Update | e-OCI Card for OCI Card Holders
On 14 July 2026, the Embassy of India in Berlin shared an important update regarding the newly launched Electronic Overseas Citizen of India (e-OCI) Card. The Government of India’s new digital initiative enables OCI card holders to access their OCI card electronically, making international travel more convenient. The e-OCI Card can be downloaded to a mobile device and presented, along with a valid passport, at Immigration Check Posts and with participating airlines whenever required. Existing physical OCI cards/booklets remain valid and will continue to be accepted for immigration and other associated services. This initiative offers OCI card holders a more secure and convenient digital travel experience while retaining the validity of their existing physical OCI documents.
e-OCI Card Launched for New Applicants and Existing OCI Card Holders
The Government of India launched the Electronic Overseas Citizen of India Card, or e-OCI Card, on 30 June 2026 for new applicants and existing OCI card holders who possess physical OCI booklets.
The e-OCI Card provides a convenient digital version of the OCI travel document that can be downloaded and saved on a mobile device.
Key Features of the e-OCI Card
1. Enhanced security and easier travel
The new e-OCI Card incorporates enhanced security features and has been integrated with various systems, including the Immigration module, to facilitate smoother travel.
2. Physical OCI Card not required when using the e-OCI Card
Holders of an e-OCI Card are not required to carry the physical copy of their OCI card at the time of Immigration Clearance or while availing of other associated services.
The digital e-OCI Card can be presented on a mobile device, along with a valid passport, at Immigration Check Posts and to participating airlines whenever required.
3. Available through the OCI Portal and mobile application
The e-OCI Card can be downloaded by logging into the official OCI Services Portal:
https://ociservices.gov.in/onlineOCI/
It can also be accessed through the official Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile application.
4. Existing physical OCI booklets remain valid
Existing physical OCI booklets will continue to remain valid and will be accepted for immigration clearance and other associated services.
How Existing OCI Card Holders Can Download the e-OCI Card
Step 1: Log in to the OCI Services Portal using your existing User ID and password.
Applicants who are not already registered must complete the registration process using the email address provided at the time of their OCI application.
Step 2: After logging in, click on the e-OCI tab available on the dashboard.
Step 3: Your OCI application details will appear on the screen. In the last column, click on Generate e-OCI Card.
Step 4: The e-OCI Card will be generated and made available for download.
Step 5: Download and save the e-OCI Card on your mobile phone. The digital version can be presented at Immigration Check Posts and to participating airlines whenever required.
OCI card holders are advised to download and securely save their e-OCI Cards for convenient access during travel.
Please share this important information with family members and friends who are OCI card holders.
