or above anytime during the previous year.
• Non-Indian citizens.

Old Passport Not Required for Travel to India

Impact on employment opportunities, restrictions on dual citizenship, provisions for people registered as poi, registration and reporting requirements of oci card holders.

• Definition of Resolution plan will now include provisions for corporate restructuring: The amendment act has inserted an explanation in the definition of resolution plan to clarify that a resolution plan that proposes the insolvency resolution of a corporate debtor may include the provisions for corporate restructuring, including by way of merger, amalgamation and demerger.
• NCLT will have to record reasons for delay in discarding an application for initiation of CIRP: As per the Code, the NCLT must dispose of an application for initiation of CIRP within a period of 14 days from the receipt of application. However, there have been cases when the NCLT has taken more than 14 days to make a decision on the application. Therefore, to ensure speedy disposal and value maximization of the corporate debtor's assets, a proviso has been added which requires that NCLT to record its reasons in writing in case an application is not disposed within 14 days.
• Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process to be concluded within 330 days: Earlier, the IBC demanded completion of CIRP within 180 days including a one-time extension of 90 days. However, many a times the Courts have allowed removal of certain periods, for instance, time consumed in litigation, from the compulsory completion period resulting in a lot of unresolved CIRPs well beyond the time duration allowed in the IBC. The Amendment act makes it compulsory for a CIRP to be completed within 330 days including any extension of time granted and time taken under legal proceedings. It further states that any pending CIRPs that have been going on for over 330 days should be completed within 90 days from the date of commencement of the Amendment Act.
• Voting by authorised representative representing a class of financial creditors: To avoid any confusion and facilitate decision making in the Committee of Creditors, especially in cases where financial creditors are a large group, the Amendment Act provides that an authorized representative representing a class of financial creditors shall vote on behalf of all the financial creditors he/she represents in accordance with the decision approved by more than 50% of such financial creditors. This principle however would not be applicable in case of voting for withdrawal of CIRP.
• Amount payable to functional creditors and disagreeing financial creditors: The Amendment Act provides that payment of debts of operational creditors shall be the higher of
• the amount to be paid to these creditors at the time of liquidation of the corporate debtor u/s 53 or
• the amount that would have been paid to such creditors, if the amount to be distributed under the resolution plan had been distributed in accordance of priority as mentioned u/s 53 (1)
• NCLT has not approved or rejected a resolution plan
• an appeal is pending at the Supreme Court or at the NCLAT (National Company Law Appellate Tribunal)
• a lawsuit has been launched in a court challenging the decision of NCLT in relation to a resolution plan
• Committee of Creditors (COC) to contemplate way of distribution submitted in the resolution plan: Besides the current need of approval of resolution plan after keeping in mind the practicality and acceptability of the resolution plan, the amendment act requires that the CoC consider the manner of distribution proposed in the resolution plan by taking into account the order of priority amongst creditors, as prescribed u/s 53 (1) relating to liquidation waterfall, including the priority and value of security interest of a secured creditor.
• NCLT approved resolution plan will be binding on the Central Government, State Government or any local authority to whom corporate debtor owes a statutory debt: As per the Code, the approved resolution plan was only binding on the corporate debtor and its employees, creditors, members, guarantors and other stakeholders included in the resolution plan resulting in instances where the Government used to follow up for the balance dues after the said approval of resolution plan. The Amendment Act has now modified Section 31(1) to illuminate that any NCLT approved resolution plan will be binding on the Central Government, State Government and any local authority to whom a corporate debtor owes a debt in respect of payment of dues arising under any law.
• Liquidation after setting up the Committee of Creditors (COC): The Amendment Act simplifies by way of an explanation, u/s 33(2) which covers liquidation, that the COC may decide to liquidate the corporate debtor any time after the setting-up of the COC until the confirmation of the resolution plan, including at any time before the development of the information memorandum. This change is pertinent as there have been cases where NCLTs have demanded that a liquidation order may be passed only after failure of the CIRP even though an early liquidation would have resulted in value maximization.

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Visa for Indian Nationals

Visa policy, visa categories, visa application fee, visa policy for afghanistan, e-visa (online visa), verify visa, apply exit permit, visa for indians, basic requirements.

All Indians wishing to visit Pakistan must obtain a valid visa. The basic requirements for obtaining a visa are as follows:-

• Valid passport: The passport should be valid for at least one year.
• Visa application form duly filled in.
• Visa Application forms for getting visa’s either through the Interior Division or Pakistan Mission abroad.

The fee at present is Rs.15/- inclusive of all charges for issuance, extension or transit visas.

For business visa , a letter from the company/organization in Pakistan sponsoring the applicant stating the purpose of visit is required.

Visa fee is realized through cash on the visa counter or through bank challan.

Note: The Embassies/High Commissions for Pakistan deal with visa matters on all the working days of the week (Monday to Friday). While in Gulf countries, the Pakistani Missions remain open from Saturday to Wednesday. None of the Missions is, however, open on any of the Gazetted holidays of the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Types of Visas

The following types of visas are granted to the resident/Non-resident Indian by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan:-

Visitor Visa

Visitors visa are issued to Indian Nationals to meet relatives, friends or for any other legitimate purpose. This type of visa is also issued to bonafide Indian businessmen for six months with three entries.

Transit Visa

Transit visa valid for up to two entries for stay in the city/port of entry for 72 hours issued to Indian nationals, proceeding to Indian by air or sea through Pakistan.

Tourist Visa

A non-extendable tourist visa valid for 14 days is issued by Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi through approved tour operators/travel agents.

Check Posts

Following are the designated entry/exit check posts for Indian nationals, coming to Pakistan:-

• By Air Karachi/Lahore/Islamabad
• By Sea Karachi
• By Road Wagha

Instructions for Obtaining Pakistani Visa

• Please fill in the visa Application Form in CAPITAL LETTERS (Four copies). No column to be left blank.
• Please fill in the Computer Performa in CAPITAL LETTERS (Four Copies).
• Visa fee of Rs.15/- should be deposited in cash and receipt obtained. Passport will be returned on presentation of receipt. The fee is non-refundable.
• Two copies of the form will be returned to the applicant with visa. One each should be handed over to Pakistan Immigration Officer on arrival and Police Registration Office.
• The applicant should be in possession of US $45 or equivalent in Foreign Exchange at the time of entry.
• The visitors may enter Pakistan by Air, Train, Road. but the point of exit and mode of travel for their return journey will remain the same. However, the persons Entering By Air may exit from different Airport with Prior permission.
• The visitors must Repot for Police Registration within 24 hours of entry in Pakistan and prior to Departure/Arrival at each subsequent place of visit in Pakistan.
• Provide copy of N.I.C of the sponsor of Indian National(s).
• Provide copy of the Passport of the applicant(s).
• Valid Passport. The Passport should be valid for at least one year.

Download Forms

• Application by an Indian National(s) for extension of visa/ stay and re-entry visa in Pakistan.
• Application by an Indian National for Police registration beyond 24 hours Pakistan.
• Application by an Indian National for permission for change of route.
• Application for Indian National(s) (Additional Place(s) Endorsement.

Further Assistance

For more information please contact:

Last modified: 4 October 2023 10:39 am.

Copyright © 2024 Directorate General of Immigration & Passports, Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan.

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• Home › Consular Services › OCI Scheme

OCI Scheme Based on the recommendations of the High Level committee on Indian Diaspora, the Government of India decided to grant Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) commonly known as 'Dual Citizenship'.  Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) of certain category who migrated from India and acquired citizenship of a foreign country other than Pakistan and Bangladesh, are eligible for grant of OCI as long as their home countries allow dual citizenship in some form or the other under their local laws.

A person registered as OCI is eligible to apply for grant of Indian citizenship under section 5(1)(g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955 if he/she is registered as OCI for five years and has been residing in India for one year out of the five years before making the application. Eligibility Criteria A foreign national, who was eligible to become citizen of India on 26.01.1950 or was a citizen of India on or at any time after 26.01.1950 or belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15.08.1947 and his/her children and grandchildren, provided his/her country of citizenship allows dual citizenship in some form or other under the local laws, is eligible for registration as Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Minor children of such person are also eligible for OCI. However, if the applicant had ever been a citizen of Pakistan or Bangladesh, he/she will not be eligible for OCI. If both parents hold Indian nationality, minor children are not eligible for OCI card.

Benefits of OCI Following benefits will accrue to OCI:

• A multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa for visiting India.
• Exemption from registration with local police authority for any length of stay in India.
• Parity with Non-resident Indians (NRIs) in respect of economic, financial and educational fields except in relation to acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.

Any other benefits to OCIs will be notified by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) under Section 7B (1) of the Citizenship Act, 1955.

The OCI is not entitled to vote, be a member of Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council or Parliament, cannot hold constitutional posts such as President, Vice President, Judge of Supreme Court or High Court etc. and he/she cannot normally hold employment in the Government. Procedure  of OCI Registration Applicant is required to fill an on-line registration form,  1.  Application Form:  To fill up on-line registration form please visit MHA website  https://ociservices.gov.in/ . Part A has to be filled up  on -line  for each applicant of the family and Part B is common to all applicants of the family upto a maximum of four. Separate applications required for any other additional members. After submission of  Part A online , a copy of Part A with an online registration number will be printed along with Part B of application form. Details in Part B can be typed or hand written in BLOCK LETTERS. In case the space provided is not sufficient, additional sheets may be used for providing requisite details. No column is to be left unanswered. Two sets of application form complete in all respects along with relevant enclosures must be submitted. 2.  Signature:  Full signature in the box should be provided in case of major and thumb impression (left hand thumb for male and right hand thumb for female) or signature in case of minor (Under 18 years). 3.  Photographs:  Two photographs (35mm X 35mm) should be pasted at the place provided on the application and two additional photographs must be attached in small envelope separately. Photographs should be of light colour background (not white) with front pose, both shoulders and both ears visible. 4.  List of enclosures:  Enclosures should be 2 sets of photocopies of requisite documents and each page self-attested by the applicant. For minors the Parent must self-attest the photocopies. When signing on the photocopies of the documents please mention as  "Self Attested" and sign with name & date .

• Photocopies of the photo page of valid Passport. If the applicant is holding any other foreign passport, photocopy of the first page, photo page, all observation pages of the passport and ID card are required.
• Photocopy of the first page, photo page, last page and other pages having any observations of valid/cancelled Indian passport, if any.
• Evidence of self or parents or grandparents, (a) being eligible to become a citizen of India at the time of commencement of the Constitution i.e. on 26th January, 1950; or (b) belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947; or (c) being citizen of India on or after 26th January, 1950.

These could be: (i)   Copy of the passport; or (ii)  Copy of the domicile certificate issued by the Competent Authority ; or (iii) Any other proof.

• Marriage certificate where required.
• Birth certificate.
• Fees: Pak Rs. 43,200 + 500 (service charges)
• Total fees for fresh OIC card: PKR 43700/-

If the supporting documents are not satisfactory applicant will be asked to provide more documentary evidence. Cancellation of OCI Registration If it has been found that the registration as an OCI was obtained by means of fraud, false representation or concealment of any material fact or the registered OCI has shown disaffection towards the Constitution of India or comes under any of the provisions of section 7D of the Citizenship Act, the registration of such person will not only be cancelled forthwith but he/she will also be blacklisted for visiting India.

PIO Card/Conversion of PIO to OCI

As of January 9, 2015, the PIO card scheme is no longer in effect and is now merged with the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card scheme. Therefore, it is necessary upon PIO Card holders to obtain machine readable OCI cards in lieu of handwritten valid PIO Cards. The Indian Immigration Authorities will continue to consider valid PIO Cards for entry/exit into/from India till 31 st December, 2021 along with foreign passport.

Revised guidelines on Re-issuance of OCI cards due to Issuance of new foreign passports to OCI cardholders:

• Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner upto20 years of age and once after completing 50 years age has been dispensed.
• OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued upon completing 20 years of age.
• An OCI card holder may upload a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo on the online system under OCI Miscellaneous Services each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. These documents may be uploaded by the OCI card holder within three months of receipt of the new passport. This service will be provided on gratis basis.
• In the case of those who have been registered as OCI cardholder as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI card holder under section 7A(1) (d) of The Citizenship Act,1955, the OCI cardholder shall upload a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo on the online system under OCI Miscellaneous Services each time a new passport is issued. In such cases, the OCI card holder and his/her Indian spouse or OCI cardholder spouse will have to give a declaration that their marriage is still subsisting. Copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholders spouse shall also be uploaded in such cases. These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder foreigner spouse within three months of receipt of his/her new passport. This service will be provided on gratis basis.
• Immediately on uploading of the documents mentioned in (iii) and (iv) above, an email will be auto sent by the system to the OCI cardholder confirming that the documents have been successfully uploaded.
• There will be no restriction on the OCI cardholder to travel to/ from India during the period from the date of issue of new passport till the date of final acknowledgement of his/ her documents in the online system.

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Address: High Commission of India, G-5, Diplomatic Enclave, Islamabad, Pakistan

Tel : (+92) 51-2833251-53, Fax : (+92) 51-2833290 / 2833286 / 2833254, Email : [email protected]

High Commission Working Hours: 09.00 to 17.30 Hrs (Monday to Friday)

Consular Working Hours: 09.00 to 17.30 Hrs (Monday to Friday)

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Instructions For Filling Application Form

Applicants applying for oci-card, please read.

Please fill the fields in BLOCK LETTERS.

A person who has not attained the age of 18 years is considered as minor. In case of minor who cannot sign, his/her left thumb impression may be placed in the signature box. Parents should not sign on the behalf of the children.

Signature/Thumb impression should be confined to the prescribed box. In case of minor applicants, parents should NOT sign in the box.

Photograph to be affixed on the application should be a square shape of size not less than 51*51mm (with 80% coverage of face). It should have plain light color background (not white) without the border with front view of person's head and shoulders showing the full face in middle of the photograph. It should not be stapled and not have any signature.

Photographs that do not conform to these standards will be rejected and may cause a delay in processing the applications. Please see standards of acceptable photographs as Photo Link.

If there are any objections while processing the applications, the same will be displayed on the Online Status Enquiry. Please follow the instructions and send requisite documents to the Indian Mission/ Office where you have applied quoting the File (or Acknowledgement) Number.

After successful registration, copy of Part A and Part B with an online registration number will be printed. Application form on Parts A and B, complete in all respects, along with all relevant enclosures may be submitted to the appropriate office.

Enclosures to be attached with the application:

In case of applications for registration as Overseas Citizen of India Cardholder in lieu of PIO card, only copies of the following documents to be attached:-

Valid passport of the applicant

Valid PIO card of the applicant.

In case of fresh application for registration as OCI Cardholder, following documents are to be attached:-

Proof of present citizenship – Copy of present valid passport (applicable in all cases), with validity of minimum 6 months at the time of submission of application.

In case application is submitted in India, copy of any type of Visa (other than Missionary Visa, Tourist Visa and Mountaineering Visa)/ Residential Permit with 3 months validity as on the date of application.

Evidence of self or parents or grandparents or great grandparents being a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after the commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950 or being eligible to become a citizen of India at the time of commencement of the Constitution i.e. 26.01.1950 or belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947:- These could be:

Copy of the Indian Passport; or

Copy of the Domicile Certificate issued by the Competent Authority; or

Copy of Nativity Certificate from the Competent Authority; or

OCI Card/ PIO card of parents/ spouse along with the documents upon which the OCI/ PIO card was issued; or

Any other proof substantiating the request. Usually applicant does submit a certificate of residence or place of birth of self/parents/grandparents from First Class Magistrate/District Magistrate (DM) of the concerned place.

Evidence of relationship as parent/grandparent/ great grandparent, if their Indian origin is claimed as basis for registration as OCI Cardholder: The document of relationship could be “Birth Certificate” issued from competent authority mentioning both parents’ name. In case the birth certificate is issued by a foreign authority, it is to be Apostilled or endorsed by the concerned Indian Mission abroad.

In case of minor child whose both parents are citizens of India or one of the parents is a citizen of India:

Copy of child’s birth certificate

Copy of Indian passport of the parents / one of the parents or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the parents/ one of the parents or any other proof substantiating the status of the parents/ one of the parents as being Indian citizen(s).

If the parents are divorced, court order of dissolution of marriage, which specifically mentions that the legal custody of the child is with the parent who is applying for the OCI card.

Evidence as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI Cardholder:

Registered marriage certificate; indicating that the marriage has taken place before 2 years on the date of application.

In the case of spouse of an Indian citizen - Copy of the Indian Passport of the spouse or copy of the Domicile Certificate or Nativity Certificate issued by the Competent Authority in respect of the Indian spouse or any other proof substantiating the status of the spouse as being an Indian citizen

In the case of spouse of an OCI Cardholder - Copy of the present valid Passport of the spouse and copy of the OCI Card of the spouse and copies of the documents upon which the OCI Card was issued to the spouse.

In case of applications submitted to the Indian Mission/ Post abroad, OCI registration fee of US$ 275 (US$ 100 for conversion of PIO to OCI card) for each application or equivalent amount in local currency to be paid by way of Demand Draft (till online payment facility is introduced).

In case of applications submitted in India, a fee of Rs.15,000/- (Rs. 5500/- for conversion of PIO to OCI card) by way of Demand Draft drawn in favour of “Pay and Accounts Officer (Secretariat), Ministry of Home Affairs payable at New Delhi (till online payment facility is introduced).

The documents enclosed with the application should be self attested.

This form when completed should be submitted in original along with photograph, signature and requisite documents.

After submission of the complete application online including documents, photograph and signature, the applicants are required to visit their jurisdictional FRRO/ Mission/ Post with the originals of the supporting documents uploaded with online application for prior verification.

In India to the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO), Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Amritsar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Lucknow, Kochi, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) , Ahmedabad and Goa.

Outside India, to the Indian Mission/Post having jurisdiction over the country of which the applicant is a citizen or if he/she is not living the country of his/her citizenship, to the Indian Mission/Post having jurisdiction over the country of which the applicant is ordinarily resident.

After receipt of application in concerned office, a File (or Acknowledgement) Number would be issued to the applicant by way of acknowledgement

The applicant can verify the status of his/her application online by quoting the online Registration Number or File (or Acknowledgement) Number.

Please contact Mission/Office where you have applied for OCI registration after 10 days from the date of dispatch of documents from Delhi or any day after receipt of documents at the Mission/Office whichever is earlier. Please produce your passports(s) and PIO card, if applicable, in person/through authorized person for affixing OCI visa sticker and issuance of registration certificate. In case of applications filled in India with FRRO, applicants should go to the FRRO office in person/through authorized person.

For collection of OCI document, the applicant is required to be present at the concerned Indian Mission / FRRO Office in person or he/she can send a duly authorized person, along with his/her passport & PIO card (if any) and the original documents for which self-attested copies were attached at the time of submitting application, for verification purposes.

Please check that all fields in the form are filled in and all necessary enclosures are attached before submission of the form to Indian Mission/Post abroad or FRRO in India.

Concealment of any material fact or false representation etc. will lead to cancellation of registration as Overseas Citizen of India (Please refer to section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955).

For Re-print this application, visit : https://ociservices.gov.in

For status Enquiry about your application, visit : https://ociservices.gov.in

Applicants applying for OCI-Card, please note-

It is mandatory to upload Applicant's image and Applicant's signature image during OCI-Registration.

Both the images must be in jpeg or jpg format, with max size 1MB.

• The height and width of the Applicant Photo must be equal.
• The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 200 pixels (height).
• The maximum dimensions are 3500 pixels (width) x 3500 pixels (height).
• The height and width of the Signature Photo must have aspect ratio 1:3
• The minimum dimensions are 200 pixels (width) x 67 pixels (height).
• The maximum dimensions are 3500 pixels (width) x 2500 pixels (height).

Kindly be ready with both these images before starting the registration process.

Applicants applying for Miscellaneous Services, please read

• To avail Miscellaneous Service, you must be an existing OCI Card Holder

In case the existing OCI card holder wishes to update the latest information about his latest passport, Change in address/Occupation/Contact details, the OCI card holder can select the option as given below and upload the latest photograph and requisite documents. These details shall be updated into the OCI system records and an acknowledgement shall be shared with OCI card holder on his/her registered email ID. The services under these categories are gratis in nature:

In case issuance of new Passport Details (each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age)

In case change in address/occupation/contact details.

As per latest MHA guidelines, The re-issuance of new OCI card will be applicable for following categories:

In case of issuance of new passport (once a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age.)

In case of change of personal particulars viz. name, father's name, nationality etc.

In case of loss/damage of OCI registration certificate.

• In case the existing OCI card holder wishes to apply for re-issuance of OCI Card, application form, complete in all respects, along with all relevant enclosures and requisite fee may be submitted to the Indian Mission/Post/Office in whose jurisdiction the applicant is ordinarily residing irrespective of the fact whether the same Indian Mission/Post/Office has issued the original OCI documents or not.

In case the existing OCI card holder wishes to update/upload the latest information about his latest passport, Change in address/Occupation/Contact details, the OCI card holder can select the option/(s) as given below and upload the latest photograph and requisite documents. These details shall be updated into the OCI system records and an acknowledgement shall be shared with OCI card holder on his/her registered email ID. The services under these categories are gratis in nature.

Photograph be a square shape and it should have plain light color background (not white) without the border with front view of person's head and shoulders showing the full face in middle of the photograph. It should not be stapled and not have any signature.

Please contact Mission/Office where you have applied for OCI registration after 10 days from the date of dispatch of documents from Delhi or any day after receipt of documents at the Mission/Office whichever is earlier. Please produce your passports(s) and PIO card, if applicable, in person/through authorized person for affixing OCI visa sticker and issuance of registration certificate. In case of applications filed in India with FRRO, applicants should go to the FRRO office in person/through authorized person

In case application is submitted in India, copy of any type of Visa (other than Missionary Visa and Mountaineering Visa)/ Residential Permit with 3 months validity as on the date of application.

Please contact Mission/Office where you have applied for OCI registration after 10 days from the date of dispatch of documents from Delhi or any day after receipt of documents at the Mission/Office whichever is earlier. Please produce your passports(s) and PIO card, if applicable, in person/through authorized person for affixing OCI visa sticker and issuance of registration certificate. In case of applications filed in India with FRRO, applicants should go to the FRRO office in person/through authorized person.

Applicants applying for Miscellaneous Services, please note-

There will be re-issue of OCI card only once i.e. when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age. This will be as per the existing system of re-issue of OCI cards under OCI Misc. services.

Provision for uploading of a copy of the new passport containing the photo and also a latest photo on the online system each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.

In the case of those who have been registered as OCI card holder as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI card holder, provision for uploading a copy of the new passport containing the photo and also a latest photo on the online system each time a new passport is issued, along with the following:-

A declaration signed by the OCI card holder and his/ her Indian spouse or OCI card holder spouse to the effect that their marriage is still subsisting.

In case the OCI card holder is the spouse of an Indian citizen, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse.

In case the OCI card holder is the spouse of an OCI card holder, passport & OCI card of the OCI card holder spouse.

OCI card holder may upload the documents within 3 months of issue of new passport. This service will be on gratis basis. A simple form along with provision for uploading these documents to be provided.

On uploading of the documents as at (2) & (3) above, an auto email to be sent by the system to the OCI card holder confirming that the documents have been successfully uploaded.

After verification of the uploaded details by concerned Indian mission/FRRO, an acknowledgement through email to be automatically sent to the OCI card holder informing “Updated details have been taken on record”.

It is mandatory to upload Applicant's image and Applicant's signature image during OCI-Registration

Both the images must be in jpeg or jpg format, with max size 500kb.

Applicants applying for Special Permission, please read

To apply for special permission for any of the activity, you must be an existing OCI Card Holder.

You may apply for the special permission of any one of the activities listed below:

To undertake research;

To undertake any Missionary or Tabligh or Mountaineering or Journalistic activities;

To undertake internship in any foreign Diplomatic Missions or foreign Government organisations in India or to take up employment in any foreign Diplomatic Missions in India;

To visit any place which falls within the Protected or Restricted or prohibited areas as notified by the Central Government or competent authority;

Photograph should be a square shape with 80% coverage of face. It should have plain light color background (not white) without the border with front view of person's head and shoulders showing the full face in middle of the photograph. It should not be stapled and not have any signature.

The Overseas Citizen of India Card holder applying for permission for activities the following documents need to be uploaded ;

For Research Activities-

Copy of OCI Card

Copy of Passport (in case of dual nationality, both passports)

Copy of admission letter received from university/ institute

Bonafide certificate from the institute mentioning period of research

Copy of synopsis of research papers

Duly certified Form 'G'

Evidence of financial resources

Residence proof

Recent photograph

Recent Signature

Undertaking from the applicant:

For Mountaineering Activities-

Copy of permission from Indian Mountaineering Foundation

Copy of expedition details

PAP/ RAP permission, if any

For Missionary work-

Copy of sponsorship from institution/ organization

For internship/ employment-

Contract / sponsorship of Internship/ Employment

For Tabligh work-

For journalistic activities-

Copy of contract/ sponsorship with organization

Documents related to designation in media platform

Documentary Clearance Form along with required documents as per format prescribed on MEA's website www.mea.gov.in (if applicable)

Undertaking for making documentary as per format prescribed on MEA's website www.mea.gov.in (if applicable)

For Visit Protected or Restricted or prohibited areas as notified by the government: please visit https://indianfrro.gov.in/ for further details.

Undertaking from the applicant is as given below:

"I undertake that I will not engage in an prohibited activity other than the one for which I have been permitteyd. Further, I understand that if I violate any of the provisions of the Citizenship Act, 1955 or provisions of any other law or any law for time being in force as may be specified by Government, my OCI registration will not only be cancelled but also I shall be prosecuted as per law of the land."

Once the application is submitted by OCI Card holder, acknowledgment will be sent to him on e-mail and link will be provided to check status of application.

As soon as permission is granted by concerned Indian mission or Indian FRRO, the status will be shared with the applicant on e-mail

For Status Enquiry about your application, visit : https://ociservices.gov.in

Applicants applying for Permission, please note-

It is mandatory to upload Applicant's photograph and Applicant's signature image during OCI-Registration.

The maximum dimensions are 1500 pixels (width) x 1500 pixels (height).

Overseas Citizen Of India Cardholder

All valid pio-card holders may now register to become oci-card holder..

For more details click here

New OCI Registration

Before you start.

• Check your eligibility before you start your registration.
• If you are already an OCI Card Holder, kindly use OCI Miscellaneous Services.
• If you are an PIO Card Holder, kindly register through OCI Registration (In Lieu Of Valid PIO-Card).
• If you are an PIO Card Holder and card is in lost state, kindly register through OCI Registration (In Lieu Of Lost PIO-Card).
• To reprint your already registered application, kindly use 'Re-Print Submitted Application' service.
• In case of urgent travel, applicants may apply for appropriate visa.

Prerequisites

• Kindly be ready with Applicant's image and Applicant's signature image (Max size 1MB).
• Kindly be ready with supporting documents in PDF format (Max size 1000kb).

After Registration

• After submission of online application, a copy of the application form will be printed with an Online Registration Number.
• Application form, complete in all respects, along with all relevant enclosures and requisite fee may be submitted to the Indian Mission/Post/Office in whose jurisdiction the applicant is ordinarily residing irrespective of the fact whether the same Indian Mission/Post/Office has issued the original OCI documents or not.

OCI Registration (In Lieu Of Valid PIO-Card)

• Bureau of Immigration(BoI) will accept PIO cards as valid travel document till 30th September, 2019 along with valid foreign passport and the Indian Immigration check posts will continue to consider all PIO cards valid for exit/entry into India till 30th September, 2019. This extension of timeline is subject to the condition that if in the meantime any deadline is notify by the ICAO thereby making hand written PIO cards invalid the PIO cardholders may have to obtain appropriate visa from Indian Missions/Post abroad.
• The height and width of the Signature Photo must have aspect ratio 1:3.

OCI Registration (In Lieu Of Lost PIO-Card)

Oci miscellaneous services.

• In case of issuance of new passport.
• In case of change of personal particulars viz. name,father’s name,nationality etc.
• In case of loss/damage of OCI registration certificate/visa.
• In case of change of address/occupation
• In case the existing OCI card holder wishes to update/upload the latest information about his latest passport, Change in address/Occupation/Contact details, the OCI card holder can select the option/(s) as given below and upload the latest photograph and requisite documents. These details shall be updated into the OCI system records and an acknowledgement shall be shared with OCI card holder on his/her registered email ID. The services under these categories are gratis in nature: 1. In case issuance of new Passport Details (each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age) 2. In case change in address/occupation/contact details.
• These Misc services can be availed for re-issuance of OCI Card as well as updating the information time to time as mentioned in the MHA notification dated 16th April, 2021. The re-issuance of new OCI card will be applicable for following categories: 1. In case of issuance of new passport (once a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age.) 2. In case of change of personal particulars viz. name, father's name, nationality etc. 3. In case of loss/damage of OCI registration certificate.
• In case of Renunciation of OCI Card.
• Kindly be ready with Applicant's image and Applicant's signature image (Max size 1Mb).
• In case the existing OCI card holder wishes to update/upload the latest information about his latest passport, Change in address/Occupation/Contact details, the OCI card holder can select the option/(s) as given below and upload the latest photograph and requisite documents. These details shall be updated into the OCI system records and an acknowledgement shall be shared with OCI card holder on his/her registered email ID. The services under these categories are gratis in nature

Apply For Special Permission

• To apply for permission for any of the activity, you must be an existing OCI Card Holder.
• to undertake research;
• to undertake any Missionary or Tabligh or Mountaineering or Journalistic activities;
• to undertake internship in any foreign Diplomatic Missions or foreign Government organisations in India or to take up employment in any foreign Diplomatic Missions in India;
• to visit any place which falls within the Protected or Restricted or prohibited areas as notified by the Central Government or competent authority;
• After submission of online application, applicant will be informed regarding permission through e-mail.

OCI Document Upload/ Re-upload

• This feature is to re-upload supporting documents for your OCI application.
• This feature can be used only after successful online registration.
• Uploading/Re-uploading of documents cannot be performed once your application gets acknowledged at Indian Mission/FRRO.
• Kindly be ready with supporting document in PDF format (Max size 1000kb).
• Kindly be ready with File reference number of your application along with the passport number.

OCI Image Upload/ Re-upload

• This feature is to re-upload Applicant's Image/ Signature.
• Re-upload cannot be performed once your application gets acknowledged at Indian Mission/FRRO.

Status Enquiry

• This feature is to check current status of your application.
• This feature will be useful only if your application gets acknowledged at Indian Mission/FRRO
• Ordinarily, OCI Registration Certificate and Visa are available for delivery within 60 days from the date of acknowledgment

Re-Print Submitted Applications

• This feature is to download and reprint application form, that you have already completed online.
• Reprinting cannot be performed after your application gets acknowledged at Indian Mission/FRRO.
• Kindly be ready with File reference number of applicant's application, applicant's date of birth along with the passport number.

Book Appointment / Reschedule Booking Appointment

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Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card

A) Application for OCI cards

1. Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who have migrated from India and acquired citizenship of a foreign country, other than Pakistan and Bangladesh are eligible for grant of Overseas Citizenship of India.

2. OCI status confers the following benefits:

a. Multiple-entry, multi-purpose life-long visa to visit India

b. Exemption from reporting to Police authorities for any length of stay in India

c. Parity with NRIs in financial, economic and educational fields except in the acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties, and

d. A person registered as OCI is eligible to apply for grant of Indian citizenship under section 5(1) (g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955 if he/she is registered as OCI for five years and has been residing in India for one year out of the five years before making the application.

4. Documents required: The required documents listed below are indicative in nature and an attempt has been made to cover majority of the cases. However, additional documents may be required after examining the application. After making an online application, please report to the High Commission with a hard copy of the application along with the following documents:

• Two photographs (51mmx51mm) with light background (NOT PASSPORT SIZE) Do's and don'ts regarding photograph are listed on the website.
• Police clearance certificate from local police
• Evidence of self or parents or grandparents previous Indian Passport, Birth Certificate, valid foreign passport held and local residential proof.
• Evidence of relationship as parent/grandparent, if their Indian origin is claimed as basis for grant of OCI.
• In case the applicant does not have an old Indian Passport, he/she may provide copy of other documents issued from India such as birth certificates, nativity certificates etc. These will be sent to India for verification before acceptance of the application form. If the applicant ever held an Indian Passport, then proof of renunciation of citizenship/surrender of passport should also be submitted.
• All the above documents are to be produced in original for verification and photocopies of the same are to be attached in duplicate with the application.

5. After grant of registration, a registration certificate in the form of a booklet will be issued and a multiple entry, mulch-purpose life-long OCI 'U' visa sticker will be pasted on the foreign passport of the applicant. While travelling, you are expected to carry the booklet along with your passport containing OCI visa.

• In case of issuance of new passport (Please refer to para Press release)
• In case of change of personal particulars viz. name, father's name, date of birth, nationality, change of address/occupation etc.
• In case of loss/damage of OCI registration certificate/visa
• Conversion of PIO card to OCI card.

2. Procedure: These services can be availed by applying Online and submitting hard copy of the application along with the requisite fee and enclosures as mentioned in the application to the High Commission.

3. Documents to be enclosed along with the application:

a. Copy of OCI registration certificate and visa

b. In case of issuance of a new passport (Please refer to para Press release), copy of new and old passport along with copy of registration certificate (OCI card) has to be enclosed.

c. In case of loss of OCI Registration Certificate and/or Visa, copy of the complaint lodged with Police authorities and copy of visa and registration certificate to be enclosed.

d. In case of change of personal particulars e.g. wrong filling of particulars by the applicant, copy of the document (s) relevant for affecting the requisite changes viz. Nationality Certificate in case of change of nationality etc. to be enclosed.

1. PRESS RELEASE: “ The mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner up to  20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age is dispensed  with”, following procedures are required to be followed.

• An OCI cardholder shall have to get the OCI card re-issued once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age . For this purpose, the OCI cardholder shall submit an online application under OCI Miscellaneous Services and then submit at the High Commission with necessary documents.
• An OCI cardholder may upload a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo on the online system under OCI Miscellaneous Services each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder within three months of receipt of the new passport. This service will be provided on gratis basis.
• In case of those who have been registered as OCI cardholder as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI card holder, the OCI cardholder shall upload a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo on the online system under OCI Miscellaneous Services each time a new passport is issued. In such cases, the OCI cardholder and his/her Indian spouse or OCI cardholder spouse will have to give a declaration that their marriage is still subsisting. Copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse / passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse shall also be uploaded in such cases. These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder foreigner spouse within three months of receipt of his / her new passport. This service will be provided on gratis basis.
• Immediately on uploading of the documents mentioned above, an email will be auto sent by the system to the OCI cardholder confirming that the documents have been successfully uploaded.  Further after scrutiny and verification, an acknowledgement through e-mail will also be automatically sent to the OCI cardholder informing that the updated details have been taken on record.
• There will be no restriction on the OCI cardholder to travel to / from India during the period from the date of issue of new passport till the date of final acknowledgement of his / her documents in the online system.

2. The timeline for re-issuance of OCI card in respect of OCI cardholders who may be required to get their OCI card re-issued has been extended till 31 December 2021.

3. It is, advised that OCI cardholders may take steps to comply with the existing OCI guidelines in Para 1 above and renew their OCI cards / upload new passport details as required by the rules.”

C) PIO card holders  who are otherwise eligible for registration as an OCI may apply following the same procedure as for the miscellaneous services and they will be considered for grant of registration in the same manner as other applicants. The application is required to be supported with the eligibility documents listed at Para 4 above. PIO card holders should submit a copy of his/her PIO card. PIO card will have to be surrendered to the Embassy for grant of OCI registration certificate and an OCI 'U' visa sticker.

D) Collection of OCI documents:  On preparation of OCI document, applicant is required to be present in person.

F) Advantages of the OCI as compared to PIO cardholders:

a. An OCI card holder is entitled to life-long visa with free travel to India whereas for a PIO card holder, it is only valid for 15 years.

b. A PIO cardholder is required to register with local Police authority for any stay exceeding 180 days in India on any single visit whereas an OCI card holder is exempted from registration with Police authority for any length of stay in India.

c. An OCI gets a specific right to become an Indian Citizen, whereas the PIO card holder does not have this.

G) Kindly note that the High Commission will accept an application for grant of OCI status after satisfying itself on the adequacy and authenticity of supporting documentation provided. In certain case this is likely to take time as the documents may require verification from the issuing authorities in India. In these cases the High Commission cannot prescribe the time frame within which the OCI card will be issued. In these cases, at the stage of initial application, an acknowledgment will be provided to you by post. Applicants will be periodically informed about the processing of their application and are also advised to keep in touch with the Embassy to follow up.

H) For any more details, please contact the High Commission.

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Consulate General of India San Francisco, California, Serving the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah and Territory of Guam

• Home ›   Consular Services ›   Visa Services ›   Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders/ Foreign Passport holders of Pakistani Origin
• Pakistani nationals holding dual nationality must apply only on their Pakistani Passport.
• US passport holders of Pakistani origin must submit their visa application form along with:
• Certificate of Renunciation of Pakistani Citizenship
• Their foreign passport with valid Pakistani visa  OR Copy of the Pakistan Origin Card
• Processing time : Minimum 7-8 weeks

4.How to apply : Apply online on the VFS website  https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/

Note :  While applying online make sure that Entry & Exit point should be same in application.

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Making plans with OCI friends? Here’s what you need to know

By Arundhati Ail

A new notification issued by the Union Home Ministry on 4 March is going to change the way Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) experience the country. OCIs will now need a special permit for several activities, including mountaineering, and to visit certain areas of the country that are categorised as “protected, restricted and prohibited”. Here's what you need to know:

Who is an OCI?

Overseas Citizens of India are typically persons of Indian origin but have foreign passports and are not officially citizens of India. Often, these are children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren of people who have been Indian citizens in an earlier time. Or, they could be persons who were Indian nationals till about 1950 before taking up citizenship of another county. India does not have provisions for dual citizenship. However, it does provide several benefits to OCIs, including a multiple entry life-long visa.

What does the new notification change for OCIs?

According to the new notification,

OCIs now need special permits for journalistic, missionary, mountaineering and ‘Tabligh' activities in India.

Special permissions will also be required to visit any place that is categorised as a protected, restricted or prohibited area (see the list below).

However, entry fees to visit national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, monuments and museums in India as well as airfare and tariffs in the domestic sector will now be at par with Indian nationals for OCIs.

Which parts of the country will OCIs need a special permit for?

Whole of Arunachal Pradesh

Whole of Manipur

Whole of Mizoram

Whole of Nagaland

Whole of Sikkim

Parts of Himachal Pradesh

Parts of Jammu & Kashmir

Parts of Rajasthan

Parts of Uttarakhand

Even the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar islands falls under ‘Restricted Areas' under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order 1963.

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• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply with their child, you will need to show us more documents.
• You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82.
• Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. 

Steps to Apply

1. fill out form ds-11 and print it.

Use our Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form on a desktop or laptop computer and then print it. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF . 

Tips to complete your child's form :

• Do not sign your child's form until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. 
• You can apply for a passport book , a passport card , or both documents.
• You may ask for a larger passport book with more visa pages, at no extra cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.

2. Get Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (and a photocopy)

Your evidence must be an original or replacement copy. The document must have the official seal or stamp of the office which issued it. You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

• Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
• Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
• Lists the parent(s)' full names
• Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
• Has the registrar's signature
• Has the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state which issued it
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Please note you must also provide a document, such as a birth certificate, that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. 

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our  Citizenship Evidence page  for more information.

Paper only : You cannot submit digital evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the document. 

Returning your child's document : We will return your child's document in a separate mailing up to 8 weeks after you receive the new passport.

Tips for making a photocopy :

• Black and white (no color)
• Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
• Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

3. Show Your Relationship to Your Child

You must submit a document that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Examples include:

• U.S. birth certificate (also evidence of U.S. citizenship)
• Foreign birth certificate
• Adoption decree
• Divorce or custody decree
• A court order

Some documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, show  both  U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies (not photocopies).

You and your child may have different last names, as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name.

If your name is different than the one on the document showing your relationship to your child, submit proof of your legal name change.

4. Get a Photo ID (and a photocopy)

Both parents or guardians must bring a physical, photo ID and a photocopy of it. If your photo ID is from a different state than the state in which you are applying, bring a second photo ID. 

You must show at least  one  of these photo IDs:

• Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
• In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship 
• Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
• U.S. military or military dependent ID
• Current (valid) foreign passport
• Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
• In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo
• In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo
• Temporary driver's license with photo

If you do not have one of these photo IDs, go to our  Identification page  for more information.

5. Show More Documents (if both parents or guardians cannot apply)

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

6. Provide a Photo

You must provide one photo with your child's application. Go to our  Passport Photo page  for photo requirements and to see examples of photos. 

• Do not attach or staple your child's photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
• Some  passport acceptance facilities
• A company which offers photo services
• Home. Ask your friend or family member to take your child's photo. Print it on glossy or matte photo quality paper. 

7. Calculate Fees

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application. 

• Add $60 to your application fee if you want  expedited service .
• Add $19.53 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.  

Child Applicants :

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our  Passport Fees  page.

*How to fill out your check and pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. Please note you must pay a separate execution (acceptance) fee. 

Families may write one check or money order to the U.S. Department of State if they are applying at the same time. The check or money order must include the name and date of birth of each applicant.

8. Find Location to Apply

In the United States:

• Traveling in more than 3 weeks?  Go to a  passport acceptance facility  such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. 
• Traveling in less than 3 weeks?   Make an appointment  to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

• Contact your  U.S. embassy or consulate .

9. Track Your Application Status

You can  subscribe to email updates  about your application status, and  learn more about each status update .

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you send my child's passport and supporting documents.

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778  to report that you have not received your documents. 

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document. 

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Returning the passport to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

What countries require Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to be notarized at an embassy or consulate?

In certain countries, a DS-3053 must be notarized at a  U.S. embassy or consulate  and cannot be notarized by a local notary public. Currently, these countries include:

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair  near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

How to Apply for your Child's Passport

Watch this video to learn how to apply in person for your child's U.S. passport!

External Link

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visas and other travel documents for entering the U.S.

The visitor visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

Along with your visa, you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship. When you arrive at your port of entry into the U.S., officials will issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94.

How to renew a visitor visa

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

Understand expiration dates for visas and I-94 forms

• The date you must depart the U.S. will be shown on your Form I-94. This date is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer when you arrive at the port-of-entry into the U.S. 
• Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas while they are in the U.S.

LAST UPDATED: May 31, 2024

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

India vs Pakistan at T20 World Cup: Time, security, pitch, tickets, history

Al Jazeera’s guide to the archrivals’ blockbuster cricket match at T20 World Cup in New York on Sunday, June 9.

Cricket’s fiercest rivals India and Pakistan will come face to face in a highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2024 match for the first time in the United States.

India head into the Group A match on the back of a comfortable win over Ireland , while Pakistan are under pressure after suffering a shock defeat to co-hosts USA in the opener.

Keep reading

With the t20 world cup, cricket has come ‘home’ for new york’s south asians, can rohit sharma’s ‘balanced and experienced’ india win the t20 world cup, new york to beef up security ahead of india-pakistan clash at t20 world cup, can pakistan shed poor form and off-field chaos for t20 world cup glory.

Security arrangements in Long Island have been increased to an unprecedented level for a sports event, multiple screening events are planned across the world and tickets are selling like hotcakes.

Here’s everything you need to know about cricket’s marquee fixture:

When is India vs Pakistan?

The match will be played on Sunday, June 9. It will start at 10:30am local (14:30 GMT). For viewers in India and Pakistan, it would be at 8pm and 7:30pm respectively.

Where is India vs Pakistan?

The match will be held at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in Long Island, New York. It has a capacity of 34,000.

How’s the New York pitch?

The temporary Nassau County International Cricket Stadium has hosted three games so far. The first two were low-scoring encounters that favoured seam bowlers due to the nature of the drop-in pitch. Batters found it difficult to hit big shots due to the movement and bounce.

Following criticism from fans and ex-players , the International Cricket Council has said the pitches have not been up to standard and ground staff are working on remedying them for the rest of the tournament.

The third match, between Ireland and Canada, saw both teams post scores above 100 but the pitch remained tricky.

The India-Pakistan match is expected to be played on a new surface.

Are there any security concerns for India vs Pakistan?

The Governor of New York State, Kathy Hochul, said last week that security arrangements in New York would be “elevated” for the tournament, especially before the marquee clash between India and Pakistan.

Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said his teams are not taking the match lightly and termed it like the “Super Bowl on steroids” when it comes to fan interest.

Ryder told Indian newspaper Deccan Herald that the security for the match “is possibly more than the one we offer the president”.

Where can I get tickets for India vs Pakistan?

General tickets for the match have been sold out, but limited premium tickets are still available on the official ICC platform, ranging from $1,500 to $10,000.

Ticket resale websites are offering tickets for the “hottest event” as well, with prices starting at $980 and reaching up to a whopping $17,475.

How is New York gearing up for the match?

The ICC has arranged official fan parks for fans who could not travel to the host city.

In New York, India vs Pakistan will be broadcast live for fans at Oculus World Trade Center and Cedar Creek Park. Fan parks will also be arranged at Epic Central in Texas and Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center. Most of these venues have been sold out as well.

Apart from the US, the ICC has arranged fan parks in New Delhi, India and Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom and South Africa.

The watch party at citi field for the India vs Pakistan @T20WorldCup match, which is being played in Long Island has been sold out. That’s two NYC stadiums sold out for this match pic.twitter.com/dzTtv5XYtY — Jomboy (@Jomboy_) May 30, 2024

What’s the weather going to be like in New York?

There is a forecast for rain in the morning, which could interrupt the fixture.

What happens if rain interrupts a T20 World Cup match?

In case of adverse weather conditions or other interruptions, an additional 90 minutes will be allotted to all morning and afternoon fixtures, and 60 minutes to all evening fixtures.

In case of a shortened match, each team will have to complete five overs for a result to be declared.

There is no reserve day for group-stage games.

What happens if the India vs Pakistan match is tied?

All tied matches will proceed to a super over. And if that too is tied, subsequent super overs will be played until a winner emerges.

Plenty of smiles at India training in New York on Friday ahead of their #T20WorldCup match against Pakistan, with a player from a rival camp making a surprise visit 👀 pic.twitter.com/P1waTuAgqp — ICC (@ICC) June 8, 2024

How to watch and follow India vs Pakistan?

Al Jazeera will have live text and photo coverage of the match from 09:00 GMT.

The match will be broadcast and streamed live through various rights holders. Disney Star will broadcast the match in India, while PTV and Ten Sports have the rights in Pakistan.

Who is the favourite to win?

India are favourites to win this match owing to their dominant head-to-head record.

In the seven times the teams have met at the T20 World Cup, India have won six times, including a bowl-out, while Pakistan have won only once.

What’s the history of India vs Pakistan at the ICC T20 World Cup?

• 2007 (group match) – Johannesburg : India edged Pakistan in a bowl-out after the match was tied at the end of both innings.
• 2007 (final) – Johannesburg : India won the first T20 World Cup after defeating Pakistan by five runs in the final. The inexperienced Joginder Sharma bowled a fantastic final over, while Irfan Pathan and RP Singh also played key roles, picking up three wickets each.
• 2012 – Colombo : India registered a comfortable eight-wicket win over Pakistan in the group stage, as the bowlers bundled out Pakistan for just 128 runs, with Lakshmipathy Balaji bagging three wickets. Virat Kohli, aged 22 at the time, scored an unbeaten 78 runs.
• 2014 – Mirpur : India strolled to an easy seven-wicket win in the group stage after their spinners restricted Pakistan to 130-7. Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina’s unbeaten 66-run partnership took India home.
• 2016 – Kolkata : In a rain-affected contest, India’s bowlers restricted Pakistan to 118-5 before Kohli struck an unbeaten 55 as India won the group game by six wickets.
• 2021 – Dubai : Pakistan defeated India for the first time in the tournament when they won by 10 wickets in a group game. Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali picked five wickets between them to restrict India to 151-7 before Mohammad Rizwan (79 not out) and Babar Azam (68 not out) closed out a historic result.
• 2022 – Melbourne : India defeated Pakistan by four wickets in front of more than 90,000 fans in a group game, as Kohli smashed an unbeaten 82 for a thrilling finish.

Khan: Pakistan's game against Cambodia could change lives

Otis Khan chats to FIFA about representing Pakistan, the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualification campaign and his nation's chances of qualifying for World Cup 26.

Pakistan forward Otis Khan has been speaking to FIFA

The forward made his debut for the nation in May 2023

He is looking to help them into the second round of World Cup 26 qualifying

On 6 February 2015, Pakistan secured a 2-1 friendly victory over Afghanistan at Lahore’s Punjab Stadium, thanks to an added-time Saadullah Khan goal. Some eight-and-a-half years on though, and that victory remains the Green Falcons' most recent international game on home soil.

A crisis within the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) led to a suspension of the nation’s domestic premier division later in 2015. Then, from October 2017 to March 2018, and April 2021 and June 2022, FIFA imposed suspensions on the PFF following undue third-party interference as the men’s national team fell to an all-time low of 205 on the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking in June 2019. In between the bans, ‘home’ games were played in the likes of Bangladesh and Bahrain.

The national side’s long-awaited homecoming will arrive on 17 October, when the second leg of their first-round AFC FIFA World Cup 26™ qualifier against Cambodia takes place. The winner of the tie will head into the first group phase of Asian preliminaries - a stage Pakistan have yet to reach.

For many fans, the home leg will be the first time they have witnessed their national side play on home soil. For Otis Khan, it represents a memorable first visit to the country he now represents.

While Khan was born in Ashton-under-Lyne, the Manchester United academy product is eligible thanks to the roots of his paternal grandfather, who fled India for Pakistan and settled in Faisalabad, before moving to the UK.

“It’s something I’ve been waiting to do for a long time,” Khan admitted when discussing his first visit to Pakistan. “My uncle always wanted to take me, show me the family and where he’s from. Growing up, I still had the heritage, but the more I’ve been exposed to the national team, it’s certainly opened my eyes. Now that we’ve got the opportunity to go, I can’t wait.”

Initial visa issues prevented the forward from honouring a call-up when he was just 18, but now - some ten years down the line - Khan is keen to do his bit for the squad.

“Everyone is willing to learn, everyone is trying to get as much advice off me as they can,” the forward said of the wider squad. “I’ve said [to the team] that my door is always open if you want to speak, need any advice or need help with anything, come and see me.

“I’ve got vast experience from England that I can help the team with where I can, whether that’s on the pitch or off the pitch.”

That experience has taken the versatile attacker to the likes of Sheffield United, Mansfield Town and Tranmere Rovers, as well as current club Grimsby Town. But how is he finding swapping international breaks and added rest with trips to Mauritius, India and Cambodia?

“I’m loving it!” Khan said enthusiastically. “It’s a great experience in terms of meeting people, meeting people from Pakistan, coming together with the English-Pakistani lads as well - I’ve got friends for life there - and travelling to different parts of the world. It’s amazing.”

There is still plenty of work to do on the field for Pakistan and Khan. The South Asian nation are still searching for a first-ever World Cup qualifying win, and have only scored twice at this stage since 2007. Add in the fact that it was Cambodia who ended their dreams in the first round four years ago, and the scale of their task becomes even clearer.

“A lot is riding on this game,” Khan continued. “Not just getting to the next round, but for the local players back home and for the kids growing up in the grassroots in Pakistan. If we get to the next round, they may put a league back in place. Right now, you haven’t got those next steps for players to improve. It would give hope to the children in Pakistan, to show, ‘This is where I can be one day’. 

“It would mean everything for them, this game could change a lot of people’s lives. We need to give everything so that things can improve in the country.”

With the extension of the World Cup from 32 teams to 48 for the 2026 edition, there are up to three more spots available for AFC nations. If Pakistan were to advance beyond Cambodia and book a first-ever second-round berth, they would join Tajikistan, Jordan and Saudi Arabia in a competitive-looking Group G, where only the latter can boast World Cup finals pedigree.

So, given the additional tickets up for grabs, the return of home support and the players available to Pakistan, is this seen as their best chance to date to make it to the World Cup?

“I’d say so,” states Khan defiantly. “I think we’ve got the best team Pakistan has ever had at this moment in time. We’ve got three or four lads from Denmark, Easah Suliman [Pakistan captain] is in Azerbaijan, and the English lads. Now is as good a time as any to win a game and I think we’ve got a good team.

“It would be an incredibly proud moment for Pakistan, but as I say, we’ve got steps we need to take. And the next step is just beating Cambodia.”

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AFC FIFA World Cup 26 qualifiers: When do they take place and what is the format?

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