e-OCI Application Acknowledged but No Update After Several Weeks

I applied from California, and my timeline was similar. My acknowledgment came quickly, but the application remained under process for quite a while. From what I've seen, the OCI status doesn't always update at every stage. Unless you've received a request for additional documents, it may simply be waiting for verification. Requirements and processing times can vary depending on the Consulate and individual case.

Mine went through VFS Chicago, and there were no updates for over six weeks either. I checked the OCI status page almost every day without seeing any changes. Eventually, the application was processed, and I received the e-OCI shortly afterward. The lack of updates was frustrating, but it turned out to be normal in my case.

I had almost the same experience through VFS New York. My application showed "Under Process" for nearly seven weeks after acknowledgment, and then the status changed several times within just a few days. I wasn't contacted for any additional documents, so I think the long wait was simply part of the processing.

I had an OCI application for my daughter submitted through the e-OCI portal from the UK.

The acknowledgment was issued quickly, but the next status update didn't appear for almost two months. Since it was a minor OCI application, I was worried there was an issue with the birth certificate or parental documents.

Eventually, the status updated without any intervention from us. The application was approved a few weeks later.

What I noticed from various OCI discussions is that acknowledgment only confirms receipt of the application. It doesn't necessarily mean substantive processing has begun. Some applications move quickly, while others remain unchanged for extended periods.

Requirements and timelines can vary, so comparing your case directly with someone else's may not always be helpful.

I'm based in California and applied for OCI through the new system shortly after it became available.

My application remained at the acknowledgment stage for nearly nine weeks. I contacted the application center after week eight, and they advised me that they could not provide processing updates beyond what appeared online.

A few days later, I received an email requesting a clearer copy of my surrender certificate. After I uploaded the document, the application started moving again.

One thing I learned is that not all document reviews happen immediately. Sometimes applications sit in queue before detailed verification begins.

If you haven't received any communication, I would continue monitoring the status, but keep copies of all your submitted documents ready in case additional information is requested later.