For people of Indian origin living outside India, the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cards were once two distinct options for long-term residency and travel.
But as of September 30, 2019, the Government of India invalidated PIO cards and shifted all benefits to the OCI card.
So we decided to share a blog that provides a clear comparison of OCI and PIO to help understand their differences, benefits, and eligibility requirements.
What Is OCI?
The OCI card will offer foreign citizens long-term residency in India, who are persons of Indian origin. This status is endowed with the right to reside, work, or study in India without any visa worries. OCI cardholders may enter India at any time and stay indefinitely.
What Was PIO?
The PIO card was an identity document that allowed foreign nationals of Indian origin or with Indian ancestry to have entry and continuous residence in the country of India with much ease. Since the merger, however, the PIO card lost its validity, and it now falls under the OCI card.
Key Differences
To better understand the distinctions between OCI and PIO, let’s look at a comparison table:
| Parameter | OCI | PIO |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | Lifelong | 15 years from issuance |
| Entry to India | Unlimited entries and stays | Unlimited entries, but registration required for stays over 180 days |
| Registration | Not required | Required after 180 days of stay |
| Eligibility | Indian citizens on or after Jan 26, 1950; or from territories that became part of India after Aug 15, 1947; and their children/grandchildren | Former Indian passport holders; or those with Indian parents/grandparents/great-grandparents |
| Spouse Eligibility | Not eligible if no Indian origin | Eligible even without Indian origin |
| Processing Time | 8-10 weeks | 4-6 weeks (when it was available) |
Eligibility Requirements
OCI Eligibility:
- Individuals eligible for Indian citizenship on or after January 26, 1950.
- Individuals from regions that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
- Children and grandchildren of these individuals.
PIO Eligibility:
- Foreign citizens who held an Indian passport at any time.
- Individuals whose parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were Indian citizens.
- Spouses of Indian citizens or PIOs.
Documentation And Processing
OCI Documents Required:
- Passport photographs (4), previous Indian passport (if available), birth certificate, proof of foreign citizenship.
- Proof of relationship if applying based on Indian parentage.
- Processing involves a 2-step process with approval from the Consulate and attachment of OCI stickers to the passport.
PIO Documents Required:
- Original or expired Indian passport, and at least two other documents from the list such as birth certificates or nationality certificates.
- Spouses must provide the marriage certificate and spouse’s Indian passport or PIO card.
- Processing involves a 1-step process with all documents submitted together.
Benefits Of OCI vs. PIO
| Benefit | OCI | PIO |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Requirement | No visa required for entry to India. | No visa required for entry to India for 15 years. |
| Registration with FRO/FRRO | Not required for any stay duration. | Required if staying beyond 180 days. |
| Economic Rights | Same as Indian citizens (excluding agricultural/plantation property) | Same as Indian citizens (excluding agricultural/plantation property). |
| Employment | No employment visa required; unrestricted employment except in protected areas. | No employment visa required; restricted registration after 180 days. |
| Education | No education visa required; eligible for NRI quota. | No education visa required; eligible for NRI quota. |
| Taxation | Taxed on income earned in India; no tax on immovable property unless sold. | Taxed on income earned in India; no tax on immovable property unless sold. |
Restrictions For Both OCI And PIO
- Cannot vote in Indian elections.
- Cannot hold constitutional positions or government jobs.
- Cannot own agricultural or plantation property.
- Requires special permits for research, missionary work, or entering protected areas.
Simplify Your OCI Process With Bharat Suvidha
The Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card is no longer issued, but transitioning to an Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card is now easier than ever with Bharat Suvidha.
Whether you’re applying for a new OCI, updating your details, or handling any other OCI-related tasks, we offer a streamlined 3-step process to guide you through.
Our 3-Step OCI Process
Sign Up & Provide Details
- Begin by signing up with us and providing your personal information and any details relevant to your OCI service needs.
Expert Handling of Application
Our experienced team will carefully manage your application, ensuring all information is accurate and correctly filled out to avoid delays.
Application Lodged & Processed
- Once your application is complete, we will promptly submit it on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and efficient processing experience.
With the PIO card now obsolete, Bharat Suvidha is here to make your transition to an OCI card smooth and hassle-free. Contact us today to start your OCI application process!
