Revamped OCI Portal Launched by Home Minister Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the revamped Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) portal on May 19, 2025, aiming to simplify and digitize the experience of overseas Indians. The portal, featuring an updated user interface, promises enhanced security, functionality, and accessibility for over 5 million OCI cardholders and prospective applicants.

Why in News?

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) launched the new OCI portal in response to growing feedback and the need to modernize the older system developed in 2013. This move comes amid increasing demand from the Indian diaspora for seamless access to India-related services.

Aim and Objectives

• Simplify and streamline the registration process for OCI cardholders.
• Ensure hassle-free experience for Indian-origin persons while visiting/staying in India.
• Strengthen digital security and offer a modern user-friendly interface.

Key Features of the New OCI Portal

• Updated and intuitive user interface.
• Advanced security protocols to protect user data.
• Accessible at: https://ociservices.gov.in
• Available to over 5 million OCI holders and new applicants.
• Improved processing efficiency of applications.

Background of the OCI Scheme

• Introduced via amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955, in 2005.
• Enables Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to register as Overseas Citizens of India.
• Eligible if they were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or qualified to become citizens.
• Ineligible if the individual or their parents/grandparents were citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

Legacy and Modernization

The previous portal was operational since 2013, functioning across,

• 180+ Indian missions
• 12 Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs)
• It handled around 2,000 applications per day.
• Technological limitations and user feedback led to this overhaul.

Significance

• Empowers global Indian diaspora through easy access to OCI services.
• Promotes India’s image as a digitally advanced nation.
• Strengthens bonds with non-resident Indian communities.