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INDIA – Conversion of Person of Indian Origin (PIO) to Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) Extended Until 31 December 2016
, 08/07/2016
The Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj announced at a press conference on 19 June 2016 that the deadline for the conversion of PIO (Person of Indian Origin) cardholders to OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) status would be extended to December 2016.
Background
An ordinance of 6 January 2015, amending the Indian Citizenship Act, unified the two schemes and, on 9 January 2015, the immediate withdrawal of the PIO scheme was announced.- The OCI is valid for the holder’s lifetime and is accompanied by a lifelong multiple entry visa to India, with no requirement to report to the FRRO, regardless of length of stay.
- The deadline for the conversion of PIO to OCI has been extended several times since January 2015.
Action Items
- Applicants should submit their ‘PIO in lieu of OCI’ applications at their local FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Office) or the overseas mission or consulate of jurisdiction.
- PIO card holders can continue to use their valid PIO cards until converted.
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