Welcome to High Commission of India in Singapore

FAQ

I. APPOINTMENTS

1. How should I book an appointment at the HCI?

Ans: In the normal course, you should approach BLS International Services Pte Ltd, our authorised service provider for passport/visa/consular services, by booking an appointment with them at https://www.blsindia.sg/bookappointment.php

However, if you are unable to get an appointment for submission at their centre for some reason, or if you are faced with an emergency, you may please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website, for Passport/Consular/VISA/OCI service. Please ensure that you choose the correct option for the service required. Incorrect choice of service required in the online appointment system may result in denial of service to you.

For all adoption/welfare related services, please send an email to welfare.singapore@mea.gov.in for an appointment.

2. I would like to make an appointment to get a signature on this child adoption form so that we can initiate the process of adoption. Kindly assist. Thank you.

Ans: Please send an email to welfare.singapore@mea.gov.in for an appointment.

3. Hi dear Sir/Mam, I would like to make an appointment with the High Commission as early as possible. I just came here today and the guard told me to make an appointment by email. I am not able to get an early appointment. How can I get an early date? Please advise.

Ans: You may please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website.

4. Hello Sir, Is the High Commission permitting ‘walk-in’ applicants without a prior appointment?

Ans: In view of the ongoing pandemic situation and the guidelines circulated by the Ministry of Health, the High Commission is constrained to limit the number of Consular service-seekers at the HCI premises. Please, therefore, book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website.

5. I have been finding it difficult to reach a telephone number given by the High Commission on the website. Is there any other way I can get in touch with Consular officials of the High Commission to follow up on my Consular services application?

Ans: Please note that our telephone enquiry is a scarce resource, given the large number of applicants who try to call us. It is therefore likely that you will find the phone busy on most occasions. Our expectation is that applicants would rely on telephone enquiries only after they have exhausted other means of reaching out to the High Commission, namely our Email and our Whatsapp-based enquiries. We make our best endeavour to respond to queries on these enquiries within 24 hours. Our telephone enquiries are primarily meant for applicants who are not tech-savvy and are therefore compelled to rely on telephonic enquiries only.

Our whatsapp enquiries for passport and visa are: +65-94519814 & +65-87778589

Our email enquires for passport is : passport.singapore@mea.gov.in

Our email enquires for Visa is: visa.singapore@mea.gov.in

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II. PASSPORT

1. Hi Team, let me know the process for passport renewal. Also provide the list of documents to submit with the application. Also, let me know how to book the appointment, so that I can plan better. Many Thanks

Ans: Application for renewal of passport should be submitted in person at any one of the Passport Application Centres authorized by the High Commission.

Please note that the Passport Application Centres will charge a service fee of Singapore $ 10.80 per application (please check the BLS website for updates).

The passport renewal application form may be downloaded from www.hcisingapore.gov.in or collected from the High Commission or the Passport Application Centres free of charge. All passport forms have to be registered at the PSP portal and then a printout taken for submission). The relevant link is available on our website.

For additional clarification regarding your passport application, please contact the Passport section at passport.singapore@mea.gov.in.

Documents required: Applicant has to come in person to submit the passport renewal application form (as the identity/photograph has to be verified) along with:

existing (expired) Indian Passport
recent colour photograph Size 2-inch X 2 inch (5.1 X 5.1 cm) with a white background, taken within the last 6 months, and
Identity Card (NRIC/EP/SP/DP/WP) and photocopies of these documents.
For renewal of passports of minors, copies of passports of parents and IC copies of parents may also please be submitted.
Processing time: Normally between 7 to 10 working days.
Where to apply: Authorised Passport Application centres
Emergency Services (Tatkal seva) for Issue and Renewal of Passport
This service is available for issuance of passport within 3 working days basis provided there is no bar against the applicant and bona-fide urgency is established (additional Tatkal charges applicable).
Where to apply: Authorised Passport Application centres or directly at HCI Singapore.

2. We need your kind advice on renewal of passport of our child. Currently she is in India and we can't go to India due to the Covid restrictions in Singapore. Kindly advice. Thank you.

3. My daughter’s passport is expiring in slightly over one year. She is applying for her bachelors courses overseas and the universities are asking for the passport. We had anticipated this and therefore had written a mail to you. Please advice whether we can apply now for reissue of her passport.

Ans: Applicant may apply for passport by giving a letter stating his / her reason for an early renewal, provided the applicant is residing in Singapore at the time of submission.

4. How will I know if my Passport is ready for collection?

Ans: For Passport status enquiry, kindly visit the link https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in/ Once the status shows that your passport has been printed, then you may collect it from BLS after 2 working days. It normally takes 7 to 10 working days after submission.

5. Hi. How can I get my Indian passport renewed on emergency basis?

Ans: You may approach BLS for Tatkal Passport service. This typically takes 3 working days for issuance.You may also visit HCI by booking an appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website. Kindly visit our website – www.hcisingapore.gov.in and look up ‘Passport Services’ for detailed information.

6. Need to apply for a birth certificate for a child born in Singapore to Indian parents. Could you please let me know the procedure?

Ans: Parents may approach Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, Singapore to obtain a Birth Certificate for children born in Singapore. Once this is done, please apply to the High Commission for registration of birth and issuance of an Indian passport. If you have any specific questions, please email us at madad.singapore@gmail.com

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III. POLICE CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE

IV. CONSULAR SERVICES

V. POWER OF ATTORNEY & ATTESTATION

1. I need to apostille my Singapore NRIC. I have already got it notarised by a lawyer and attested by MFA. Please advise if I need an appointment to come to HCI for this service.

Ans: For Attestation services you may approach the BLS centre. You will need to make an appointment before you submit your application. If you require Tatkaal (Emergency) Service, you may also visit HCI by booking an appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website.

2. Sir/Madam, I understand that we need to have an affidavit attested by HCI. Should I directly come to HCI office or go to BLS office. Kindly advice. Thank you.

Ans: For affidavit attestations, you may approach BLS with the original document and copies in person. However, if you are a foreign national you will be required to notarise your document before approaching BLS. For further details Click here

3. I hold a LTVP. I am currently employed with NTU. I need to attest my employment letter. My university has a system of issuing computer-generated letters. I approached BLS and they said HR needs to sign the letter. However, there is no such system here since 2018. Everything is online. May I ask if the HCI can attest the computer- generated letter? I had got a similar letter attested 2 years back at the HCI. It will be really helpful if you could advise.

Thanks.

Ans: You will first need to get the computer-generated documents attested by the Singapore Law Academy, after which HCI Singapore can endorse it for you.

4. My worker needs to get the judge’s endorsement to apply for a loan in India. Does he need an appointment to enter High Commission of India for the consular section to endorse the declaration letter from the company? Please advise.

Ans: To know all the details regarding the attestation procedure, documents required, fees, processing time and application centre: Click here .

For appointments at HCI, please book through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website.

5. I need to know the procedure for documents attestation. Please advise.

Ans: The High Commission attests copies of original documents submitted to it without certifying authenticity of contents. Certificates originating/issued in India are required to be duly Attested/Apostilled by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (Ref: http://mea.gov.in/apostille.htm and https://esanad.nic.in) prior to their presentation for further attestation by the High Commission (if required). Documents such as Birth certificate, Marriage certificate, Education certificate, salary certificate, NRI certificate, Power of Attorney, Affidavits etc. often need attestation by the High Commission. Application form for these services is available on the website www.hcisingapore.gov.in and at the BLS Passport Application Centres and the High Commission.

Documents Required:

Form duly filled in (available with Passport Application Centres and at the High Commission)
Original documents with 2 sets of copies
Photocopy of Identity Card (NRIC/EP/WP) and Indian Passport (first and last pages) along with the original for verification.
Fees, processing time and application centre: Click here

Applicants requiring attestation on foreign documents such as a Singapore Passport, National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) etc. will need to get these documents notarized first and then submit them along with photocopies. Details of notaries are available on http://www.sal.org.sg/

Documents pertaining to a company or commercial establishment such as Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Article of Association, Bidding of Tenders, Attestation of will, Grants of Probate, Incorporation of Company, Minutes of meeting etc. are required to be attested first by all of the following authorities before submission for attestation. For notarial attestation, please produce a company letter explaining the purpose for attestation and references in India.

A Notary Public
The Singapore Academy of Law
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For emergency service, please apply at the High Commission directly with an additional emergency processing fee of S$100.00 in CASH.

6. Hi Sir/ Madam, I want to get an attestation done by the Embassy. I tried BLS but they don't have our appointment until a month later. I need to get the attestation done urgently. Can I apply at the Embassy directly? Pls let me know.

Ans: For tatkaal services, please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website. Please be informed that additional fees apply for such services. You may visit our website (https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/) for detailed information on document requirements.

7. I need to urgently sign off a power of attorney for a property in India. Please advise how I can get this done.

Ans: For same day service, please apply at High Commission directly with additional emergency processing fee of S$100.00 in CASH.

For documents required, fees, processing time and application centre: Click here

8. Good Day!! Want to execute power of attorney at the HCI. Can I come any day? Please advise.

Ans: To come to HCI for submission, please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website. For details on the documents required, fees, processing time and application centre: Click here

9. May I know if I can come down directly to HCI office for attestation of power of attorney document? Please advise. Thanks

Ans: For Attestation services you may approach BLS. You will need to make an appointment before you submit your application. If you are unable to get an appointment, you may kindly write to passport.singapore@mea.gov.in

If you require Tatkaal (Emergency) Service you may please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website. (Additional Tatkaal fees may be applicable).

10. Hi, need help for GPA (POWER OF ATTORNEY document) attestation. How can I book the appointment?

If you require Tatkaal (Emergency) Service, you may walk in to HCI on any working day between 9.15am to 11.30am for this service. (Additional Tatkaal fees may be applicable).

11. Sir, this is regarding the affidavit to be made about sponsoring college admissions of my niece in India as NRI and also defining the relationship. Since this is urgent, can I get a special appointment for the same? Also, please let me know what documents are needed for the same. Thank you.

Ans: The High Commission issues certificates confirming Non Resident Indian (NRI) status to Indian nationals who have resided in Singapore for over 6 months, for the purpose of college admission, loan application etc. The Application form can be downloaded from our website http://www.hcisingapore.gov.in and submitted along with the following documents (forms are also available free of charge at Passport Application Centres and at the High Commission).

Documents required:

Letter from the employer mentioning period of stay in Singapore or you can provide a copy of Singapore NRIC.
Original passport with evidence of first entry into Singapore and photo copies there of.
For details regarding fees, processing time and application centre: Click here
For appointments at HCI Singapore, you may please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System” available on our website.

12. Where do I get the Power of Attorney(POA) format, does the High Commission of India help in drafting ?

Ans: POA has to be drafted by the applicant or may get assistance from any notary/bank/financial institutions/ respective authorities in India before submitting for attestation to High Commission of India. The High Commission does not help in drafting the POA.

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VI. LIFE CERTIFICATE

1. Would like to know whether life certificate can be issued for a pensioner drawing Central Govt. pension in India. Please advise.

Ans: HCI Singapore will endorse Life Certificates for Central Govt Pensioners. They will need to produce the Life Certificate in the prescribed format ( issued by the Govt. Body) along with their PPO (Pension Payment Order)or Service Book, Indian Passport and Singapore ID card. Applicants may approach HCI for this service on any working day between 9.15am to 11.30am.

2. Dear Madam/Sir, I am writing this on behalf of my Grandmother who is an Indian Citizen on Long Term Visit Pass here in Singapore. For her pension processing in India, she is required to submit a Life Certificate. I have a few questions as follows:

1. Is a prior appointment needed before coming down to the High Commission?

2. What are the documents required for issuance of the Life Certificate?

3. My grandmother is wheelchair bound. Previously we were allowed to drive in from main gate. Can we still do that? Thank you.

Ans: Yes you will need to book an appointment prior to your visit to HCI. You may please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System”available on our website.

Your grandmother will need to produce the Life Certificate in the prescribed format (issued by the Govt. Body) along with her PPO (Pension Payment Order) or Service Book, Indian Passport and Singapore IC card. She may arrive at HCI for this service on the appointed day between 9.15am to 11.30am. Wheelchair bound applicants may approach our security guard for assistance with entry to HCI premises. (He can be reached at 62382538)

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VII. VISA SERVICES

Frequently asked questions on Visa

1) Do I need a visa to go to India?

Yes, all foreigners, except citizens of Nepal and Bhutan (in limited circumstances) need a valid Visa to enter India by Air, Sea, or Land ports. Presently, All Visa applicants are required to follow Covid-19 protocol as declared by Ministry of Health and family Welfare, Government of India and respective state governments where one is travelling. Please ensure that you are updated on these protocols.

2) Can I get a visa on arrival to enter India?

No. There is no facility for visas on arrival in India except for nationals of Japan, UAE and South Korea in limited circumstances and with conditions as applicable under the bilateral agreements. Foreign nationals are expected to obtain an e-visa or a regular visa.

3) Does India have Electronic Visa (E-Visa) facility?

Yes. E-visa facility is available for the purposes of Tourism, Business, Conference and Medical treatment to nationals of certain countries. For more details including the complete list of countries whose citizens are eligible for E-visa, visit the link https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

4) I have applied for e-visa and want to get it early as I have a family emergency. Can you process the visa urgently?

E-visa facility is not controlled or administered or facilitated by the High Commission of India. For e-visa related queries and issues please contact e-visa help desk at their e-mail IDs - indian-evisa@gov.in or indiatvoa@gov.in . High Commission of India, Singapore has no control over the processing of e-visa applications and accepts and processes only regular visa applications. E-Visa applications are dealt handled directly from MHA, New Delhi.

5) I have a valid Indian visa in my old passport, and now my passport is changed. Can I transfer my visa from my old passport to new passport?

There is no provision for transfer of valid Indian visa from old or expired passport to the new passport. However, applicant may carry the old or expired passport carrying valid Indian visa alongwith the new passport for travel to India, provided all the personal particulars remain same on the two passports and the visa.

6) How to apply for a Regular Paper visa to India?

Visa applicants may apply online for a Regular visa (relevant category) at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in and thereafter, a printout of the application form may be submitted in person at any of the BLS International centres on any working day (09:00 AM to 01:00 PM) without appointment, along with requisite documents as given in our website https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/

After filling up the form, Applicants are required to take a printout of the duly filled up online form and submit the signed copy in person at the authorized Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) M/s BLS International Services S Pte Ltd, along with requisite documents. Application is to be submitted along with a recent passport-size color photograph (size 2" x 2", white background) not more than 6 months old and the applicable visa fee in cash. All visa applications should be accompanied by the original Passport, with validity of more than six months, a copy of the personal particulars page of the passport and a copy of the IC copy (NRIC/FIN, Re-entry permit, EP, S Pass, or Work Permit). Minimum two visa blank pages should be available to stamp the visa. Beside above, additional documents as per category of Visa applied should be submitted (please refer to our website).

NOTE: Kindly provide your latest and complete contact details on the visa form. Suppression of facts and false/incomplete/inaccurate information will not only result in delay/denial of the visa but may also debar the applicant from getting any future Visa in the future. Visa application may be accepted, modified, or refused by the High Commission of India and its decision in the matter shall be final. The High Commission reserves the right to withhold any application submitted for an in-depth examination and may ask for additional documents. Personal interviews by the Visa Officer with applicants may be required in some cases. Applicants are advised not to book tickets before getting Visa, and merely booking tickets will not be considered for early issuance or fast-tracking the Visa process.

7) How do I fill up the online form for a regular/paper Visa? Please tell the steps.

While filling the Regular Visa application form application, all applicants are requested to visit the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ for applying regular/ paper visas online and follow the steps given below

a) Open the website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ and click on the Online Visa Application Registration button given below.

b) A separate window opens and a Temporary Application ID is provided. You need to fill up all the details online and continue to the subsequent pages till you finish.

c) On the last page please upload your recent photo. For details of photo, click on the Photo Requirement button on the left side the home page.

d) The application form completed in all respects and submitted successfully online, may be printed and thereafter the hard copy of the application form may be submitted in person at any of the M/s BLS International centres on any working day (between 09:00 AM to 01:00 PM) without appointment, alongwith requisite documents as given in our website https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/

8) Can you help me with location of Indian Visa Application Centre/ Ms BLS International to submit the Visa application form?

M/s BLS International Services S Pte Ltd is currently the only authorized Outsourced Service Provider for all Consular/ Passport/OCI and Visa Services for HCI Singapore. For all Visa related queries/ questions you may contact M/s BLS International directly at their customer care number +65-31635611 and +65-31632615 in normal working hours and +65-84020819, for any emergency, after office hours. You may also contact them at their e-mail : infosg@blsinternational.net. Their application Centres are located at two places in Singapore –

a)Anson Road

BLS International Services S Pte Ltd

Unit 30 - 08, International Plaza

10 Anson Road

Singapore, 079903

b)Little India

BLS International Services S Pte Ltd

Unit 14 - 02/04/05

Sim Lim Tower

10 Jalan Basar

Singapore, 208787

9) How do I retrieve the visa application form if I have not completed it?

At the start and on each subsequent page of the online form, a unique temporary ID is generated at the top of the page. This number must be correctly noted for you to be able to retrieve your application before it is printed.

10) What is the processing time for a Visa application at HCI Singapore?

Normally Visa is issued within 3-5 working days after submission. Applications of certain nationalities and categories need to be referred to Delhi or to our missions abroad, and we are required to await the response/ clearances. Such case takes a bit longer for which no fixed timeframe can be given. Submission of incomplete documents also delays the visa process. Please be advised that Visa is subject to approval. Applicants should not purchase air tickets before obtaining the visa. The High Commission of India cannot be held responsible for applications which are not finalized in time for your intended date of departure.

11) I want to visit India for sight seeing and tourism. What visa should I apply? What is the procedure?

You may apply for a regular tourist visa. Please note that tourist visa is neither extendable nor can be used for other purposes including any type of work/employment/contract/ business in India. The applicant may apply online for a Regular Tourist Visa at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in and thereafter, a print-out of the application form may be submitted in person at any of the BLS International centres on any working day (09:00 AM to 01:00 PM) without appointment alongwith requisite documents as given in our website https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/ .

12) Can I get medical treatment or do a short time job or attend a business meeting on a tourist visa in India?

A tourist visa is strictly meant for recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives. Please note that tourist visa is neither extendable nor can be used for other purposes including any type of work/employment/contract/ business in India. An employment visa should be applied for taking up any job in India and a business visa should be applied for any business meetings in India. Similarly, a medical visa should be obtained, for purposes of treatment.

13) What is the difference between Tourist Visa and Entry Visa?

A person of Indian origin, who does not possess an OCI card, and also the spouse, and children of such person are eligible for Entry Visa and must apply for Entry Visa instead of Tourist Visa. An Entry Visa has far fewer restrictions than Tourist Visa. Entry visas are extendable in India through FRROs, whereas Tourist Visas are non-extendable.

14) How to check visa validity? When will my visa be valid from?

The visa validity is printed on the visa. The period of validity of regular visa is calculated from the date of issue and not from the date of travel. Visas are not issued with a future date to match the applicant’s itinerary.

15) I am an Indian origin person/ Spouse of Indian Passport/ OCI card holder and want to apply for a longer duration of Visa. What visa should I apply?

The applicant may apply online for an Entry Visa at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in . The document required for Entry Visa includes old cancelled Indian Passport copy, Indian Passport renunciation certificate (If applying based upon Indian Origin category), Spouse’s Indian Passport or OCI card copy, birth and/or marriage certificate alongwith a letter from the Indian/ Indian origin spouse, the present Passport copy, Singapore NRIC/FIN Card or/and the other documents supporting the application for an Entry Visa.

16) I want to go to India for Business purposes or Business meetings. What visa should I apply?

You can apply online for a Regular Business Visa at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in along with requisite documents as given in our website https://www.hcisingapore.gov.in/ Primary Documents required for Business Visa to be submitted alongwith hard copy are :

a) Invitation letter from the relevant Indian company and recommendation letter from the Singapore Company are mandatory.

b) Certificate of Incorporation of the Indian company and ACRA details of the Singapore company, if applicable. Any other relevant business documents which are essential to support your reason for requesting Business visa may be also be asked by the Consular Officer and the applicant has to provide the same.

c) One colour photograph in white background (size 2” x 2”) and copy and original of Passport and ICA ID copy.

d) For non-Singaporean nationals, a minimum stay of 02 years in Singapore is required before you can apply for Business visa at HCI Singapore. Applicants have to submit relevant documents to prove the period of stay.

17) How to apply for a student visa?

Student visas are issued for the duration of the course for those foreign national students who want to pursue regular academic courses in India in any recognized institution. Duly signed applications are to be submitted along with a Letter of admission from a recognized Indian educational institution with duration of the course, Letter of recommendation for issuance of Student Visa to the foreign national students, Proof of Payment of school/college Fees, and one recent passport size photograph. Visa officer may ask for additional documents, if required, depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant.

18) How to apply for an Employment visa?

Visa Application Form for a regular Employment Visa should be filled out and signed by the applicant. Non-Singapore national applicants must be working in Singapore for more than 2 years to apply for an Employment Visa in HCI Singapore. Documentary evidence for the same has to be produced along with the application (Previous IC Copies/ Employment letter from current employer for more than 2 years/ experience letter from the previous employer stating the duration of work etc). Additionally, Employment Visa applicants are required to submit the following documents, as applicable :

i) Applicants are required to submit proof of contract/employment/engagement signed by both parties (i.e. employee and employer). Income must be more than INR 16.25 Lakhs (INR 1.625 million) per annum except for the exempted category. It is to be noted that salary should be mentioned clearly in INR also in the contract.

ii) Company Letter from India should mention Name, designation, Job title, Place of posting, and Duration.

iii) Company Letter from Singapore should mention Name, designation, Job title, Place of posting, and Duration.

iv) Certificate of Incorporation (Certificate given by the Government of India to the Indian Company)

v) Previous FRRO registration, if seeking renewal of Visa.

vi) Highest educational certificate.

vii) Experience Certificate.

viii) Resume/CV of the applicant.

ix) Visa applicants are advised to submit their previous cancelled passport along with existing valid passport while processing the visa application

19) I have to participate in a Conference / Seminar / Workshop in India. Which visa should I apply for?

You should apply for a Conference Visa along with an invitation letter from event organizers and requisite clearances from competent authorities for holding the event including Political Clearance from Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India (Mandatory) and event clearance from Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India (if applicable).

20) Do I need a Transit Visa for changing flights/ airports in India to travel to my final destination?

Transit Visa for India is NOT required if you are not leaving the flight or the designated transit area of Indian airports, where it does not involve crossing the Indian Immigration. Transit Visa is needed if you are required to cross the Indian immigration or going to leave the designated transit area of the airport or going from the international to domestic terminal of any Indian airport or if you are having a short stay in India for up to 72 hours en-route to another foreign destination. You should have a confirmed air ticket for the onward journey before applying for Transit Visa.

21) I am going to participate in a sports event (such as IPL, ISL, IBL etc) in India. Which visa should I apply?

All sportspersons, Sports officials, Coaches and trainers going to India for participation in commercial/ non-commercial sporting events accompanying the players need to apply for Business (B-3, Sports) visa. The online application form for a regular paper visa at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ may be filled and thereafter, applicants need to submit their application at BLS International centre, alongwith a copy of the clearance for the event/ applicant participation granted by Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (Sports department), Ministry of Home Affairs and Political Clearance by MEA, if applicable. Additionally, the applicant needs to submit the invitation letter issued to the foreign sports team and sports persons to visit India by the concerned Sports Federation/ Association in India, recommendation letter for Visa from local sports body/ organization alongwith other relevant documents.

Foreign nationals who are taken on contract to play in commercial sports events in India like IPL, ISL, IBL etc with remuneration may also apply for multiple entry, Business (B-3 Sports) Visa. Such foreign nationals shall also be required to comply with all the statutory obligations like payment of taxes.

22) I have to go to India for Internship with Educational Institution/NGO/ Business House. Which visa should I apply?

You may apply for a Student Visa (S-6) along with a copy of a letter from the Indian company / educational institution / NGO, clearly indicating the period of internship. Interns sponsored by AIESEC for social or community work in NGOs and for project-based work in companies may also apply for Intern Visa.

23) I intend to travel not immediately, but at a much later date. Can my visa be issued to coincide with the date of my travel?

No. There is no system of issuing post-dated Visas and the validity of regular visas starts from the date of issue and not from the date of your proposed Entry/actual entry into India.

24) I had applied for an Indian visa but I have changed my mind. Can I claim a refund of the visa fee?

Visa fees are non-refundable. Once the visa application is accepted, the visa processing fee cannot be refunded/ reclaimed even if the visa is refused/ not granted or in case the application is withdrawn by the applicant.

25) I have to travel to India in an emergency. Is there any extra charge for the urgent processing of visa applications?

The Emergency Visa service is only for passport holders of Indian origin and their family members required to visit India due to a genuine family emergency, such as critical illness or humanitarian emergencies like death/ major accidents of immediate family members. Documentary evidence will need to be provided and the applicant will be charged an emergency service fee, if applicable. In such cases, applicants may approach M/s BLS International with Visa application for an Entry Visa.

26) How do I withdraw my application and will I get a refund?

If you wish to withdraw your application you are required to visit our Out Sourced Service Provider M/s BLS International and submit your written application/ request stating the reason for withdrawal. HCI will consider your request and it may take 1-2 working days. As per our policy, visa fees are not refundable.

27) What activities are permissible on a ‘Tourist’ Visa?

A tourist visa is meant strictly for recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives. Please note that tourist visa is neither extendable nor can be used for other purposes including any type of work/employment/contract/ business in India. No other activity is permissible on a Tourist Visa.

28) Can a person holding Tourist Visa indulge in Business activities?

No. If a person is holding a ‘Tourist’ Visa and is found to be involved in any other activities including Business, action will be taken against him/her for violations of Visa rules and he/she may be deported and/or refused further entry into India.

29) What are the regulations to apply for Indian Visa for applicants holding Dual Nationality or Dual Passport holders?

We expect applicants holding dual nationality or dual passport holders, to use one nations passport only for travel to India. This would smoothen your immigration procedures while arriving/departing from India. Applicants are also required to declare their dual passport at relevant column in the Visa application form and both passports need to be submitted for visa processing. Applicants holding Pakistani Passport and Passport of any other country are requested to apply for visa on their Pakistan Passport only and both passports need to be submitted. Visa will be issued on the Pakistan passport only, for such cases.

30) I went to M/s BLS International centre with all documents but I faced problem in submission and could not submit the Visa application. Whom should I contact?

For all Visa services you may write to our HCI Visa Team at verification.singapore@mea.gov.in or visa.singapore@mea.gov.in with scanned copies of all relevant supporting documents, passport and personal details. As a policy, we deal directly with the applicants and do not entertain any third party/ travel agents/ travel assistants.

31) I am a Diplomatic /Official/ UNLP Passport holder and want to visit India for official meetings/ duties. Whom and where should we approach for submission of visa application?

Visa applications of all Diplomatic/ Official/ UNLP Passport holders seeking Diplomatic/Official/UN Visas, for official trip/ meetings to India are accepted at HCI office (31 Grange Road, Singapore-239702). Applicants may seek appointment for submission or send their queries, if any, to visa.singapore@mea.gov.in . Visa applications of all Diplomatic/ Official/ UNLP Passport holders are accepted in person by us on all working days between 09:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

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VIII. OCI

FAQ’s ON OCI (03/11/2021)

1. What is the procedure and documents required to apply for an OCI Registration?

Ans: Application for registration as OCI is to be made online through the website of the Ministry of Home Affairs at https://www.ociservices.gov.in/ . Instructions therein may be perused carefully, particularly with respect to supporting documents required so that there is no mistake in submission of the application. Once the application form has been filed online, copy of the printout of the same is required to be submitted at our Authorised Service Centres. Please note that submission for OCI registration is via appointment only. Please book your appointment for submission at www.blsindia.sg .

2. Can one apply for an OCI Card on spouse basis?

Ans: An applicant can apply for OCI Registration under the category of spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or spouse of foreign origin of an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholder and whose marriage has been registered and subsisted for a continuous period of not less than two years immediately preceding the presentation of the application. It is advised to include/add spouse name in the passports/ OCI Card, where possible, for smooth processing of the application. A sponsor letter by the Spouse of Indian Origin is to be furnished along with the OCI application. Applicants who are of Indian origin are advised to apply for the OCI Card on their own merit and not on spouse basis.

3. Is an OCI cardholder a citizen of India?

Ans: The OCI Cardholder is a foreign national holding a passport of a foreign country and is NOT a Citizen of India.

4. I just turned 20yrs, and had my OCI issued to me when I was 17 years. Should I get my OCI card re- issued? I have since been issued with a new passport.

Ans: Yes. OCI registration certificate has got to be re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completion of 20 years of age.
OCI Miscellaneous services have been made available on the Ministry's website https://www.ociservices.gov.in/ and can be availed by applying online and submitting hard copy of the application along with the requisite fee, photograph and enclosures to the Authorised Service Centres. Submission at the appointment centres is via appointment only. Appointments may be booked online at – www.blsindia.sg

5. Under what circumstances should existing OCI Cardholders apply for Re-issue of their OCI Cards?

Ans: Existing OCI Cardholders may apply for Re-issuance of their OCI Cards in the following contingencies: -

Reason for Service	Option to be Selected at OCI Web Portal
For change of passport after attaining 20 years of age	Select “Change of Passport Particulars” Option
For Lost/ Damaged OCI Booklet and all other particulars remaining the same	Select “Lost/ Damaged OCI Booklet” Option
For Change of name/ nationality and/or change of passport/address/lost/damaged etc.	Select “Change of Personal Particulars” option

6. After renewing my passport, do I have to carry my old passport along with the OCI card while travelling?

Ans: The requirement of carrying old passports, along with the OCI card, has been done away with. Henceforth, an OCI Cardholder travelling on the strength of existing OCI card bearing old passport number is not required to carry the old passport. However, carrying the new (current) passport is mandatory. This is applicable in cases where there is no change in Personal particulars and nationality.

7. I just turned 50 years. Should I get my OCI Card Re-issued? I understand that I only need to update my particulars at the OCI Web Portal? Is my understanding correct?

Ans: Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner upto 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age is dispensed with. An OCI Cardholder is now only required to upload a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the OCI Cardholder and a latest photo on the online system under OCI Miscellaneous Services each time a new passport is issued upto 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. The OCI web portal has been suitably modified under “OCI Miscellaneous Services” to facilitate OCI Cardholders to update details of new Passport and change of address Online. These documents may be uploaded by the OCI Cardholder within three months of receipt of the new passport. This service will be provided on Gratis basis. Existing OCI Cardholders may apply for Online updation of their particulars in the following contingencies:

Reason for Service	Option to be Selected at OCI Web Portal
For change of passport before 20 years of age or for change of passport after 50 years of age	Select “Change of Passport Particulars Option” Only
For change of address/ Occupation	Select “Change of Address/ Occupation” Option only

8. What is the procedure for Online updation of Passport particulars and address change in the recently launched Online Web Portal?

Ans : Detailed instructions to fill the Online Application form and other requirements may be accessed at the MHA website – https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome. The procedure to avail of OCI Miscellaneous Services (Gratis) are -

a.Applicant may apply online on https://ociservices.gov.in and opt for passport/address updation service under the OCI Miscellaneous Services, upload photograph and required documents. These documents may be uploaded by the OCI Cardholder within three months of receipt of the new passport. This service will be provided on Gratis basis.

b.An auto email is sent to the applicant for successful upload of documents.

c.Once the application is granted by the Ministry, details of the new passport, address and contact, as the case may be, get updated in OCI records and an auto email is sent to the applicant informing that changes have been made in his/ her OCI records. This will normally take approx 35-40 days since receipt of acknowledgement of the OCI application on their e-mail.

d.Applicants are advised to await updates on their e-mail directly from the Ministry. No physical copy of OCI will be sent/ provided by the mission.

e.Applicant may check status of their applications online on https://ociservices.gov.in under the “Status Enquiry” section.

f.In the interim, should applicants require to travel to India, they may do so on the strength of their OCI Card and current new passport (provided there are no changes in personal particulars).

9. I would like to inquire regarding the Status of my OCI application which I had done at BLS Singapore more than 2 months ago. Till now I have not received any information on it. How will I know if my OCI is ready for collection? Could you please guide me.

Ans: Please note that OCI cards processing takes about 6-8 weeks, under normal circumstances. The period may be longer due to Covid-19 related problem. For OCI Status Enquiry, please visit the OCI website- www.ociservices.gov.in Click on the Option of OCI- Enquiry and enter your Passport Number and File Reference Number which you will receive in your e-mail after successful registration. A hard copy is also sent by BLS to your address, containing all the details. Once it shows that your OCI card has been received in Singapore, you may collect the OCI Card after 2 working days from the date of receipt. If you are unable to view your status online, you may contact BLS regarding your application at their e-mail - infosg@blsinternational.net or email the High Commission at madad.singapore@gmail.com

10. I have noticed that my online updation of Passport particulars has been updated as I have received acknowledgement email from MHA. May I check on the next steps and if I will be issued with a new card?

Ans. Once Applicants receive email acknowledgement from MHA confirming their particulars have been taken on record, the procedure is complete. No physical copy of OCI will be sent/ provided by the mission. This process typically takes 35-40 days from the date of Acknowledgement by Mission. Applicants may continue using their current OCI Cards along with their current new passport for travel to India.

11. I have just renounced my Indian Citizenship and have applied for my OCI card registration. Will my (pre-existing) PAN card number continue to be usable by me under the OCI status?

Ans: As your Indian PAN Card was issued to you as an Indian national, hence after renunciation of Indian citizenship you may check for getting it changed with the relevant issuing/ controlling authorities in India. For other documents too you may directly contact the issuing authorities for change of nationality details.

12. Can I undertake journalism in India as an OCI Cardholder?

Ans: OCI Cardholders are required to obtain Special Permission from concerned authorities to undertake certain activities in India. In order to make it convenient to such OCI Cardholders, a separate sub-portal under the name “Apply for Special Permission (Only for OCI Cardholders)” has been created in the Online OCI web portal at – https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome. The link has detailed instructions as well as documents required to be submitted. The link would facilitate such OCI cardholders to apply for Special Permission.

13. What is the procedure to collect my OCI Card? Can I authorise my family members to collect the OCI Card on my behalf?

Ans. On completion of preparation of the OCI document, the applicant is required to be present in person with original receipts (provided by BLS and received through courier both) along with his/her foreign passport, PIO card/ OCI Card (if any) for collection of the OCI documents. Applicants are advised to check status of their OCI applications at the OCI website – https://www.ociservices.gov.in/. If status shows that OCI Card has been received in Singapore, applicants are advised to give 2 more working days, before proceeding to HCI for collection. Immediate family members can collect on behalf of other family members, if they have applied together. No OCI document will be sent by Dak/ Post or Mail. OCI Cards will not be issued to applicants who are out of Singapore at the time of collection.

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VI. LIFE CERTIFICATE

1. Would like to know whether life certificate can be issued for a pensioner drawing Central Govt. pension in India. Please advise.

1. Is a prior appointment needed before coming down to the High Commission?

2. What are the documents required for issuance of the Life Certificate?

3. My grandmother is wheelchair bound. Previously we were allowed to drive in from main gate. Can we still do that? Thank you.

Ans: Yes you will need to book an appointment prior to your visit to HCI. You may please book your appointment through our “Online Appointment System”available on our website.

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