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India has revised its Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) programme with wider eligibility and tighter compliance rules, according to Fragomen. The Ministry of Home Affairs has overhauled the system after more than a decade, introducing changes that will impact foreign nationals of Indian origin and existing OCI card holders.
The new framework removes the earlier requirement of a six-month stay in India before applying for an OCI card. Eligible applicants with a valid long-term visa and required documents can now submit their application soon after arriving in the country. As per Fragomen report, this is expected to reduce administrative delays and support easier mobility for applicants.
Stricter compliance rules for OCI holders
The changes also introduce stricter compliance rules for OCI holders. A fine of US $25, or its equivalent in local currency, will apply if individuals fail to update their new passport details on the OCI portal within three months of issuance of the passport. Authorities have added this step to ensure timely record updates and better tracking of identity documents.
(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)
Alongside this, India has upgraded its biometric verification systems linked to OCI processing. These systems will enable faster “e-gate” immigration clearance at airports through real-time matching of passport and OCI data.
The new framework removes the earlier requirement of a six-month stay in India before applying for an OCI card. Eligible applicants with a valid long-term visa and required documents can now submit their application soon after arriving in the country. As per Fragomen report, this is expected to reduce administrative delays and support easier mobility for applicants.
Stricter compliance rules for OCI holders
The changes also introduce stricter compliance rules for OCI holders. A fine of US $25, or its equivalent in local currency, will apply if individuals fail to update their new passport details on the OCI portal within three months of issuance of the passport. Authorities have added this step to ensure timely record updates and better tracking of identity documents.Faster access to OCI applications after arrival
Under the revised rules, foreign nationals will no longer need to wait for a six-month stay period in India to apply for OCI registration. Fragomen noted that applicants can now begin the process shortly after entry if they meet eligibility conditions. The update is expected to streamline application timelines and improve administrative efficiency.(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)
Wider eligibility and tighter monitoring system
The government has also expanded eligibility for OCI cards. Fifth- and sixth-generation Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka are now included in the programme. Earlier, eligibility was limited to fourth-generation descendants. As per Fragomen report, this expansion will benefit a larger section of the Sri Lankan diaspora, especially communities with limited historical documentation.Alongside this, India has upgraded its biometric verification systems linked to OCI processing. These systems will enable faster “e-gate” immigration clearance at airports through real-time matching of passport and OCI data.
