What is an OCI Card?

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a permanent residence option for persons of Indian descent and their spouses. This status grants individuals certain privileges and freedoms in India.

The Indian government launched the OCI program to make it easier for international persons of Indian heritage who hold dual citizenship but do not have Indian passports to go to India. However, because OCI cardholders do not have full Indian citizenship, they have some limits in terms of political rights and the ability to occupy constitutional posts in India. Here are some key points about OCI:

Rights and Benefits:

• OCI cards can enter and depart India without an Indian visa.
• They can stay and work in India indefinitely.
• They can access some economic privileges, such as opening bank accounts, purchasing property, and investing in India.

Limitations:

• They are unable to vote in Indian elections or hold public office.
• They aren’t eligible for some government employment.
• They are unable to acquire agricultural or plantation property.

Validity: The OCI card has lifelong validity.