The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card grants overseas Indians long-term visa-free travel and stay in India. It gives them privileges typically not available to foreign nationals. OCI cardholders should keep their cards up to date for seamless entry to India. The OCI card is a lifelong visa for people of Indian origin living abroad, but it’s not dual citizenship. Travelers who qualify for an OCI Card (Overseas Citizens of India Card) must keep their card up to date. The card allows easy entry into India whenever they return. OCI holders will want to make sure that they always have the card on them. Additionally, it must be valid, and it should not get stolen.
The rules around who can get an OCI card are complex. Eligible people must hold passports and citizenship in other countries. Please note that the scheme excludes citizens of Pakistan and Bangladesh. They must also have at least one of the following circumstances be true: They were citizens of India on 26th January 1950 or eligible to become citizens any time after that. They were citizens of a territory that became part of India at the time or after 15th August 1947. The rules apply to people who belong to territories that joined the sub-continent after the country became independent. They are a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild of someone who qualifies under the circumstances listed above. A minor child whose parents qualify under the circumstances listed above. A minor child with one or both parents currently holding Indian citizenship. Spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder with a registered marriage lasting at least two years. However, foreigners with OCI status through marriage lose this status upon divorce. Applying for the Overseas Citizenship of India scheme involves paying an application fee, submitting required documents, and waiting for verification.
The following benefits are available to the cardholders: They can enter India as often as they like and stay as long as they want without obtaining a visa. They will also have parity with Indian citizens in everything except their ability to buy certain agricultural or plantation properties. It can simplify travel for people with families in India or with business interests. Registering with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) is unnecessary upon arrival in India. There is no need to register for extended stays unless the cardholders change their permanent address or job. They will have to pay the same domestic airfare as the Indian citizens. However, OCI holders have limitations, such as not being able to vote, hold certain offices, or access government jobs. They also require permits for certain restricted areas and activities.
