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I'm planning to apply for a new e-OCI card after recently becoming a U.S. citizen, and I'm a little confused about whether I still need to deal with VFS.
Since the Government introduced the new e-OCI system, I assumed the entire process would be online. I completed most of the online application, uploaded my documents, and expected the next step would simply be waiting for approval.
However, I've come across different posts saying that applicants still have to submit documents through VFS, while others suggest everything is now digital. I'm in Texas, so my application falls under the Houston Consulate, and I would prefer not to make an in-person trip if it's avoidable.
Has anyone applied recently from the USA? Were you able to complete everything online, or did you still have to use VFS? If VFS is still involved, can the application be submitted by courier instead of visiting an application center?
I'm trying to understand the actual process before I book any appointments or arrange document shipping. Since the e-OCI rollout is still relatively new, I'd really appreciate hearing from people who have applied in the last month or two.
My experience was slightly different because I applied in the UK.
The online OCI registration wasn't enough on its own. VFS still handled the application submission, and adults were required to attend an appointment at the VFS center. Parents could submit on behalf of minors, but adult applicants needed to appear in person. So the process can vary depending on the country and local Indian mission.
I applied from New Jersey under the New York jurisdiction a few weeks ago.
Even though the application itself was completed online, I still had to register with VFS after getting my government reference number. I chose the postal submission option instead of visiting a VFS center in person. I mailed the signed application and supporting documents, and VFS acknowledged receiving the package a few days later.
For my case, there was no need to visit the application center because postal applications were accepted. That said, I still had to complete the VFS portion of the process.
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I had exactly the same question when the e-OCI system was announced.
From what I've seen, the digital e-OCI doesn't automatically mean the application process has become completely online everywhere. Many applicants in the USA are still completing the government application first and then either mailing their documents to VFS or attending an appointment if required by their jurisdiction.
I'd recommend checking the instructions for your specific VFS jurisdiction because they can differ slightly. The rollout has been gradual, so procedures may continue to evolve.