OCI Information

• The OCI scheme is operational from 2nd day of December in the year 2005.The Constitution of India does not allow holding Indian citizenship and citizenship of a foreign country simultaneously.

Note: It may take more than normal time for the OCI to be ready. Therefore, it is advised that please do not buy tickets in anticipation of receipt of OCI.

The following benefits will accrue to an OCI:

1. A multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa for visiting India.
2. Exemption from registration with the local police authorities for any length of stay in India.
3. Parity with Resident Indians in respect of economic, financial, and educational fields, except in relation to acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.
4. Parity with Resident Indians in respect of -
   a) entry fee to be charged for visiting the national monuments, historical sites and museums in India
   b) pursuing the following professions in India, in pursuance of the provisions contained in the relevant Acts, namely, doctors, dentists, nurses and pharmacists; advocates, architects, chartered accountants,
   c) to appear for the All India Pre-medical Test or such other tests to make them eligible for admission in pursuance of the provisions contained in the relevant Acts.
   

Any other benefits to OCIs will be notified by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) under Section 7B (1) of the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Benefits to which OCI is not entitled to:

1. To be a member of a Legislative Assembly or of a Legislative Council or of the Parliament of India,
2. To hold Indian constitutional posts such as that of the President, Vice President, Judge of the Supreme Court or High Court etc.
3. He/she cannot normally hold employment in the Government