Q.814 OCI Eligibility - Born in

Pakistan but of Indian Origin

Question: I have OCI card and I wish to apply for my wifes OCI card on the spouses base. I am of Indian origin. My wife was born in Karachi, Pakistan, according to British Nationality, she was born in 1961 and came to UK as named child (6 months old) on mothers passport. All her immediate family (mum, dad, grandparents, ancestors) are ALL of Indian origin. My wife has never held Pakistani passport or ID and has NEVER been to Pakistan and have no ties with Pakistan. Would she be eligible for OCI card? Most website suggests people of Pakistan and Bangladesh are NOT eligible. I have tried to get some answers from HCI London who will not respond to my emails on this matter. I would be very great full if some one can assist me. Thanks in Advance [October 22, 2015] Answer: While I well understand your frustration in trying to get answers, I truly wish I could say something that will be helpful to your situation. Here a some points you can think over: 1. Your wife could apply for OCI online. However, If your wife has documentation that shows her birth place to be in Karachi, Pakistan. Then there might be a problem. To apply for OCI applicant has to first submit online application. The very first page of the online form requires applicants to enter: o Their Country of Birth AND o Place of birth. 2. Since your wife was born in Karachi, Pakistan I have a feeling the application will not move further and be rejected probably by the software itself. 3. I understand from your email that your wife was born in Pakistan and left soon after birth for UK. As you say she has no ties to Pakistan and All her immediate family is of Indian origin. The only problem is that all this can be clarified only by human communication. As soon as place of birth is mentioned as Pakistan, the chances are that OCI application may be rejected. The only way to get around this is to try and speak to a consular officer in person for guidance. 4. If you have family in India then they can approach the FRRO who may be able to advise you on the best way to proceed. I may be wrong but might be easier to speak to someone at FRRO than at Indian Consulate I sincerely hope that things work out for you. Perhaps someone reading this page has been through a similar saturation and can share their experience to help others.