What is the difference between PIO and OCI?

A PIO card allows visa-free travel from and to India to the person holding a valid card. A PIO card is considered valid only if you hold a valid passport. On the contrary, an OCI card allows lifetime visa-free traveling to and from India. However, their children are eligible to hold an OCI card.

Does PIO card need to be changed to OCI?

Yes, it is. All Person of Indian Origin Cardholders are deemed to be OCI Cardholders in India’s Citizenship Amendment Bill 2015. Hence, you need to convert your PIO card to OCI card before or by December 31, 2021. Until then, your PIO card is valid for travel to India.

Do PIO card holders need visa?

i) PIO card holders do not require a visa to visit India for a period of 15 years from the date of issue of the PIO card. They need prior permission for undertaking mountaineering, missionary activities, research work and to visit restricted areas in India.

Does Pio need visa India?

PIO cardholders do not need a visa if they wish to visit India for up to 15 years from the issuance of a PIO Card. They can study or work for private institutions in India without a special visa. They have the same financial and economic benefits as NRIs.

Does PIO card expire?

What is the Validity of the PIO Card? The PIO Card will have a validity of 15 years subject to the condition that a valid Passport accompanies it.

Is PIO card discontinued?

Discontinuation of Person of Indian Origin (PIO) Card Scheme 2015 are deemed to be OCI cards. As such the PIO cards issued till 09.01. 2015 are deemed to be OCI cards but henceforth applicants may apply for OCI card only, as PIO card scheme is no longer in existence.

How long does it take to get OCI in lieu of Pio?

8 to 10 weeks
Application Processing Once verified, CKGS will submit your application to the Embassy or Consulate for your jurisdiction. OCI application processing time takes 8 to 10 weeks.

What are benefits of Pio?

Benefits of PIO Card: They can stay for up to 180 days In India without registration to FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Office). They can study or work for private institutions in India without a special visa. They have the same financial and economic benefits as NRIs.

Can Pio have PAN card?

Even if you are a foreign citizen who wants to apply for a PAN card in India, you will have to start by filling out the form. You can visit the TIN-NSDL website and fill out form 49AA. Individuals who have foreign nationalities, OCI holders and PIOs need to use this form to get a PAN Card.

What is difference between OCI and Pio?

Difference Between OCI and PIO. 1.PIO covers self, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and spouse while OCI only covers self, parents, and grandparents. 2.OCI has no set limit of days staying in the country while PIO requires contacting the officials with 180 days of residing in the country. 3.PIO lasts for 15 years; OCI lasts a lifetime.

What is the difference between PIO card and OCI card?

Differences Between PIO and OCI Card PIO cards are generally issued to persons of Indian origin who have settled abroad for a generation or more. On the other hand, OCI cards are issued to more recent migrants to another nation. OCI cards can be thought of as virtual multiple entry visas.

What are Pio and OCI schemes?

The PIO and OCI merger schemes mean that you will enjoy benefits like life-long entry visa to India and be able to participate in economic activities in India. you should know that PIO and OCI card holders do not allow you dual citizenship.

How is PIO card different from OCI card?

Summary: PIO covers self, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and spouse while OCI only covers self, parents, and grandparents. OCI has no set limit of days staying in the country while PIO requires contacting the officials with 180 days of residing in the country. PIO lasts for 15 years; OCI lasts a lifetime.