As a London Notary Public based in London’s west end we often Notarised documents for India and Indian citizens. An ‘OCI Card’ (Overseas Citizen of India Card) is a multiple-entry visa which enables the Notary Public client to have unlimited travel and stay in India for the rest of his or her life. Our Notaries Public office is used to assisting client to successfullyt obtain OCI cards.

In order for a Notary client to be eligible for an OCI card, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• you are eligible to become a citizen of India after 26 January 1950;
• you are a citizen of India, on or any time after 26 January 1950; or
• you belong to a territory that became part of India after 15 August 1947;

From 2nd March 2015, to obtain an OCI Card a Notary Public client will need to fill out an application from the VFS centres for OCI services. You may be required to bring with you an original copy of your:

• birth certificate;
• school leaver certificates;
• naturalisation certificate; and
• a copy of your old Indian passport.

In order to qualify for an OCI card you may require a notarised affidavit swearing that you have never held an Indian Passport at the same time as holding a British Passport. A London Notary Public can notarise the affidavit as well as certify and notarise copies of all supporting paperwork used within your application.

If you are considering applying for an OCI Card, please do not hesitate to get in touch at matthew@mdpryke-notary.com Further information on OCI cards is available from the website of the Indian High Commission in London at https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/page/oci-card/

PIO Cards

As of 9th January 2015, PIO (Person of Indian Origin) cards are no longer being issued. Holders of existing PIO cards need not worry as the card is still valid for lifelong travel. If you wish to convert your PIO card to an OCI, London Notary Public can assist you. To obtain more information please visit https://www.hcilondon.gov.in/page/pio-card/.