The Cox & King Global Services (CKGS) which handles all Indian passport, visa and travel related businesses like Overseas Citizen Of India (OCI), has terminated its contract with the Indian government and will not be accepting any new applications at any of its locations in the U.S., effective immediately.

Who is the new provider for OCI card?

VFS Global
VFS Global is New Service Provider for OCI Card, Passport, Visas with Effect on November 2, 2020.

Who is replacing CKGS in USA?

VFS Global to Replace CKGS as Outsourcing Provider for Visa Services in USA.

How much does OCI cost?

Fees for OCI Card

ServiceConsular FeeTotal
New OCI card (Adult/Minor)$275.00$295.00
New OCI for PIO Card Holder (Adult)$275.00$45
New OCI card (Adult/Minor)$275.00$295.00
Re-issue in case of Lost /Damaged OCI card$100.00$120.00

Can OCI buy land India?

As per the guidelines issued by Reserve Bank of India, an NRI or OCI card holder can invest in any residential or commercial property. However, they are not permitted to invest in farmland, plantation land, and agriculture land.

What are the disadvantages of OCI card?

For OCI Cardholders

AdvantagesDisadvantages
2. No requirement for registering with local police authorities after 180 days.3. Not eligible for a government job.
4. No requirement for special permission to work and study3.Not allowed to participate in Indian elections.
5. Similar benefits as NRIs on financial, educational.

Can I travel while OCI is in process?

Yes. If you have any emergency travel plan, you can travel with your current OCI card, current passport and old passport associated with OCI.

Who will replace CKGS?

VFS Global to Replace Cox & Kings as Outsourcing Provider for Visas, Passport Services for Indian American Community. The Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C, Oct.

Who is replacing CKGS?

Is OCI valid for lifetime?

The OCI card is a lifelong visa available for citizens of Indian origin. Once you get it, you will obtain all the rights any resident in India has. You can live and work in India. The OCI card is valid for 10 years after issued and it allows Multiple Entry to the country.

How long does it take to get OCI through CKGS?

So the CKGS center that you must submit your OCI application to will depend on where you live. OCI applications are typically processed within 8-10 weeks. However, the processing time depends on the application itself; applications that are submitted incorrectly or missing information may take longer.

What is Cox & King Global Services (CKGS)?

The Cox & King Global Services (CKGS) which handles all Indian passport, visa and travel related businesses like Overseas Citizen Of India (OCI), has terminated its contract with the Indian government and will not be accepting any new applications at any of its locations in the U.S., effective immediately.

Where can I apply for an OCI card in India?

If you are already in India on a visa, then you can apply for an OCI card at the nearest CKGS center or at a government office. There are 6 CKGS centers in the U.S., and each has a different jurisdiction which covers a range of U.S. states. So the CKGS center that you must submit your OCI application to will depend on where you live.

What is the OCI application process like?

There are two parts to the OCI application process. Part A is an online application that must be completed and then printed out. Be careful with your answers: once you submit them and print out Part A, you cannot go back and make any edits or changes.