If you or your family members are planning to apply for a fresh Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card in Canada, important processing changes are now in effect. The High Commission of India in Ottawa and the Consulates General of India in Toronto and Vancouver have updated OCI processing rules, mandating in-person biometric submissions (fingerprint capture and digital facial photographs) at designated BLS International centers.
Most importantly, postal submissions for fresh OCI card applications are no longer permitted. All fresh applicants must book an in-person appointment to submit their documents and biometric data.
Operational Changes: What You Need to Know
- End of Postal Submissions: Mail-in applications for fresh OCI cards are no longer accepted by BLS centers across Canada. All fresh applications must be presented in person by appointment.
- Mandatory In-Person Biometrics: Applicants must provide digital fingerprints and facial biometrics during their counter submission at BLS. This aligns OCI processing with international security and identity standards.
- Original Document Inspection at Counter: Because you are presenting documents in person, original physical records (such as Canadian passports, surrender certificates, and birth certificates) are verified on-site at the BLS counter and immediately handed back to you. You no longer run the risk of mailing sensitive original identity documents.
Biometric Rules for Children & Minors
- Children Aged 5 and Above: Must attend the in-person appointment alongside a parent to submit digital fingerprints and have their biometrics captured at the BLS counter.
- Children Under 5 Years Old (Fingerprint Exemption): Children under five years of age are exempt from mandatory fingerprint biometrics. However, they must still fulfill physical photograph standards.
- Photo Requirements for Newborns & Toddlers: A compliant physical photograph meeting ICAO standards (white background, neutral expression, no shadows) must be pasted onto the physical application form, and a digital copy must be uploaded on the Official OCI Portal.
How to Schedule Your Appointment via BLS Canada
- Step 1 – Online Government Application: Complete the fresh OCI application form online at the official Government of India OCI Portal and upload your signature/thumb impression and documents.
- Step 2 – Book a BLS Appointment Slot: Visit BLS International Canada Services to select your nearest center (such as Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Ottawa, Vancouver, Surrey, Calgary, or Edmonton) and reserve a submission time slot.
- Step 3 – In-Person Submission & Biometric Capture: Attend your scheduled appointment with your printed application, supporting originals, self-attested copies, and required fees to complete biometric enrollment.
What This Means for Families and New Parents
For Canadian-born children and newly naturalized Canadian citizens, these rules mean that postal applications can no longer be used as a shortcut. Planning ahead by booking your BLS appointment well before your intended travel dates to India is essential to ensure your family’s OCI cards are processed without delay.
