OCI process
- Thread starter blueshirt
- Start date
Ottawa and Toronto only accept draft for in-person but Vancouver accepts Debit card. Every office have their own different way of accepting payment, so you have to follow what's mentioned in the link. You can use the youtube video for general understanding purpose but follow the official BLS link for payment info.
I am going to mail my OCI application to the Vancouver consulate as I am in SK. I have to send draft for the fees.
I will get 1 draft for 345 + 7.40 payable to BLS as that is what is mentioned in the https://www.blsindia-canada.com/vancouver-jurisdiction/pdf/Checklist_Information_Booklet_for_OCI_2jun22NN.pdf
Thanks!
I'm sorry to say that the two photographs for walk-in seems more about employment generation for the BLS guy with the photo printer than anything else. In addition to asking for an extra photo, they dug deep and were inspired to ask for my marriage certificate (I was applying for OCI after surrendering my own Indian passport, my spouse has never had an Indian passport). I think most people are just happy to pay for unnecessary services and leave rather than argue.
I was right when I said on Thursday "there is more to the story" , without international allies backing Canada would not have done so, as per yesterdays media reports on US and allies (Five Eyes) intelligence which had shared the evidence and. information with Canada. Link below
https://www.reuters.com/world/shared-intelligence-five-eyes-informed-trudeaus-india-allegation-ctv-news-2023-09-23/
I was wondering if someone can shed some light on the process of postal application for an OCI. Per BLS checklist, they asked for originals and copies of the foreign and Indian passport as well as the citizenship certificate. I'm ok sending the original cdn passport but feel uneasy sending the citizenship certificate since one can't get a new one if lost. Has anyone sent in these original documents and got them back without any issues?
Also, do they only accept applications delivered by Purolator? Their website says, if you're sending a fresh app use pickup and drop for which they're charging $93. I found this charge a daylight robbery cuz the application is getting picked up and delivered within the GTA. Is there a workaround this? I'd appreciate if someone who's gone/going through this process can share his/her experience.
Also, do they only accept applications delivered by Purolator? Their website says, if you're sending a fresh app use pickup and drop for which they're charging $93. I found this charge a daylight robbery cuz the application is getting picked up and delivered within the GTA. Is there a workaround this? I'd appreciate if someone who's gone/going through this process can share his/her experience.
To answer part one of your question, you do not need to send in any original. Just self attested copies including signature and date. I just sent in my package and the BLS phone lady said only copies required.
Second part, I am not sure. I just did the purolator with BLS and paid the $93. Just to be on the safe side just used their courier service.
Appreciate your response. I will do the same and will use their courier to be on the same side like you said.
Has your app been accepted and in processing? Did you have to do two drafts for the fee - one for embassy and other for BLS?
I did make the drive to Brampton BLS but stood in line for 2.5 hours and it didn't move at all. Security told us that they're only taking about 5-10 people a day from the walk-in line and that based on their hours of 8am - 1pm. The priority is given to appts which is around 340 a day.
I don't know if I Toronto BLS is any better. Did you try the walk-in recently?