Difference Between PIO and OCI Cards Explained

Posted on: Nov 7, 2023 | | Written by: None

Difference Between PIO and OCI Cards Explained

An Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card or a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card was originally available to Indian nationals residing abroad. Although both types of cards were introduced under schemes, they were later merged. At present, PIO cardholders are converting to OCI cardholders to enjoy the additional benefits offered to them under the scheme. You are suggested to get your international travel insurance handy.

The rights and advantages granted by the Indian government to a PIO are distinct from those granted to an OCI. OCI cardholders have wider rights and may remain in India permanently with additional perks, while PIO cardholders' rights and privileges are more restricted. PIO cardholders can only work in India; however, they must carry their international travel insurance with them.

Person of Indian Origin (PIO) - Meaning

A PIO or Person of Indian Origin is someone who is not an Indian citizen but can prove their Indian ancestry by birth, descent, or citizenship in India. Spouses of Indian nationals and anyone who could prove a strong tie to India by marriage, ancestry, or other means were subsequently added to the list of acceptable applicants. The PIO card was introduced in 1999 to build a valid and legal connection of PIOs to India.

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) - Meaning

Foreign citizens of Indian ancestry have the option of applying for a long-term visa as OCI. The OCI card was introduced in 2005 as a form of permanent residency for Indian origin people living overseas. It provides various privileges to anyone who can prove their Indian ancestry by bloodlines or marriage. Spouses and the underage children of Indian citizens and OCI cardholders are included as well.

Differences Between PIO and OCI

The following chart states the difference between PIO and OCI:

	PIO	OCI
Citizenship	PIOs are not citizens of India and do not have that status.	The rights and privileges of OCI cards are comparable to those of Indian nationals.
Visa	PIOs are required to get visas for each trip.	Holders of OCI cards receive multiple entry visas to India, valid for life.
Property Ownership	In India, some regulations prevent PIOs from buying or selling agricultural or plantation land.	Property ownership in India is not restricted in any way for OCI cardholders.

Process for Application, Eligibility & Advantages

OCI

1. Eligibility:

Here’s the eligibility criteria for the OCI card:

• Individuals who have acquired Indian citizenship either on or after 26th January, 1950.

• Individuals who are children (minors) of such persons.

• Individuals who are spouses of such individuals or OCI cardholders. They must have been married for at least 2 years.

2. Procedure for Applying:

You have two options to apply for OCI status: you can either do it through an Indian embassy or consulate or conveniently apply online. When applying, you'll typically need to provide documents like proof of your Indian heritage, evidence of your current citizenship, any marriage documents if relevant, and make sure to include the required photographs.

3. Benefits:

Here are some benefits for OCI cardholders:

• OCI cardholders can visit India without obtaining a visa.

• OCI cardholders enjoy the right to work in India, except in some government jobs.

• OCI cardholders can acquire property in India.

• OCI cardholders can apply to educational institutions.

• OCI cardholders get access to business, real estate investments, and trading on the stock exchange are just some of the economic opportunities open to OCI cardholders in India. They are afforded the same monetary freedom as citizens of India and non-resident Indians. However, you must carry your travel insurance with you.

PIO

1. Eligibility:

Here’s the eligibility criteria for PIO cards:

• Individuals who have been citizens of India.

• Individuals whose ancestors were citizens of India.

• Individuals who are spouses of such persons or PIO cardholders.

Note: Since the PIO scheme has been merged with OCI scheme, new PIO card applications can not be processed.

2. Procedure for Applying:

After the merging of the PIO and OCI schemes, any new applications for PIO cards are not accepted. To enjoy the benefits provided under the scheme, you can apply for an OCI card following the due process.

3. Benefits:

Take a look at some of the benefits of holding a PIO card:

• PIO cardholders can visit India without any visa requirements.

• PIO cardholders are allowed to stay in India for 15 years.

• PIO cardholders are allowed to acquire property in India.

• PIO cardholders can open bank accounts in India.

• PIO cardholders can operate a business in India.

Is it necessary to have travel insurance being an OCI or PIO card holder?

When travelling as a bearer of a PIO or OCI card, it is strongly advised that you get travel insurance. Travel insurance online gives you extra financial security and ease of mind while you're away from home, even though PIO and OCI status come with certain advantages. Here are some advantages of opting for an overseas travel insurance:

1. Protection against baggage or document loss.

2. Protection against flight delays or cancellations.

3. Protection against trip extension or alterations.

4. Protection in case of medical emergencies.

Conclusion

The PIO and OCI cards were introduced by the government of India to provide a helping hand for Indians who have settled in different parts of the world. Both the cards have been merged under the same scheme to streamline the application process, benefits and a lot more. In addition to holding these cards, a travel insurance plan is always advised to stay protected against common travel issues.

FAQs

1. Can OCI/PIO holders buy agricultural land in India?

No, they are not allowed to buy agricultural land in India.

2. Do OCI cardholders need a visa to visit India?

No, OCI cardholders don’t need a visa to visit India.

3. Can an OCI cardholder convert to Indian citizenship?

Yes. A person with an OCI card for 5 years and who has resided in India for 1 year out of the above 5 years is eligible to apply for Indian Citizenship.

4. Can OCI holders vote or hold government jobs in India?

No, they can not vote or hold government jobs in India.

5. Is PIO still valid, or has it been completely replaced by OCI?

Yes, PIO has been replaced by OCI. PIO cardholders with a valid card as of 09.01.2015 are deemed to be OCI cardholders.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

Difference Between NRI and OCI

Easiest Countries to Get Citizenship for Indians

Easy Steps to Get a Passport for Seniors in India

Top Digital Nomad Visas for Indian Citizens

Obtaining Iceland Citizenship for Indians: Comprehensive Guide