Can I still use my PIO card to travel to India?
The Immigration Office will accept PIO cards as a valid travel document until December 31, 2021, along with a valid foreign passport. Indian immigration checkpoints will continue to consider all PIO cards valid for exit/entry from/to India until 31st December 2021.
How long can a PIO holder stay in India?
PIO card holders do not need a visa if they wish to visit India up to 15 years from the issuance of a PIO card. They can stay up to 180 days in India without registering at the FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Office).
Is it mandatory to switch from PIO to OCI?
Is it mandatory to convert the PIO card to an OCI card? Yes it is. All Person of Indian Origin cardholders are considered as OCI cardholders in the Indian Citizenship Bill 2015. Therefore, you must convert your PIO card to an OCI card on or before December 31, 2021.
How can I convert my PIO card to OCI in India?
You can convert a PIO card to an OCI card if you qualify, and the fees are very minimal. You can start the process by going to http://passport.gov.in/oci/.
Who is eligible for the PIO card?
Iranian nationals of Indian origin may be considered for the granting of a PIO card. Missions or other agencies authorized to issue the PIO card would obtain prior permission from the Ministry of Interior before issuing the card to an Iranian national. 2. Where can I apply for a PIO Card?
Are OCI and NRI the same?
NRI status can also be granted to citizens who live abroad but have Indian-related roots, either through their parents or guardians. On the other hand, OCI card holders are foreigners or citizens who wish to work or study in Indian territory.
How long is Pio valid?
15 years old
What is the validity of the PIO card? A PIO card is valid for a period of 15 years from the date of issue but is subject to the validity of the applicant’s passport.
What are the documents required for Pio at OCI?
Documents required for the OCI card
- Applicant’s original US/foreign passport valid for at least 6 months at time of application submission.
- Copy of US naturalization certificate/or birth certificate if you were born outside the US.
- Recent passport photo taken within the last 6 months showing current appearance.
Can a PIO cardholder travel to India without a visa?
So, if your card was issued on or before January 8, 2015, you can travel to India without a visa. But, if your card is invalid, you will not be able to travel to India without a visa unless you get your OCI card. It takes about ten weeks to obtain an OCI card after applying for it.
What are the advantages of having a PIO card?
Benefits of a PIO card:- (i) PIO card holders do not need a visa to visit India for a period of 15 years from the date of issue of the PIO card. (ii) They are exempt from registration with the FRRO/FRO if their stay does not exceed 180 days. If the stay exceeds 180 days, they must register with the FRRO/FRO within the following 30 days.
When is the deadline to convert Pio to OCI in India?
The deadline for foreign citizens of Indian origin to convert their PIO cards to OCI cards has been extended. Previously, the Indian government set September 30, 2020 as the deadline.
Are there any restrictions for OCI, PIO cardholders?
Are there any restrictions for OCI, PIO cardholders? No, all OCI and PIO cardholders are allowed. In addition, the Center also authorized in June the entry of foreign minor children with at least one parent being an Indian citizen or an OCI card holder.
