{"id":4766,"date":"2023-09-22T14:38:36","date_gmt":"2023-09-22T14:38:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/?page_id=4766"},"modified":"2023-09-26T11:51:01","modified_gmt":"2023-09-26T11:51:01","slug":"overseas-citizen-of-india","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/overseas-citizen-of-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Overseas Citizen of India"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"4766\" class=\"elementor elementor-4766\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-271d3f9 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"271d3f9\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fc0710d elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"fc0710d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<style>\/*! 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elementor - v3.17.0 - 08-11-2023 *\/\n.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block}<\/style>\t\t\t\t<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">\u00a0<\/h2><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Overseas Citizen of India<\/h2><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">NRI Taxation\u00a0<span class=\"breadcrumbs-separator\">\/<\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"post post-page current-item\">E-Filing Your Returns<\/span><\/h3><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d2c2bcc e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"d2c2bcc\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2c3e14b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2c3e14b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<style>\/*! elementor - v3.17.0 - 08-11-2023 *\/\n.elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px}<\/style><h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-large\">Who is eligible to apply?<\/h3>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dd2da21 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"dd2da21\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1f20fc1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1f20fc1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Foreign nationals who met the eligibility criteria to become Indian citizens on January 26, 1950, or were Indian citizens on or after that date, or were residents of territories that became part of India after August 15, 1947, along with their children and grandchildren, are eligible for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) registration. This eligibility extends to minor children as well. It&#8217;s important to note that individuals who have ever held citizenship in Pakistan or Bangladesh are not eligible for OCI status.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3dec33e e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3dec33e\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c1689a2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c1689a2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-large\">Who was eligible to become Citizen of India on 26.01.1950?<\/h3>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-30c880f e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"30c880f\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6d29e1f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6d29e1f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Individuals, as well as their parents or grandparents, who were born in India according to the definition in the Government of India Act, 1935 (as initially enacted), and were ordinarily living in a foreign country on January 26, 1950, were eligible to acquire Indian citizenship.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-646be81 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"646be81\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-216f222 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"216f222\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-large\">Which territories became part of India after 15.08.1947 and from what date?<\/h3>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-988f0b1 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"988f0b1\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-49a68eb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"49a68eb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The regions that were incorporated into India after August 15, 1947, include:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Sikkim on April 26, 1975<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Pondicherry on August 16, 1962<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Dadra &amp; Nagar Haveli on August 11, 1961<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Goa, Daman, and Diu on December 20, 1961<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-829aaec e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"829aaec\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-304b340 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"304b340\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-large\">Can the spouse of the eligible person apply for OCI?<\/h3>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5cb0704 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5cb0704\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Certainly, if the individual meets the eligibility criteria in their own right.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9eacfba e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"9eacfba\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;content_width&quot;:&quot;full&quot;}\" data-core-v316-plus=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cf42960 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"cf42960\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can minor children apply for OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Yes, if either of the parents is eligible for OCI, the child may also be eligible for OCI.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">In what form should a person apply for an OCI and where are the forms available?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A family, including spouses and up to two minor children, can submit a single application using Form XIX, which is available for filing or downloading online.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can application form be filled and submitted on line?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Yes, you must complete Part A of the application form online. Part B can be either downloaded and printed from a computer or filled out by hand in block letters. Afterward, you should submit the printed Part A and Part B of the application form, along with all the necessary documents, to the Indian Mission\/Post\/Office.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What documents have to be submitted with the application?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Each applicant should include the following documents:<\/span><\/p><ol><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Proof of current citizenship.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Documentation demonstrating that either the applicant, their parents, or their grandparents were eligible to become citizens of India at the time the Constitution was enacted, or they belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947, or they were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Proof of the relationship as parent\/grandparent, if their Indian origin is claimed as the basis for granting OCI. This proof may include documents like birth certificates or educational certificates, among others.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The application fee, which should be paid through a Demand Draft, amounts to US $275 for each applicant or its equivalent in the local currency. In the case of applications submitted in India, the fee is Rs. 15,000\/- for general category applicants, Rs. 1,400\/- for PIO card holders, and Rs. 8,000\/- for minor PIO card holders.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">PIO card holders are required to provide a copy of their PIO card along with the application.<\/span><\/li><\/ol><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">These documents may include:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u00a0A copy of the passport.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A copy of the domicile certificate issued by the competent authority.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Any other evidence supporting the request. Typically, applicants can provide a certificate of residence or place of birth for themselves, their parents, or grandparents issued by a First Class Magistrate\/District Magistrate (DM) from the relevant place.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What documents would qualify for &#8220;Any other proof&#8220; for evidence of self or parents or grandparents being eligible for grant of an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Any form of documentary evidence, such as a school certificate, agricultural land ownership certificate, birth certificate, etc., that can reasonably establish eligibility.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">How many copies of application have to be submitted?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Each applicant must submit only one set of application.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Whether applicant(s) have to go in person to submit the application (s)?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">No, applications must be sent by post using either Speed post or Registered post, and courier services are not accepted.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Whether the applicant (s) has to take oath before the Counsel of the Indian Mission\/Post?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">No, the earlier provision related to this has been eliminated.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Where to submit the application?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The application should be submitted to the Indian Mission\/Post in the applicant&#8217;s country of citizenship. If the applicant is not in their country of citizenship, it should be submitted to the Indian Mission\/Post in the country where they are ordinarily residing. If the applicant is in India, the application should be submitted to the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) in cities like Amritsar, Bangalore, Kozhikode, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Thiruvananthapuram, as per the specified jurisdiction of the relevant FRRO office.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can a person apply in the country where he is ordinarily residing?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">Yes<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What are the consequences of furnishing wrong information or suppressing material information?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">All applications will undergo either pre or post-enquiry, depending on whether any adverse information is voluntarily disclosed in the application. If the government discovers that false information was provided or material information was concealed, the previously granted OCI registration will be revoked through an order under section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955. Additionally, the individuals will be blacklisted, resulting in a ban on their entry into India.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What is the fee for application for registration as an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The fee for each applicant is US $ 275 or its equivalent in the local currency. For PIO cardholders, it is US $ 25 or the equivalent in the local currency per applicant.<\/span><br \/><span style=\"color: #000000;\">For applications filed within India, the fee is Rs. 15,000\/- for the general category, Rs. 1,400\/- for PIO cardholders, and Rs. 8,000\/- for minor PIO cardholders, to be paid via Demand Draft.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What is the time taken for registration as OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If there is no adverse information concerning the applicant within 30 days of the application, a decision will be made. However, if adverse information is found, the decision regarding approval or denial will be reached within 120 days.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">If the registration as an OCI is not granted, what amount will be refunded?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If your registration is declined, you will receive a refund of US $250 or its equivalent in local currency. Please note that the US $25 processing fee is non-refundable. However, if you submit your application in India, a processing fee of Rs. 1,400\/- will be non-refundable.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can a PIO Cardholder apply?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Certainly, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria for receiving OCI status, just like any other applicant.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will the PIO Cardholder be granted an OCI registration gratis?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">No, a payment of US $25 or its equivalent in local currency must be submitted along with the application, and in the case of an application submitted in India, a fee of Rs. 1,400\/- is required.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will the PIO card be honored till the time it is valid even after acquisition of an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The surrender of the PIO card to the Indian Mission\/Post\/FRROs is a prerequisite for obtaining the OCI registration certificate and the OCI &#8216;U&#8217; visa sticker.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What will be issued after registration as an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A registration certificate, presented as a booklet, will be provided, along with the attachment of a multiple-entry, multi-purpose OCI &#8216;U&#8217; visa sticker onto the applicant&#8217;s foreign passport. To complete this process, the applicant must present their original passport to the Indian Mission\/Post\/FRROs following receipt of the acceptance letter or after verifying the application status online.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will a separate OCI passport be issued?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will a duplicate certificate of registration as an OCI will be issued?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Indeed, to address this, applicants must submit a request to the Indian Mission\/Post, supported by evidence in the event of a lost certificate. In cases of a mutilated or damaged certificate, applicants should submit an application with the affected certificate. Both types of applications need to be presented to the relevant Indian Mission\/Post\/FRRO, accompanied by a fee of US $100 or its equivalent in local currency, and in the case of applications filed in India, a fee of Rs. 5,500\/-.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will a new OCI visa sticker be pasted on the new foreign passport after the expiry of the old passport?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Certainly, upon payment of the necessary fee, a new OCI &#8216;U&#8217; visa sticker will be provided. However, it&#8217;s important to note that the applicant can retain their old passport with the OCI &#8216;U&#8217; visa sticker alongside their new passport when visiting India. There is no need to apply for a new visa, as the OCI visa is valid for a lifetime.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will the applicant lose his citizenship after registering as an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can a person registered as an OCI travel to protected area\/restricted area without permission?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">No, for such visits, he\/she will be required to apply for PAP\/RAP.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Would the Indian civil\/criminal laws be applicable to persons registered as OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Indeed, this requirement applies for the duration that the OCI is residing in India.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can a person registered as an OCI be granted Indian citizenship?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Certainly, in accordance with the regulations outlined in section 5(1)(g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955, an individual who has been registered as an OCI for a period of 5 years and has lived in India for at least 1 year during that 5-year timeframe becomes eligible to apply for Indian Citizenship.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will an OCI be granted gratis to certain categories of people?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can OCI be granted to foreign nationals who are not eligible for OCI, but married to persons who are eligible for OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will foreign-born children of PIOs be eligible to become an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Yes, this eligibility applies if at least one of the parents is eligible to acquire OCI status.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What are the benefits of an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Certainly, here are the benefits granted to an OCI in a rephrased form:<\/span><\/p><ol><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">An OCI is entitled to a lifelong, multiple-entry visa for visiting India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">They are exempt from the requirement to report to the Police authorities regardless of the duration of their stay in India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">In financial, economic, and educational domains, they enjoy equal status with NRIs, except for the acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Registered Overseas Citizens of India have the same status as Non-Resident Indians in matters related to inter-country adoption of Indian children.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">They are charged the same tariffs as resident Indian nationals for domestic air travel within India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The entry fee for national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India is identical to that of domestic Indian visitors.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">They receive parity with Non-Resident Indians regarding entry fees for national monuments, historical sites, and museums in India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">They have the right to pursue certain professions in India as per the relevant Acts, including doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, advocates, architects, and chartered accountants.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">They are treated the same as Non-Resident Indians when appearing for exams like the All India Pre-medical Test or similar tests for admission under the provisions of relevant Acts.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">State Governments should recognize OCI registration booklets as valid identification for services provided to OCIs. In cases where proof of residence is required, OCIs can provide an affidavit attested by a notary public, specifying a particular address as their place of residence in India. They may also include their overseas residential address and email address in the affidavit if necessary.<\/span><\/li><\/ol><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Will any other benefit be granted to an OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Additional advantages for OCIs will be communicated by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) as per the provisions of Section 7B(1) of the Citizenship Act, 1955.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Is the OCI entitled to voting rights?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Is the OCI entitled to hold constitutional post in India?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Is the OCI entitled to hold Government posts in India?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Except for the positions designated by a directive from the Central Government, no other exceptions apply.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">If a person is already holding more than one nationality, can he\/she apply for OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">Yes.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What are the advantages of the OCI when compared to PIO cardholders?<\/span><\/h3><ol><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">An OCI enjoys a lifelong visa with unrestricted travel privileges to India, whereas a PIO cardholder&#8217;s visa is valid for only 15 years.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A PIO cardholder must register with local Police authorities if their stay in India exceeds 180 days during a single visit, whereas an OCI is exempt from such registration requirements regardless of the length of their stay in India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">An OCI is specifically granted the right to potentially become an Indian Citizen as outlined in Section 5(i) and (ii) of the Citizenship Act, 1955, whereas a PIO cardholder does not possess this entitlement.<\/span><\/li><\/ol><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Whether an OCI be entitled to apply for and obtain a normal Indian passport which is given to a citizen of India?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Indian Passports are exclusively issued to individuals who hold Indian citizenship.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Whether nationals of Commonwealth countries are eligible for the OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Indeed, they may be eligible if they meet the specified criteria.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can a person renounceOCI?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Certainly, to declare their intention of renunciation, individuals must submit Form XXII to the Indian Mission\/Post where their OCI registration was initially granted. Once the declaration is received, the Indian Mission\/Post\/FRROs will issue an acknowledgment in the form of Form XXII A.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Do the applicantswho have applied on the earlier prescribed application form have to apply again in the new form?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">No new applications or fees will be required for the consideration of all such requests for OCI registration.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can an OCI holder undertake Research work in India?<\/span><\/h3><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Yes, provided they obtain prior approval or special permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Are foreign military personnel eligible to receive OCI status?<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">No, foreign military personnel, whether currently serving or retired, are not eligible to be granted OCI status.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Whether civil Govt. servant working in Ministry of Defence as IT engineers\/civil contractors entitled for OCI?<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Person of Indian Origin (PIO)<\/span><\/h3><p style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; line-height: 25.1pt; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 16.75pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13.5pt; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000;\">No.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Who is a PIO?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A Person of Indian Origin (PIO) is an individual who is a citizen of another country but has Indian ancestry dating back at least four generations.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What is a PIO card?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A PIO card is granted to individuals of Indian descent, excluding Bangladeshi and Pakistani nationals, who hold foreign passports.<\/span><\/p><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Who is eligible for a PIO card?<\/span><\/h3><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Individuals who have held an Indian passport at any point.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Those whose ancestors, up to the previous four generations, were established residents in India and did not relocate to Pakistan or Bangladesh.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">People whose spouse is either an Indian citizen or a person of Indian origin.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">What advantages does the PIO card carry?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Enjoying the same rights as NRIs, making them eligible to:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Purchase non-agricultural and plantation properties in India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Enroll their children in all educational institutions in India under the NRI quota.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Apply for various housing schemes offered by LIC, state governments, and other government agencies.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Enter India without the need for a visa.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Who issues the PIO card?<\/span><\/h3><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">All Indian Embassies, High Commissions, and Indian Consulates located overseas. An authorized officer at the designated Indian Mission has the authority to issue a PIO card.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Foreigners Regional Registration offices in major cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Joint Secretary (Foreigners) within the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Which documents are required to apply for the card?<\/span><\/h3><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">All pertinent documents that support the assertion of Indian ancestry.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">In the case of children, a photocopy of the parent&#8217;s passport if the parent is still an Indian citizen, or a copy of the parent&#8217;s old passport or birth certificate. \u2022 Four passport-size photographs, featuring a front view.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">What is the validity of the card?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Validity for an entire lifetime.<\/span><\/p><h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Are there any restrictions for card holders?<\/span><\/h3><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> They do not possess political privileges.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">They are not authorized to engage in pursuits such as mountaineering, missionary work, and research activities, including those requiring a special permit under PAP\/RAP regulations.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3 style=\"text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph; background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 20.95pt 0cm;\"><span lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 23.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: Figtree, serif; color: #000000; letter-spacing: -0.35pt;\">Can PIO card holders apply for citizenship?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Indeed, according to the Citizenship Act, the applicant is required to have a residence history in India of at least 7 years prior to submitting the application.<\/span><\/p><h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Can the card be withdrawn?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Yes, if:<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The PIO card was obtained through fraudulent means, the concealment of facts, or false representation.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The cardholder&#8217;s activities in India are in violation of the country&#8217;s laws and the Indian Constitution.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The cardholder is a citizen of a nation that is in a state of war with India or supports another country engaged in aggressive acts against India.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The PIO has been found culpable of engaging in acts of terrorism, arms and ammunition smuggling, or narcotics trafficking.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The cardholder has been sentenced in India to a prison term of up to one year or fined up to Rs.10,000.<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The presence of the cardholder in India is detrimental to the country&#8217;s interests.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u00a0 Overseas Citizen of India NRI Taxation\u00a0\/\u00a0E-Filing Your Returns \u00a0 Who is eligible to apply? Foreign nationals who met the eligibility criteria to become Indian citizens on January 26, 1950, or were Indian citizens on [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_canvas","meta":{"footnotes":""},"rishi__cb_customizer_meta":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4766"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4766"}],"version-history":[{"count":31,"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4766\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5229,"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4766\/revisions\/5229"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bdsadvisories.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4766"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}