Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form and OCI Passport Update Guide for Overseas Travellers to India
International travellers planning to visit India must ensure they complete the required travel formalities before departure. One of the most important requirements is filling out the Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form (SDF). Additionally, Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders must update their passport details after renewing their passport to avoid travel complications.
This guide provides the latest information regarding Air Suvidha requirements and OCI passport update procedures for overseas travellers to India.
Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form for International Travellers
All international passengers entering India have to fill up the Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form (SDF) at least 24 hours before their scheduled time of entry into India. Passengers are strongly urged to complete and submit the form before to boarding their flight, ideally during the web check-in procedure, to facilitate a smooth arrival process.
On arrival in India, travellers shall be required to produce the downloaded or saved copy of the completed Self Declaration Form to the International Travel Health Desk or the Immigration Counter, as may be required by the authorities. You must submit all the information requested in the form and it must be correct and full. Incorrect or incomplete submissions may delay your immigration clearance and impact on public health screening processes.
The Air Suvidha Self Declaration Form can be filled online at www.airsuvidha.civilaviation.gov.in
Important Information for OCI Holders
OCI card holders are requested to update the details of their new/renewed passport on the OCI Portal within 90 days of the renewal of the passport.
Update within 90 days: FREE at www.ociservices.gov.in
Applications received beyond 90 days are billed at GBP 23 (excluding VFS charges) In such circumstances, the applicant needs to update the passport details through Miscellaneous Re-Issuance OCI Service via VFS. www.ociservices.gov.in
After receiving a new passport, you need to update your OCI card for which you need to complete the process at the Government of India OCI Services portal. If you submit your update within 90 days after the issue date of the new passport, the service is free (Gratis) and can be done completely online without the requirement for a VFS visit.
If it’s been more than 90 days, or the update is after your 20th birthday, you’ll need to book a VFS Global UK appointment and pay a charge (e.g. £23 High Commission fee plus necessary VFS service fees).
Below 90 Days (Free)
No appointment with VFS necessary. You just need to upload a copy of your new passport and a recent photo/signature in the Miscellaneous Services tab.
Over 90 Days (Chargeable)
£23 penalty and you must arrange a Miscellaneous Service appointment to provide your documents in person at a VFS centre (e.g. London Goswell or Hounslow).
Turning 20 or 50
You must conduct a Miscellaneous Service update through VFS with biometric submission if your new passport was issued after you turned 20 or 50 years old.
Stepwise VFS Appointment Procedure (If Required)
Online Application
Visit OCI Services page, pick OCI Miscellaneous Services and fill the form.
Upload Documents
Upload required documents, your photo and copy of your new passport.
Book Appointment
Visit the VFS Global Appointment Booking page to schedule an appointment.
Visit the Centre
Please bring printed copies of your appointment letter and application together with your original documents to the VFS centre.
OCI Processing Time
Processing time is approximately 25 to 40 days after satisfactory receipt and verification of your documents at VFS centre.
Important Disclaimer
The above is for informational purposes only. Please contact the different organisations (airlines, travel firm and respective government authorities such Indian High Commission, VFS to check you are legally allowed to fly with the documents you need.