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• New Rules For OCI Cardholders In 2022 - SBNRI  

New Rules For OCI Cardholders In 2022 – SBNRI

In the last couple of months, the Government of India has made many changes in policies with respect to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) . Here is everything you need to know about new rules for OCI cardholders and how could they impact them.

Ministry of Home Affairs Notification

On 4th March, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs notified new rules for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) under Section 7B of the Citizenship Act 1955. The new rules supersede three previous notifications issued in April 2005, January 2007 and January 2009. While the new rules extend some benefits for OCIs cardholders, they impose restrictions on them from undertaking certain activities without prior permission.  

Impacts of New Rules for OCI Cardholders

1. Grant of multiple entry lifelong visa for visiting India: The OCI card gives cardholders multiple entry lifelong visas to India for any purpose. However, OCI cardholders will need to seek prior permission of the Foreigner Regional Registration Officers (FRRO) to undertake the following activities:

• Conduct research work
• Any missionary or Tablighi activities
• Visit protected or restricted or prohibited areas within India as notified by the Central Government of any competent authority.

2. Parity with Indian nationals: OCI cardholders will have parity with Indian nationals with respect to tariffs in airfares in domestic sectors in India and in entry fees charged for visiting national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, national monuments, historical sites and museums in India.

3. Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): OCI cardholders will also have parity with NRIs related to inter-country adoption of children, eligibility to appear for all entrance tests against NRI seats, but not for admission against any seat reserved for NRIs. 

4. OCI card holders need to apply for a new card once their passport is renewed for the first time after their 20th birthday.

5. However, after reaching the age of 50 years, they are no longer required to obtain a new card whenever they receive a new passport.

PAN-Aadhaar Linking for NRIs/OCIs

According to the directive from the Income Tax Department, it is compulsory to link Aadhaar with the PAN card . Failing which could have serious consequences i.e. your PAN card will become inoperative and you will be liable to pay a penalty of Rs. 1000 as per the Finance Bill 2021. The recent PAN-Aadhaar linking deadline alarmed not only resident Indians but also OCIs and NRIs.

But the moot question is whether OCIs and NRIs are also required to link their PAN with Aadhaar? The Government of India notified (vide Notification No. 37/2017, F. No. 370133/6/2017-TPL) that the provisions of Section 139AA shall not apply to Individuals who don’t have an Aadhaar number or the Enrolment ID and:

• Current residents of the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Meghalaya.
• Non-Resident Indians as defined by the Income Tax Act, 1961.
• Individuals aged equal to or above anytime during the previous year.
• Non-Indian citizens.

Find more details here: PAN Aadhaar Linking for NRI: Is it Mandatory? (New Deadline 30/06/2021)

Old passports not required for India travel 

According to a government notification, Indian diaspora holding Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cards don’t need to carry their old, expired passports to travel to India. The OCI card is issued to people of Indian origin globally which enables them to enjoy almost all privileges as an Indian national, except for government services, right to vote and purchase of agricultural land. Benefits of having an OCI card include visa-free travel to India, multiple entry, lifelong visa to India, etc. 

Job opportunities may shrink for OCI cardholders

While the recent Union Home Ministry’s recent notification on the Overseas Citizens of India provides a work permit and lifelong visa facilities, the new rules could create some administrative problems vis-a-vis employment for cardholders seeking jobs as well as their employers.

The cardholders will need to get special permission or a special permit from the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) or a competent authority if they wish to undertake:

• Internship in any foreign government organizations or foreign diplomatic mission in India
• Employment in any foreign diplomatic mission in India 
• Journalistic activities

It is believed that the new rule will place the OCI cardholders in the same category as foreign nationals concerning economic, educational and financial fields and is seen as a setback for cardholders when it comes to employment opportunities. 

The new rules have a mix of pros and cons for OCI cardholders. While they give cardholders parity with Indian nationals in domestic airfare tariffs or entry fees for national parks, museums and monuments in India, overseas Indians will have to take permission to take up employment and visit the prohibited areas in India.  

With the implementation of new rules, Overseas Citizens of India and Non-Residents Indians may require financial and legal advice. In such circumstances, they need the assistance of an expert. At SBNRI , we understand this struggle. You can connect with our financial experts directly on WhatsApp using the button below for end-to-end assistance. Also visit our blog and YouTube Channel for more details. 

Ask SBNRI Expert Now

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• Home > Consular Services > OCI Card Reissue Guidelines

OCI CARD RE-ISSUE GUIDELINES

(1) WHEN TO APPLY FOR RE-ISSUE OF OCI CARD:

If the OCI cardholder acquired OCI card before attaining the age of 20 years and has obtained new passport after attaining the age of 20 years.

If the OCI card is lost or damaged.

If there is change in name for whatever reasons, including change in name after marriage.

If there is change in nationality, provided the new nationality is not that of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

If there are any errors in the existing OCI card. The OCI cardholder needs to provide suitable proof for carrying out necessary correction.

Note : The OCI miscellaneous application may be sent to VFS Global. Applicants may refer to https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services for the process. The fee for this service is as under:

US$25.00 for re-issue of OCI card in lieu of existing OCI card / US$100.00 for re-issue of OCI card in lieu of lost or damaged OCI card.

US$3.00 towards Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF).

US$15.90 payable as service charge to the Outsourcing Agency, and

Fee for any optional services like shipping labels.

(2) WHEN RE-ISSUE OF OCI CARD IS NOT NEEDED / ONLINE UPDATION IS SUFFICIENT:

OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a recent photo each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of new passport.

Foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the new passport and a recent photo ONLINE each time a new passport is issued, along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse / passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

Similar exercise may be done in case of change in address or occupation. However, if an OCI cardholder joins foreign Military/Police service, he/she must renounce the OCI card to the nearest Indian Embassy/Consulate or to the jurisdictional FRRO, if the OCI cardholder is in India.

Note: Please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘OCI Miscellaneous Services (Passport Particulars Updation)’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider or the Embassy. The service will be gratis.

1OCI Card Reissue Guidelines

According to the recent relaxation in requirements for OCI Card Reissue:

(i) Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age, is dispensed with;

(ii) OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age. (Applicants may refer to https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services for the process). The fees for this is US$ 25 and US$ 3 for Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). You also need to pay US$ 15.90 to the Outsourcing Agency as service charge, and a fee for any Optional Services used like Shipping Labels;

(iii) OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a recent photo each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport;

(iv) Foreign spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the new passport and a recent photo ONLINE each time a new passport is issued, along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

[In case of (iii) and (iv), please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘OCI Miscellaneous Services’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider or the Embassy and will be Gratis].

2. Further, on account of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in order to avoid inconvenience to OCI cardholders who are required to get their OCI cards reissued, it has been decided by Government of India to extend the timeline for re-issuance of OCI card from December 31, 2021 till December 31, 2022 .

3. The requirement of carrying old and new passports, along with the OCI card, has been done away with. Henceforth, an OCI cardholder traveling 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.

(i)     Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card  each time  a new passport is issued to a foreigner up to 20 years of age and  once  after completing 50 years of age,  is dispensed with; 

(ii)     OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card  re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age. (Applicants may refer to https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services for the process). The fees for this is US$ 25 and US$ 3 for Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). You also need to pay US$ 15.90 to the Outsourcing Agency as service charge, and a fee for any Optional Services opted for like Shipping Labels;  

(iii) OCI cardholder is required to upload   ONLINE a copy of the  new passport and a recent photo   each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.  The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport; 

(iv)    Foreign spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the  new passport and a recent photo ONLINE  each time a new passport is issued, along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse. 

(In case of (iii) and (iv), please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘ OCI Miscellaneous Services’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider or the Embassy and will be Gratis ).

2. Further, timeline for re-issuance of OCI card in r/o OCI cardholders who may be required to get their OCI card re-issued, has been extended till December 31, 2021.

According to the recent relaxation in OCI Card Reissue Requirements:

(i)     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; 

(ii)     OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card  re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age;  

(iii)    OCI cardholder is required to upload   ONLINE a copy of the  new passport and a latest photo   each time a new passport is issued upto 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.  The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport.  The service will be provided on  Gratis  basis; 

(iv)    Foreign Spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder are required to upload a copy of the  new passport and a latest photo ONLINE  each time a new passport is issued along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport & OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse. 

4. Appropriate modifications are being made in the OCI Miscellaneous Services portal to implement the above decisions. This is expected to be launched soon. OCI cardholders are therefore requested to wait for the updating of the portal before submitting any application for re-issue of OCI card.

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Extension for re-issuance of OCI Cards till December 31, 2022

  Consulate General of India

Press Release  

Extension for re-issuance of OCI Cards till December 31, 2022

          On account of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in order to avoid inconvenience to OCI cardholders who are required to get their OCI cards reissued, it has been decided by Government of India to extend the timeline for re-issuance of OCI card from December 31, 2021 till December 31, 2022.

• The requirement of carrying old and new passports, along with the OCI card, has been done away with. Henceforth, an OCI cardholder traveling 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.

Chicago, 31 December 2021

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Modi Government Simplifies process for re-issue of OCI Cards Decision Expected to Facilitate OCI Card Holders

In a decision which is expected to significantly ease the process for re-issue of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, the Modi Government has decided to simplify the process. This decision has been taken on the directions of the Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah.

The OCI Card has proved to be very popular amongst foreigners of Indian Origin and spouses of foreign origin of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, as it helps them in hassle free entry and unlimited stay in India. So far about 37.72 lakh OCI Cards have been issued by the Government of India.

As per the extant law, a foreigner of Indian origin or a foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or foreign spouse of an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, can be registered as an OCI cardholder.  OCI card is a life-long visa for entry into and stay in India with a number of other major benefits attached to it which are not available to other foreigners. 

Presently, the OCI card is required to be re-issued each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age, in view of biological changes in the face of the applicant.   With a view to facilitate the OCI cardholders, it has now been decided by the Government of India to dispense with this requirement.   A person who has got registration as OCI cardholder prior to attaining the age of 20 years will have to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after his/her completing 20 years of age, so as to capture his/ her facial features on attaining adulthood.  If a person has obtained registration as OCI cardholder after attaining the age of 20 years, there will be no requirement of re-issue of OCI card.

With a view to update the data regarding new passports obtained by the OCI cardholder, it has been decided that he/she shall upload a copy of the new passport containing his/her photo and also a latest photo on the online OCI portal, each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.  These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder within 3 months of receipt of the new passport. 

However, in the case of those who have been registered as OCI cardholder as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or an OCI cardholder, the person concerned will be required to upload on the system, a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo along with a declaration that their marriage is still subsisting each time a new passport is issued.   These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder spouse within three months of receipt of his/ her new passport. 

The details will be updated on the system and an auto acknowledgement through e-mail will be sent to the OCI cardholder informing that the updated details have been taken on record.   There will be no restriction on the OCI cardholder to travel to/ from India during the period from the date of issue of new passport till the date of final acknowledgement of his/ her documents in the web-based system. 

All the above services of uploading documents will be provided on gratis basis to the OCI cardholders.

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India relaxes visa restrictions; PIO and OCI card holders can now travel to India

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , INDIA / Created : Oct 22, 2020, 13:56 IST

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All OCI and PIO card-holders as well as all foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose, except on a Tourist Visa, are permitted to enter by air or water routes through authorized airports and seaport immigration ch … Read more

All OCI and PIO card-holders as well as all foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose, except on a Tourist Visa, are permitted to enter by air or water routes through authorized airports and seaport immigration check posts. This has been announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs today. Read less

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All OCI and PIO card-holders and all other foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose, except on a… https://t.co/9AmnsltXSe — ANI (@ANI) 1603352217000

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All OCI and PIO card-holders as well as all foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose, except on a Tourist Visa, are permitted to enter by air or water routes through authorized airpo...

India extends OCI card reissue timeline through 2022

Amid a surge in Covid-19 cases in the US, India has extended the timeline for re-issuance of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card by one year till Dec 31, 2022.

The mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age has also been dispensed with.

Read: Covid-19: India allows OCI cardholders to travel back (May 22, 2020)

The Indian government has taken this decision “in order to avoid inconvenience to OCI cardholders who are required to get their OCI cards reissued,” according to a press release issued Friday by the Indian consulate in New York.

OCI is a form of permanent residency available to people of Indian origin and their spouses which allows them to live and work in India indefinitely.

In further relaxation of OCI rules, an OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age, the release said.

The fees for this is $25 plus $3 for Indian Community Welfare Fund. Applicants also need to pay $15.90 to the outsourcing an agency, VFS Global, as service charge, and a fee for any optional services used like shipping labels.

An OCI cardholder is required to upload online a copy of the new passport and a recent photo each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.

The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport, the release said.

Foreign spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the new passport and a recent photo online each time a new passport is issued.

This has to be done along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

Read: India allows more foreigners, OCI cardholders to enter (June 15, 2020)

Uploading of copies of new passports, photos and other documents of an OCI card holder or their foreign origin spouse can be done through ‘OCI Miscellaneous Services’ section at: https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome .

This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider/Consulate and is free of charge, the release said.

The requirement of carrying old and new passports, along with the OCI card, has also been done away with.

An OCI cardholder traveling with an OCI card bearing old passport number is not required to carry the old passport.

However, carrying the new (current) passport is mandatory, the release said.

For OCI card reissue process, applicants may visit:  https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services .

Arun Kumar joined The American Bazaar after reporting on world affairs from four vantage points — New Delhi, Islamabad, Beijing and Washington — for Indian national media. Previously as North America Bureau Chief of the IANS news agency based in Washington DC, he told the American story for its subscribers spread around the world for 11 years. Before that Arun worked as a foreign correspondent for PTI in Islamabad and Beijing for over eight years. On return to India, he worked as Chief News Editor, Editor of Special Services, and Assistant General Manager at PTI. Arun has penned five books for PTI providing an in-depth analysis of Indian elections from Nehru to Vajpayee besides compiling and editing PTI Offbeat, a coffee table book of offbeat pictures taken by PTI photographers.

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I received my OCI card at the age of 53 and I am 67 now also my spouse got his OCI at the age of 58 and he is 72 now. Do we need to update our passport and OCI.? My passport expires only in 2026 and my husband’s passport expires only by end of 2023.

I got my ICI card at the age of 53 and I am 67 now. Do I need to update my OCI for traveling to India? Also same with my spouse. He got his OCI when he was 58 and he is 72 now. Does he need to update his OCI for travelling to India? Thank you so much.

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Indian-origin Foreign Citizens Must Ensure New Criteria of OCI Card Validity before They Visit India

Recently, the Consulate General of India worldwide released a press release circulating a new update for the Overseas Citizen of India card . The OCI card holders – foreign citizens of Indian origin – are required to comply with the new criteria regarding validity of their OCI cards before they book their travel to India. The new criteria of the OCI card validity came into effect this November 1.

The OCI card holders within the age bracket of 20 years are required to get their OCI cards reissued each time when their passport is reissued , according to the Consulate General of India. Those above 20 years of age are exempted from ensuring this criterion of validity.

Reissue of the OCI card is not compulsory along with reissue of the passport for those within the age bracket of 21 to 50 years . But they have to carry their old passport which their OCI card was issued on, in order to prove the card validity. They do also have to carry the current passport.

Those above 50 years of age are required to get their OCI cards reissued only once when their passport is renewed after they turn 50. It is also recommended in the Consulate General of India’s press release that the Overseas Citizen of India card holders must always carry the expired passport along with the current/new passport and the OCI card while traveling to India.

Also Check: Revised Rules for Gaining New OCI Cards

The government of India has also decided to allow the OCI card holders’ investment in the tax-saving national pension scheme (NPS), adding value to the OCI card beyond its primary use as a lifelong visa to India for multiple entries.

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73 thoughts on “ indian-origin foreign citizens must ensure new criteria of oci card validity before they visit india ”.

Most people then prefer using visa for India visit

Not that easy! 1 year Visa will cost you $69 (Service fee) + US$ 130 (Government & admin fee for UK / USA) – are you ready my friend?

https://www.indianimmigration.org.in/visa-fees

This is crazy…

This is insane. We were sold a fake bill of goods for the $250+ we spent on the OCI when we first applied. It was supposed to replace the need for a visa. Now we have to go back thru the daunting process of uploading docs and paying even more money to the government and CKGS for something that was to be a one time process when first introduced.

Yeah it’s literally daunting. They don’t make this process easy and of course even the most techie person can’t figure out their stupid website.

This is not a good move. I applied for the OCI card in New York. We have to wait out on the pavement of the outsourced office and the entire process is so difficult. It’s another way of getting money out of us.

you are right, It is like changing rules in the middle of game as it fit to their goal . That may be helping to fill the gap in inefficiency in running government business.

I agree the demonization was the biggest eye opener. The oci card claims parity with nri but they simply wrote off all the money and most nri did not complain. Granted it is a few hundred dollars but that is not the point here you have to abide by rules and not change goal post to suit your needs

Friends, this is our Proud Indian Policies. When they brought OCI as you also said in your posts, this supposed to be lifelong. And process of getting any thing done in CGI, New York is horrible. So much paper work, copies etc. and moreover processing fees etc and dealing with 3rd party for the processing. Can’t these people work more as compare to celebrate events in the office, taking all Indian and American holidays off. Just compare the process of getting a passport in USA, what a difference. Looks like it will take ages for them to make things simpler for Indians whether it is in India, USA or anywhere else. Just my comments.

I totally agree. Not sure when Indian Government and Consulate will learn to make things simple. Dealing with any Consulate/Agency is horrible. When we spent lot of Money and time for OCI, it was supposed to be only one time process. Even OCI card itself states lifelong. This is totally cheating and way to continuously get our money and unnecessarily harass people. And then they make propaganda that “Come visit India !!!”

Bunch of Idiots. whats the point of getting it then for children below 20. its much easier getting the e-visa

Update the Picture on New OCI cards, You don’t have to update any documents. Just old OCI card and New US passport and FEES is only $25,

Hi Manisha, is there a link for this? when we check misc. service.. it’s almost a new OCI process.

I believe the Indian consulate offices are managed by IFS (Indian Foreign Service) graduates who are supposed to be highly intelligent. Well, this is what we get for their intelligence! A community college graduate in USA can do a better and more efficient job than these crooked bureaucrats.

This is crazy. They are singling out people over 50. Why discrimination with people above 50? Do they know the meaning of ‘lifelong’

I just got stopped at Delta Counter from RDU, and they would not let me on-board the flight. I have an OCI card with an old passport number. I had checked in online before boarding the flight and there was no warning.

I did not see or noticed the press release. Not sure how you are supposed to find out. Can you imagine the panic & the stress? The counter agent did not care or gave a sh.. She was f….following the rules. She was rude and no concern whatsoever that I have meetings scheduled on Monday in Bangalore.

Fortunately, I live close to the Airport and was able to ask my wife to bring the old passport. Fortunately, I kept the old passport and did not shred it. I was able to board the flight without any issues after showing my old passport.

I went through immigration in Bangalore and not a word about showing the old passport. I guess they have not seen the fu…. Press release either.

Thanks for sharing this information. They in fact asked us to shred / surrender Indian passport when I got US passport after which I got my OCI. This whole thing is BS and rip-off. They forget the fact that lot of people have life emergencies and not everyone goes to India for a vacation every time!

This is documented clearly. You need to keep the original passport with OCI VISA if it’s not transferred to new passport.

VERY VERY FRUSTRATING!! Where can we collectively complain about this?

Yes India should make it simple! Even country like USA do not bother about what passport you are holding. Their Green Card is valid for 10 years and it is not required to reissue if passport is renewed ! Actually they do not stamp any visa on the passport. Indian Government should understand the facial features may change over years but not the FINGER PRINTS! Why not use fingerprint to verify the true identity of the OCI card holder? India has still long way to go……..!

For OCI, they have started collecting the finger print now

I agree with you, once OCI is issued, it should be valid lifelong. They say if OCI is issued after the age of 50, it is not renewed but at the same time they ask to upload a recent picture and passport copy. The frustrating part is the Indian Embassy people in Chicago as well as Washington cannot clarify if people who got OCI after age of 50 need to load passport copy and recent photo. Hypothetically if a person got OCI at 55, and renewed passport at 60, why should that person be asked to upload picture?

The Indian Government can do away with the renewal of OCI card after age 50 and endorse a new photograph on the OCI card by charging a one time fee of $50 or so for the administration fee. That would eliminate all the duplication of paperwork needed. The same can be adopted for all minors too . That way you just hold on to one OCI card for life

Having attended the camp for OCI I was told that I am over 70 and do not require to renue my OCI and I have to carry my old passport plus the new passport. Is it ok?

Hi , If we have the old Indian passports which match the passport number on the OCI card ,

Is it good enough to travel to India ?

Appreciate any guidance

Any one traveled recently on OCI and not carrying old passport?

Yes I only had my new passport and no where did it say to carry the old passport. The emirates counter in Orlando did not let me board the flight and were extremely rude and my old passport was in New York and no way of getting it before the flight left. They did not offer any help watched me cry, offloaded my luggage and never warned me that my return ticket will not be valid for me to come back to the states. If you do not travel your first leg your return gets automatically canceled. Basically spent 6000 dollars in tickets and emirates did not give a F..K. I Had not seen my family in a year and this was so stressful as I only got 2 weeks off work to visit them. Spent a ton of money and time all because emirates staff were assholes. When I finally landed in India no one asked me about my old passport Immigration was a breeze. My advise please do carry your old passport with the new passport and do not fly Emirates!!

Very good. It is really informative blog. Thank you for sharing this..

Great Post! This is an amazing article. Thanks for Sharing such a great post. Keep Posting!!

No need to renew OCI (as it says, VISA for Life) just carry all the (OLD and New) US Passports.

Not sure I understand. OCI must be carried while travelling in and out of India. Carry the current passport always.

– If OCI references the OLD Passport, Carry OLD passport and New Passport+OCI

– If OCI references only the new Passport, then OCI + New Passport is good enough.

Follow the rules of OCI renewal and get your OCI renewed soon(before June 2021).

I have OCI card (lifelong visa on old PP) and just turned 51 with renewed US passport. I have an emergency to go to India and not sure if I need visa since I do not have a renewed OCI (above age 50 rule)? I have tried to reach consulate general for the past three days and unsuccessful. Flight is in a week and not sure if I am able to travel. Any suggestions?

Hello Sir! You are able to able because the deadline for reissuance of OCI cards based on renewed US passports is June 30, 2021. Wish you safe and hassle-free travel!

Hi, you should have written to External affairs ministry, Passport department, New Delhi, India. They are taking immediate action regarding renewal of OCI card. It is my experience.

I have a OCI (lifelong visa on a old passport). Iam 55. I had renewed my passport when I was 49. I am travelling to India end of March. I do not have the renewed OCI stamp on my new passport. Will I be able to travel to India without the renewed OCI on my new passport?I will be taking both my old and new passport and the OCI card with me.

Hello Sir! Since June 30, 2021 is the deadline for reissuance of OCI cards, you can travel. Please be advised to check with the consulate/embassy for a more definite answer to your satisfaction.

regarding the new OCI rules, I understand that if I am over 50 I need to renew my OCI but Is it only when I renew my passport? for example: my passport doesn’t expire until next year but I am planning on going to india end of this year. Would I still need to renew my OCI even if my passport doesn’t expire until next year?

Hi Dixita! You can travel to India with your existing OCI card and passport. You will be required to get your OCI card reissued only when you renew your passport.

I got my OCI when i was already 54 years old. I renewed my US passport in 2019. do I need to get my OCI renewed? My understanding of rules is that if one got OCI before the age of 50 and then when their US passport is renewed after the age of 50 years, OCI card needs to be renewed once. However, I was already 54 years when I got OCI.

Hi Kamalesh! Probably not. Besides, OCI cardholders with the old passport number on the OCI card can travel to India till December 31, 2021. Please be advised to check with the consulate or embassy for a more definite answer.

What happens after December 31, 2021?

my wife is pregnant due on Jun end and she haven’t got her h4 approved yet. Can we apply OCI for baby with my approved H1 and her H4 receipt notice?

Hi Johny! You can to the best of our knowledge. Please be advised to check with a visa and immigration expert.

some one please help me. I have oci on my British passport, but now I just became us citizen,i know i have to transfer oci to my new passport but I do not have time to,because iam flying out in a week. so can I travel on with British passport and on my return to US Present my US passport.

Hi Dineshchandra! As far as we know, you can most probably travel to India irrespective of any foreign passport you hold. However, please be advised to check with the consulate as well.

Hello, I’ve got a question. I am required to renew my OCI but I need to travel to India urgently and won’t be able to renew my OCI that soon. Would I still be able to travel with my old OCI that was issued to me in 2007 and yes along with the old password the OCI was issued with? Thanks!

Hi Behlah! The rules are relaxed until December 31, 2021 for the entry of OCI cardholders into India with the old passport with the OCI number and the new passport. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/relief-for-oci-card-holders/

Hi, I have one question I will turn 50 year on May 16. My US passport will expire in 2030. If I am applying for New OCI card now then when I have to renew my OCI card. I am little confuse should I get OCI card or Entry visa since fees are almost same and don’t want to spend more money in a year because I will turn 50 in 5-6 months.

Hello Mam! As per the regulations, you must get your OCI card reissued once you turn 50.

Agree it took me almost 3 days with daily 4 hours and also online help from collogue daily of an hour and half and finally able to submit my new US passport information as well as my passport picture & my signature sign on OCI miscellaneous service cause i already have OCI card issued me in 2011 when I was 53-year-old so I just need to upload my new USA Passport, i believe that’s all.

It is frustrating and least to say also disappointing as well.

I am Physician practicing here in USA for 30 years, and never saw this non sense on any USA Federal Government site for any documents to submit including recently issuance of new USA Passport to me for which I did online application with vey ease.

I thought our beloved PM has vision of everything to be DIGITAL, but this OCI site is full of CRAP.

Plus, after when I have done with the last part of uploading the new USA passport details on this OCI miscellaneous site & after hit the upload button, I expected it will say completed thanks, but nothing happens!

So, you really still don’t know it has accepted & now completed?

I haven’t yet received any email regarding it either. What a waste of time, energy and headache! I am sure it has raised my BP tremendously.

Is this what we expect from PM Modi ji Government Service??

I am an avid fan of PM Modi ji, but surely lost confidence of his government services especially for NRI, who have always welcome him in USA with Love, Vigor, Enthusiasm & respect.

I hope and wish I can write him directly to make him acknowledge that how difficult it has been for NRIs like me to visit family & friends!

We need to abolish the “BABU” controlling the government services & be friendly and helpful attitude to his NRI clients.

Hi Folks I have a burning question regarding the new rules of OCI card holder as well as Visa policy to visit India ok. I have OCI card issued in 8/2011 when I was 53-year-old then. My OCI card at that time linked with my USA passport. It says I have lifelong and multiple Visa for India. Now My old USA passport expired in 3/2021 and I received the new USA Passport in 8/2021. I just realize, while was booking the air tickets to visit India in late 1/22. My Agent says I need to upload my new USA Passport online to OCI miscellaneous services. Now here the confusion, frustration, pain, agony starts! It is such an unfriendly, ridiculous, time consuming, slow, an unresponsive service, that anyone with the Coolest mind would lose patience, & gets angry, furious. Firstly, after all painstaking task you do that took me almost 3 days, & when I reached the final step of uploading the new passport, and hit upload then submit nothing happens like one can expect that it would say completed thanks right? Nope but it didn’t happen! Only email I have received says “Thank you for completing Part-B of OCI- Application on 18/Nov/2021 01:48 IST”. Your File-number is “such & such ” for all future reference. Please upload relevant documents as it is mandatory for complete OCI-registration. Please ignore if already uploaded. Now this email doesn’t say or mention that yea thanks we have received all necessary information & your application now completed. So, with such an ambiguity, you don’t know that you’re ok to buy air fare tickets before the prices goes up? I know it is very long post, but I hope someone here can comment on it, help me and likewise others who may be having same issue. Thanks to all who bother to read review and reply to it.

Hi, I got my OCI at the age of 60. My new Canadian pp expires in 2027. My wife got her OCI at the age of 57. Her pp also expires in 2027. We are travelling to Mumbai first and then to Dubai returning to Mumbai. So we enter Mumbai twice. We always travelled with the old and new passports to avoid any issues. Under the new rules can we continue travel with both old and new passports? Both are Canadian seniors. Is it required to have our OCI reissued as our passports only expire in 2027? Please advise Thanks

Hi Richard! If your passport was renewed after you became 50 years old, you should get the OCI card reissued. We think both of you got the OCI card issued (the first time) on the current passports which will expire in 2027. If yes, then no worries. Both of you can travel to India. You can also carry your old passports.

How much does it cost to get it re-issued?

Sharma, 12/15/2021 at 5:45 p.m. Hello, I received my OCI card when I became 60 years old. I have an OCI card issued on luly12, 2012. My OCI card at that time was linked with my USA passport ( it says: U Life Long Visa Multiple Entries) that expired on June 2021 and I received my new passport in Sept 2021. I need guidance on what exactly I need to do with my OCI card. What’s the process. I’ve read so many times the OCI Misc. Services section. I understand I have to renew or update my new passport information before Dec.31, 2021. Please guide me step by step. I want to travel in March 2022. Thank you so much in advance.

Hi Madhu Sir! You need to get your OCI card reissued with the new passport information.

I applied for my OCI in 2010 while I was 4 months short of 50 years of age and got it. I have been travelling to India several times since then. Now I hear stories about renewing my OCI card as I have not completed 50 years when I applied for my OCI. My current passport is due for renewal in 2026. Can anyone advise me whether I can travel to India using my current OCI card?

Hi Mercy! As per the rules, you are required to get your OCI renewed after 50 years of age.

My daughter’s OCI issued in 2016 and she is turn 19 and she have new passport, does she require to have reissue new OCI Thanks, Janak

Hi Janak! She needs to get the OCI card reissued only once after she turns 20. All she needs to do now is to upload a copy of the passport and a recent photograph on the OCI card service website.

I am 54 years age. I have a need to travel to India in 15 days. I have not applied for new OCI and new passport number is not same as in OCI. If I apply for new OCI now, I don’t think I will receive it in time. What are my options? Anyone’s help will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Uday! You can travel with the existing OCI card, the new passport and old passport. This relaxation is extended through December 31, 2022. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/relief-for-oci-card-holders/

My 2 daughters ( 9 yrs and 4yrs ) have OCI cards, their US passports will expire this year. We have plans to visit India later this year, so we are going to renew their US passports.

Do we need to renew their OCI card as well?

Hi Pinki! No need to renew the OCI card up to 20 years of age. All they need to do is upload a copy of the new passport and a copy of the latest photograph to the OCI website.

Sorry if I’m asking the same question. My daughter is 12 yrs and we are planning to go to India in first week of June. She has OCI card, but her Passport is new. Do we need to post Physical copies as well? Usually how long the process takes for approvals?

Hi Sree Devi! No need to post physical copies. Everything is done online.

Hi all – i am 79/80 years old born Indian (Mysore 1943) without any OCI or Indian passport – i am a US citizen now – if i want to go back to India do i have to get the OCI or can i just go to India – does anyone really know who can advise me – i just want to go back home – that’s all – please advise anyone – i am tired of living in the US – no family – no friends – nobody – i want to go back home (but even there i have no one living anymore all passed away) what can i do anyone please

Hi Fazel! The OCI card is good for you. If you have an OCI card, you can stay in India for any duration.

Fazel, if you don’t have OCI card, you can go to India on a tourist visa and stay there upto 6 months on that visa. Please apply for a visa before you leave on this site: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

If you want to live in India for a longer time, you will need to apply for OCI. Good luck.

If you want to go to India and spend the rest of your life there then you’ll have to get OCI. You will have to prove that you’re of Indian origin. Previous Indian passport Birth certificate. Parents documents etc.

Hope you have all the documents. After applying it will take 3 months or so.

With OCI you can go to India and stay there once and for all.

Hopefully you will have had your OCI by now.

Hi! If I got my OCI 10 14 years ago (when I was 22 years old) do I need to apply for new OCI? I read that you need new OCI card every 10 years. I did get a new passport 3 years ago so I know I have to carry OCI card, Old passport and new passport when traveling to India. However, can someone tell me if I need to apply for new OCI card too?

Hi Rosh! Once you cross the threshold of 21 years, you are required to get your OCI card renewed. This requirement is relaxed only till December 31, 2022.

If you got your OCI for the first time after you have had a foreign passport after the age of 20, or after having a foreign passport renewed after your 20th birthday, that OCI is a permanent document as of current government of India rules. However when you have a foreign passport renewed after you turn 50, then you have to update your photos and nationality status on the OCI website. To the other comments from Overseas nationals who were once upon a time Indian citizens and no complain, they should stop moaning. People in India travel far more and are harassed by other high commission and embassies more often.

My daughter OCI was issued when she was 12 years old. She got her new passport when she was 17 years old in year 2016 and still valid until 2026. She was not 20 when the new passport was issued in 2016. Does she need to have OCI reissued or just update the passport details with photo- online?

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• Home ›   News

OCI Renewal Process Simplified

Modi Government Simplifies process for re-issue of OCI Cards Decision Expected to Facilitate OCI Card Holders

In a decision which is expected to significantly ease the process for re-issue of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, the Modi Government has decided to simplify the process. This decision has been taken on the directions of the Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah.

The OCI Card has proved to be very popular amongst foreigners of Indian Origin and spouses of foreign origin of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, as it helps them in hassle free entry and unlimited stay in India. So far about 37.72 lakh OCI Cards have been issued by the Government of India.

As per the extant law, a foreigner of Indian origin or a foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or foreign spouse of an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, can be registered as an OCI cardholder.  OCI card is a life-long visa for entry into and stay in India with a number of other major benefits attached to it which are not available to other foreigners. 

Presently, the OCI card is required to be re-issued each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age, in view of biological changes in the face of the applicant.   With a view to facilitate the OCI cardholders, it has now been decided by the Government of India to dispense with this requirement.   A person who has got registration as OCI cardholder prior to attaining the age of 20 years will have to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after his/her completing 20 years of age, so as to capture his/ her facial features on attaining adulthood.  If a person has obtained registration as OCI cardholder after attaining the age of 20 years, there will be no requirement of re-issue of OCI card.

With a view to update the data regarding new passports obtained by the OCI cardholder, it has been decided that he/she shall upload a copy of the new passport containing his/her photo and also a latest photo on the online OCI portal, each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.  These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder within 3 months of receipt of the new passport. 

However, in the case of those who have been registered as OCI cardholder as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or an OCI cardholder, the person concerned will be required to upload on the system, a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo along with a declaration that their marriage is still subsisting each time a new passport is issued.   These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder spouse within three months of receipt of his/ her new passport. 

The details will be updated on the system and an auto acknowledgement through e-mail will be sent to the OCI cardholder informing that the updated details have been taken on record.   There will be no restriction on the OCI cardholder to travel to/ from India during the period from the date of issue of new passport till the date of final acknowledgement of his/ her documents in the web-based system. 

All the above services of uploading documents will be provided on gratis basis to the OCI cardholders.

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Consulate General of India Toronto, Canada

• Home ›   Consular ›   OCI ›   OCI renewal and updation

Application for Reissue of OCI

Reissuance of OCI cards will be done only in following cases:

• In case of issuance of new Passport (once a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age).
• Upon reaching the age of 50 years, one need to update the photo and other personal particulars in the OCI portal after obtaining a new passport. No new booklet will be printed. After that only passport number and photograph is to be updated whenever you get a new one. Please visit  https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome  .However, one can travel after updating the particulars and acknowledged.
• In case of change of following personal particulars: Name, Father's name, Nationality, Date of Birth
• In case of loss/damage of OCI card

In all other cases like:

• Further issuance of a new passport,
• Change of any personal particulars : photo, address, contact details, occupation, spouse name;

-you now no longer need to apply for a renewed OCI card. You can now simply update your details on the OCI portal as follows and continue using the existing OCI card:

*visit  https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome

*go to OCI Miscellaneous Services

*Read the disclaimer and proceed to update your details.

* The procedure to update details online in OCI can be seen  here..

(b) Online Application Form:  

• The online application for OCI must be completed and submitted online. The form can be filled up and submitting online at the below link:  https://ociservices.gov.in/
• For filling up the online application you are required to register first and create a login and password.
• A step wise process for filling up online OCI can be seen at the below link:

https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/docs/1617812881Step-wise-process-for-OCI-application-new.pdf

• Must select the correct  Indian High Commission / Consulate,  based on the place where you reside in Canada and the Consular jurisdiction of  Indian High Commission / Consulate.  The consular jurisdiction can be viewed at:  https://www.blsindia-canada.com/usefphp
• All the personal particulars / data entries of the OCI application should match with the current Passport. The name of parents & spouse should match as mentioned in their Indian Passport.

After online submission of application form, no changes can be made manually / hand writing. In case of any error / changes, please fill a fresh new online application form and use that for further submission to BLS.

Please note:

• BLS International Employees cannot edit or make any changes to your online application form.
• Consulate General of India  reserves the Right to Call for Additional Documents, as considered necessary.

(c) Surrender / Renunciation Certificate (copy )

Please enclose the copy of your Surrender / Renunciation Certificate of old Indian passport.

In case applicant has lost the passport and as a result does not have a surrender certificate, please follow the guidelines as given below:

  (d) Indian Passport (Original and copy)

  Please enclose the photo page (first page) of your Indian Passport having photographs and details. Also, enclose the last page of showing the details of parents name and address. If there are any endorsements on the page, kindly enclose copy of those pages as well.

In case Indian passport is not available, please provide copy of Nativity Certificate / Domicile certificate issued by competent authority in India as your proof of Indian Origin.

(e) Citizenship certificate (Original and copy)

  Please enclose Original and a copy of your Canadian / Foreign Citizenship Certificate. If Citizenship certificate is not available you can enclose copy of your Citizenship card.

(f) Canadian passport / Foreign Passport (Original and copy) (duly signed)

  Please enclose photo page of your Canadian Passport having photographs and details of your passport. Original Passport is required to be shown at the counter for verification, it will be returned back at the counter after verification. A minimum six months or more validity on your passport is required for applying for OCI.

# In case of foreign passport i.e., other than Canadian please provide the following two additional documents:

(i) Status in Canada (PR / Work Permit / Study Permit / Visa)

(ii) Additional form as per link below

https://blsindia-canada.com/forms/non-canadian-form.pdf

  (g) Professional Details of the applicant:

  Please enclose a letter mentioning your profession / occupation details in Canada.

  (h) Proof of address in Canada

  Please enclose  any one of the following document as proof of present address:

• Driving License
• Photo ID issued by the Ontario Government
• Utility Bills(Electricity/water/Gas/Phone/Internet etc)-must be recent

# For OCI application of Minor children - Proof of address of both of the parent to be submitted.

Note:  Address proof must match with the address provided in the application form.

(i)   Note:

• The fees to be paid in the form of Money order or Demand draft in favor of  “Consulate General of India, Toronto”.  For fee please refer to https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/consular-fees/  
• The above fees is excluding service fee, courier charges and other value added services provided by BLS. The additional service fee, courier charges, etc., to be paid separately to BLS.
• Fee once paid will not be returned in any case.

  (j) Photograph

  One color photo as per below specification is required to be uploaded online with the OCI application. Photograph uploaded online must be the same as the physical photograph pasted on your OCI application form:

• Size – 2 inch x 2 inch(51 mm x 51 mm)
• Background –Background should be plain white colored without borders
• Clothes – Dark colour
• Eyes – Open

(k) Existing OCI card (original and copy)

  Kindly submit the existing OCI card along with a copy of the first and last page of OCI showing photograph and details of the OCI card.

(l) Cancelled Canadian passport on which OCI was issued (copy)

  Please enclose a copy of the Cancelled Canadian passport on which the existing OCI was issued.

(m) Police Report for Lost OCI

In case OCI application is submitted for re-issue of OCI in lieu of lost OCI, please enclose Police Report (long) for the Lost OCI.

Type C: Application for OCI to Minor Children

Type C (i): Application for OCI to Minor Children - Born in Canada  / Foreign country

  # Documents  at (a), (b), (f), (h), (i) and (j) above and remaining documents as below

(n) Birth Certificate (Original and copy)

Please enclose the Birth Certificate issued by the Government authority having name of both the parent of the child.

If birth certificate is issued by Canadian government, it is required to be attested by Ministry of Consumer Affairs/government services (222 Jarvis Street, Toronto) and thereafter from the Consulate of India, Toronto.

In case the Birth Certificate is issued by any other foreign Country than Canada, then the Birth Certificate is required to be attested by the  High Commission / Embassy / Consulate  of that Country in Canada.

(o) Consent of both parents

Both the parents are required to sign the OCI application at the designated place in the end of the application. The parent’s signature should be similar to their signature in the other documents viz., Indian passports, OCI, Canadian passport.

(p) Passport of parents (copy)

  If parents are Canadian national – Passport copy of parents are required to be enclosed.

In case Parents are Indian or other than Canadian Passport holder  –

• Passport copy of parents and
• Status in Canada (PR / Work Permit / Student Permit / Visa) required to be enclosed.

Please enclose copy of the first and last page showing photographs and details of the passports.

(q) Registered Marriage Certificate

The copy of Registered Marriage Certificate of the parents is required to be enclosed.

Type C (ii): Application for OCI to Minor Children - Born in India

  # Documents  at (a) to (j), (o), (p) & (q) above

Type D: Application for OCI on Indian origin Spouse basis

  Note:

• Foreign spouse can submit application for OCI on the basis of Indian origin spouse only after two years of valid marriage.
• There will be a mandatory personal interview of all OCI applicants who apply under Foreign spouse category.
• All such application is required to be first submitted at BLS for pre-approval.

# Documents  at (a), (b), (f), (g), (h), (i) and (j) above and remaining documents as below.

(r) Marriage certificate

Please enclose a copy of Registered Marriage Certificate which has been attested by  High Commission of India or any other Indian Embassy / Consulate .  The Marriage Certificate must indicate the date of marriage. There should be two years gap between the date of marriage and date of OCI application. 

(s) Indian passport of the Spouse (copy)

  Please enclose a copy of the Indian Passport of the spouse. If the spouse is an OCI cardholder can enclose a copy of OCI card

(t) Indian Spouse’s status in Canada / foreign country (copy)

If the spouse is Indian Passport holder copy of his/her status in Canada / foreign country to be enclosed.

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OCI card holders can travel to India now

India has signed so-called air bubble arrangements with the US, UK, Germany, and France for bilateral air travel amid international travel restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Union home ministry on Friday issued a notification allowing Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cardholders from the US, the UK, France, and Germany, with whom India has signed bilateral air travel arrangements, to enter the country. Other citizens of these countries can apply for Indian visas for business, medical and employment purposes while Indians can also travel there on any visa type.

A bilateral air bubble refers to a travel corridor between two countries that wish to reopen their borders and re-establish connections with each other.

International flights to and from India were suspended since March 23 as the Covid-19 pandemic spread across the world.

The notification said for Indians travelling to these four countries, it would be the responsibility of airlines concerned to ensure that there is no travel restriction on their travel with a particular visa category before the issue of tickets, and boarding passes. It added the existing restrictions on incoming passenger traffic into India through the immigration check posts will not apply to any movement of cargo or goods and supplies in any vehicle, aircraft, ship, train, etc along with their crew.

The government in June allowed certain categories of foreign nationals, including OCI cardholders to enter India. They included foreign nationals married to Indian citizens.

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Visa & Travel restrictions in response to COVID-19 - permitting certain categories of foreign nationals (including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) & PIO Cardholders) to enter India.

Categories of Foreign Nationals including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholders who are allowed to enter India during COVID pandemic Government of India has decided on 21.10.2020 to permit the following categories of foreign nationals including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) & PIO Cardholders to enter India: Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) & PIO Cardholders All OCI & PIO card holders (in any country) are allowed to travel to India.   Other Foreign nationals   All existing visas, except electronic visas (e-Visa), Tourist Visa and Medical Visa , which remained suspended shall stand restored w.e.f. 21 October 2020. In case of Medical Visa for emergency treatment (including visa for Medical Attendants) may contact Embassy. All foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on appropriate category of dependent visa)except those on Tourist Visa. Nationals of Nepal and Bhutan are permitted to come to India from any country (including any third country). Foreign nationals not covered in above categories May contact Embassy only in case of Family emergency in India. (Such visa would be considered on case to case basis). In respect of quarantine and all other health-COVID-19 related matters, guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare shall be strictly adhered to.

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OCI cardholders now required to get document re-issued only once at age of 20

Overseas citizen of india (oci) cardholders will now be required to get their document re-issued only once at the age of 20 instead of multiple times needed to be done currently..

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders will now be required to get their document re-issued only once at the age of 20 instead of multiple times needed to be done currently. (Representational image)

According to the Union home ministry, a person who has got registration as OCI cardholder prior to attaining the age of 20 years will have to get the card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after his or her completing 20 years of age, so as to capture his or her facial features on attaining adulthood.

If a person has obtained registration as OCI cardholder after attaining the age of 20 years, there will be no requirement of re-issue of OCI card, a home ministry statement said.

Currently, the OCI card is required to be re-issued each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age, in view of biological changes in the face of the applicant.

With a view to facilitate the OCI cardholders, the government has decided to dispense with this requirement.

The decision has been taken on the directions of Union Home Minister Amit Shah as part of the Modi government's desire to simplify the process and it is expected to significantly ease the process for re-issue of OCI cards, the statement said.

The OCI card has proved to be very popular amongst foreigners of Indian origin and spouses of foreign origin of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, as it helps them in hassle-free entry and unlimited stay in India.

So far about 37.72 lakh OCI cards have been issued by the government of India.

According to the extant law, a foreigner of Indian origin or a foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or foreign spouse of an OCI cardholder, can be registered as an OCI cardholder.

The OCI card is a life-long visa for entry into and stay in India with a number of other major benefits attached to it which are not available to other foreigners.

With a view to update the data regarding new passports obtained by the OCI cardholder, it has been decided that he or she shall upload a copy of the new passport containing his or her photo and also a latest photo on the online OCI portal, each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age.

These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder within three months of receipt of the new passport.

However, in the case of those who have been registered as OCI cardholder as spouse of foreign origin of a citizen of India or an OCI cardholder, the person concerned will be required to upload on the system, a copy of the new passport containing the photo of the passport holder and also a latest photo along with a declaration that their marriage is still subsisting each time a new passport is issued.

These documents may be uploaded by the OCI cardholder spouse within three months of receipt of his or her new passport.

The details will be updated on the system and an auto acknowledgement through e-mail will be sent to the OCI cardholder informing that the updated details have been taken on record.

There will be no restriction on the OCI cardholder to travel to or from India during the period from the date of issue of new passport till the date of final acknowledgement of his or her documents in the web-based system.

All the above services of uploading documents will be provided on gratis basis to the OCI cardholders, the statement said.

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Reporting by Aditi and Shah Aditya Kalra; Editing by William Mallard

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Aditya Kalra is the Company News Editor for Reuters in India, overseeing business coverage and reporting stories on some of the world's biggest companies. He joined Reuters in 2008 and has in recent years written stories on challenges and strategies of a wide array of companies -- from Amazon, Google and Walmart to Xiaomi, Starbucks and Reliance. He also extensively works on deeply-reported and investigative business stories.

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Reporting in India ‘too difficult’ under Modi, says departing Australian journalist

Despite eventual visa backflip by authorities, ABC’s south-Asia correspondent Avani Dias left after being made to ‘feel so uncomfortable’

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The south-Asia correspondent for Australia’s national broadcaster, Avani Dias, has been forced out of India after her reporting fell foul of the Indian government, in a sign of the increasing pressure on journalists in the country under Narendra Modi .

Dias, who has been based in Delhi for the ABC since January 2022, said she felt the government had made it “too difficult” for her to continue to do her job, claiming it blocked her from accessing events, issued takedown notices to YouTube for her news stories, and then refused her a standard visa renewal.

Dias was told by the Indian government that her visa, which was due for renewal, would be blocked, she says in the final episode of her podcast, Looking for Modi.

The decision came after the Indian government issued a takedown notice to YouTube for an episode of Foreign Correspondent, the ABC’s flagship international news program, that she reported.

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The episode covered the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar , a Sikh separatist, in Canada last year. Canada accused the Indian government of being involved in his murder, straining relations between the two nations .

Dias says a ministry official called to inform her of the decision regarding her visa.

“He specifically said it was because of my Sikh separatist story, saying it had gone too far,” she said.

Australia lobbied India on Dias’ behalf, and less than 24 hours before Dias and her partner were due to leave the country, the Indian government overturned its decision and renewed her visa for two months.

However, Dias said that by this point it was clear that it would be too difficult for her to stay and continue her work as an independent journalist. She returned to Australia on the weekend.

“It felt too difficult to do my job in India. I was struggling to get into public events run by Modi’s party, the government wouldn’t even give me the passes I need to cover the election and the ministry left it all so late, that we were already packed up and ready to go,” she said in her podcast.

“It’s all by design. The Narendra Modi government has made me feel so uncomfortable that we decided to leave. There’s always a feeling of unease that this sort of backlash could come your way as a journalist in India, I’ve felt it the whole time I’ve been here, so have my colleagues from other publications.”

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Since Modi came to power in 2014, foreign correspondents in India have faced increasing pressure from the government over their reporting. Foreign journalists have been given shorter visas after publishing stories critical of the Modi government and they have faced reprimands from government figures for coverage deemed negative. Those on foreign journalist visas also have restricted access to large swathes of the country, including the restive region of Kashmir.

Last year, the offices of the BBC were raided in Delhi and Mumbai by the Indian tax authorities after the broadcast of a documentary that examined Modi’s role in the 2001 Gujarat riots in which almost 800 Muslims were killed and took place when he was chief minister. The government also invoked emergency laws to ban the documentary being shared online.

Several foreign journalists who were working in India under OCI status, a special residency card given to those of Indian origin or who are married to Indians, have also had their permission to work as journalists revoked after they produced critical reports.

In January, Vanessa Dougnac, a French journalist who had lived in India for 22 years, said she left the country after the government denied her permission to work as a journalist and said they intended to cancel her OCI card, because her reports created a “biased negative perception of India”.

The managing director of the ABC, David Anderson, said: “The ABC fully backs and stands by the important and impactful reporting by Avani Dias during her time as ABC correspondent in India. Avani joins the Four Corners team as a reporter in coming weeks. The ABC believes strongly in the role of independent journalism across the globe, and freedom of the press outside Australia.”

Avani Dias and the Indian ministry of external affairs were contacted for comment.

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