Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) applicants in Canada will no longer be able to apply by post. Starting April 5, 2026, all OCI applications in Canada must be submitted in-person at designated BLS International Centres to provide mandatory biometrics (fingerprints and photograph). Postal applications will no longer be accepted for OCI processing from this date due to the requirement for physical biometric capture.
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Until now, applicants in Canada could complete the OCI process by filling out forms online, uploading documents, and sending physical copies via courier to BLS International centres. This hybrid system has now been replaced with a fully in-person requirement.
“From 5th April, 2026 onwards, all OCI applications must be submitted in person at BLS Centres as Biometrics have to be provided. OCI applications by post will not be accepted,” the official application read.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: OCI Applications in Canada@HCI_Ottawa @MEAIndia @BOIndiaOfficial pic.twitter.com/ZMfOhYLTr8
— IndiainToronto (@IndiainToronto) April 2, 2026
What Is OCI Card?
The OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card functions as a lifelong visa for people of Indian origin. Those holding an OCI card has the freedom to live and work in the country without any time restrictions. OCI holders can stay in the country for years and take up private-sector jobs without worry.
However, there are a few limitations. OCI cardholders are not allowed to vote in Indian elections or work in government jobs or as journalists. They are also prohibited from purchasing agricultural land. Moreover, certain government-controlled or restricted tourist areas require holders to obtain special permission in advance before visiting.
Who is eligible?
OCI registration is open to foreign nationals of Indian origin, including:
Citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after the commencement of the Constitution of India, i.e., 26.01.1950
Individuals eligible for Indian citizenship at the time of the Constitution's commencement in 1950
Individuals belonging to a territory that became part of India after 15.08.194
Children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren of such individuals
Minor children of Indian citizens
Spouses of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders (subject to conditions) registered under section 7A of India's Citizenship Act, 1955, and whose marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than
Who is not eligible?
Applicants, who or either of whose parents or grandparents or great-grandparents are or had been a citizen of Pakistan and Bangladesh, are not eligible under current rules.
Processing Timelines And Application Fee
Current timelines suggest OCI cards are processed in roughly 7–15 working days in cities like Toronto, excluding courier time. With in-person submission, timelines may remain similar, but applicants should factor in appointment availability and travel time.
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Applicants will also need to ensure they book appointments in the correct jurisdiction, carry all original documents for verification, and minors include parental authorization forms.
To make an OCI Card, individuals need to pay $371+ ICWF Charge: $5= $376 (Rs 34,870) + Processing Fee: $1.70 (approximately Rs 157).
https://www.blsindia-canada.com/toronto-jurisdiction/ocihome.php
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