OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India)

Learn about OCI

OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) is a form of permanent residency. It is available to individuals of Indian origin and their descendants. These individuals must be citizens of certain countries. The Indian government introduced it to facilitate easier travel to India. It also grants specific rights, such as residency and employment.
OCI cardholders must stay informed about regulation changes and comply with reporting and renewal requirements.

The Constitution of India does not permit dual citizenship (under Article 9). The Government of India decided to register Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) of a specific category. This decision was based on the recommendations of a High-Level Committee on the Indian Diaspora. This is specified in Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955. These PIOs were registered as Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) holders by the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003.
The OCI program was launched during the “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas” convention held in Hyderabad on 9 January 2006.

for more information
https://ociservices.gov.in/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overseas_Citizenship_of_India

The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) comes with certain limitations and restrictions:

  • Not Citizenship: OCI is not citizenship. It’s a form of permanent residency. It grants certain privileges to individuals of Indian origin and their descendants. However, it does not confer citizenship rights, such as the right to vote.
  • Travel to India: Multiple entry, multi-purpose, lifelong visa to visit India.
  • Restrictions on Political Rights: OCI cardholders are ineligible to vote, hold constitutional positions, or purchase agricultural land** in India.
  • Limited Rights for Certain Professions: OCI cardholders may face restrictions in certain professions. These include government employment and roles that require security clearance.
  • Travel Restrictions to Restricted Areas: OCI cardholders may require special permission for certain activities in India. These activities include missionary work, mountaineering, research, and journalism.
  • Renunciation of Citizenship: If an individual obtains Indian citizenship after acquiring OCI, they must renounce their OCI status. The same applies if they obtain citizenship of another country.
  • Renewal and Reporting Obligations: OCI cardholders must renew their OCI cards every 10 years. They must also report changes in personal particulars and passport details. Exemption from reporting to Police authorities for any length of stay in India
  • Potential Changes in Regulations: OCI status regulations may evolve, affecting the rights and privileges associated with OCI.

Land ownership rights for OCI cardholders:

  • Agricultural Land: OCI cardholders are typically not allowed to purchase agricultural land in India. This restriction preserves agricultural resources and protects the interests of Indian farmers.
  • **Inheritance: OCI cardholders may inherit agricultural land from a relative who was an Indian citizen or from an Indian citizen through gift or will. In such cases, they are permitted to hold agricultural land.
  • Residential and Commercial Property: OCI cardholders are generally allowed to own residential and commercial properties in India. This is subject to certain conditions and regulations.
  • Renunciation Requirement: If an OCI cardholder acquires Indian citizenship or citizenship of another country, they must renounce their OCI status. Upon renunciation, they may face additional restrictions or requirements regarding land ownership in India.

It’s important to note that regulations regarding land ownership can vary by state or union territory in India. There may be exceptions or changes to the rules over time. It’s advisable to consult legal experts. You should also contact Indian authorities for the most up-to-date information about land ownership rights for OCI cardholders.