What documents are required for OCI for a minor?

I would also make sure that the names on the child's birth certificate, passport and parents' documents match.

If a parent's name has changed after marriage or through a legal name change, supporting evidence may be needed. If the parents' marriage certificate is unavailable, check whether the Mission accepts an alternative declaration or affidavit.

For a child who previously held an Indian passport, the surrender documentation is particularly important. For a child born abroad who has never held an Indian passport, the parents' proof of Indian origin may be central to the application.

Keep clear copies of all documents and make sure the uploaded files are legible. Follow the current upload format and size instructions on the OCI portal.

The first thing I would check is whether the child was born outside India and has never held an Indian passport, or whether the child previously held an Indian passport.

The document checklist can be different for these two categories.

For a child born in the USA who has never held an Indian passport, the usual document categories include:

• Child's valid foreign passport
• Birth certificate showing the child's details and both parents' names
• Parents' passports and proof of Indian origin
• Parents' marriage certificate, where required
• Parental consent or authorisation
• Proof of address
• Child's photograph and signature or thumb impression

If the child previously held an Indian passport, the application may also require the old Indian passport and the applicable Surrender Certificate.

I would download the checklist for the correct category from the official OCI portal or the authorised application centre before preparing the documents.

One thing that can cause confusion is parental consent. The OCI application for a minor may require a prescribed parental authorisation form or consent letter.

Check whether the current checklist asks for both parents' signatures, notarisation or any additional identity documents. Requirements may differ by jurisdiction.

If the parents are divorced, separated or one parent has sole custody, the application may require a court order or custody documentation. If one parent is unavailable, ask the relevant Mission what additional consent or authorisation is accepted.

For a US-born child, also check the birth certificate requirements. Some jurisdictions require an apostille or other authentication for foreign-issued documents, but the exact requirement should be confirmed from the local checklist.