How much does an OCI card cost in Germany?

A fresh OCI costs EUR 254 at the Consulates in Frankfurt, Munich and Hamburg, including the ICWF surcharge.

How long does OCI take in Germany?

Usually 8-10 weeks for adults and minors of Indian origin who held an Indian passport. Foreign-spouse applications have no fixed timeline.

Do I need to renew my OCI when I get a new German passport?

Update the new passport details online within 3 months (free). A one-time reissue is needed if you get a new passport after turning 20.

Getting an OCI card after German citizenship (2026)

Updated 2026-10-21, checked against official Embassy and Consulate sources.

After you become German, you can apply for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), a lifelong visa for India. First get your Surrender Certificate, then apply online at ociservices.gov.in and submit to the Indian mission for your Bundesland. A fresh OCI costs EUR 254 and usually takes 8-10 weeks for people who previously held an Indian passport. New applicants now receive a digital e-OCI.

The order matters: surrender, then OCI

Your OCI application needs the Surrender Certificate for your last Indian passport. Apply for OCI only once you have it, or post both together where your mission allows it (Munich).

Each family member who held an Indian passport needs their own surrender first. Children born in Germany who never held Indian citizenship go straight to OCI.

Fees

Fresh OCI card: EUR 254 (Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg)
Reissue after a new passport (once, after age 20) or change of particulars: EUR 26
Updating new passport details online: free within 3 months of the new passport's issue, EUR 26 after

How to apply

Fill in the online application at ociservices.gov.in and upload your photo, signature and documents
Print and sign the application
Submit to your mission with the fee (in person or by post, depending on the mission), including your Surrender Certificate, German passport and proof of address
Give biometrics if asked; new applicants receive a digital e-OCI

Special cases

Foreign spouse of an OCI holder or Indian citizen: interview and security clearance, with no fixed timeline
Planning a trip soon: if you travel before your OCI arrives, you'll need an Indian e-Visa, which also requires the Surrender Certificate

Frequently asked questions

How much does an OCI card cost in Germany?: A fresh OCI costs EUR 254 at the Consulates in Frankfurt, Munich and Hamburg, including the ICWF surcharge.
How long does OCI take in Germany?: Usually 8-10 weeks for adults and minors of Indian origin who held an Indian passport. Foreign-spouse applications have no fixed timeline.
Do I need to renew my OCI when I get a new German passport?: Update the new passport details online within 3 months (free). A one-time reissue is needed if you get a new passport after turning 20.