All Overseas Citizens of India can now complete and submit the e-Arrival card online within 72 hours before arriving in India.
The submission can be done at boi.gov.in, indianvisaonline.gov.in, or via the official ‘Indian Visa Su-Swagatam’ mobile app.
Earlier, e-Arrival forms were distributed on flights to be filled out physically. The facility of physical filling of e-Arrival Card will also continue up to a maximum of 6 months, or till further notice.
What is an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholder?
The Government of India introduced the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) Card Schemes benefit the Indian Diasporas in terms of connectivity with the motherland, hassle-free travel to India, and advantages in social, economic, and educational fields.
The OCI Scheme, launched in August 2005, allows registration as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) for all Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) who were citizens of India on 26th January 1950 or thereafter, or were eligible to become citizens of India on that date — except those who are or had been citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, or any other country specified by the Central Government through notification in the Official Gazette.
Who is an OCI Cardholder?
A person is considered an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholder if he or she is registered by the Government of India under Section 7A of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2015.
FAQs
What documents to bring after e-Arrival submission?
After submitting the online application, foreigners must bring the originals of uploaded documents for verification. They are not required to carry hard copies or printouts of the application or uploaded files.
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Is a personal interview required at the Indian Mission/FRRO?
Yes. For new OCI card registrations, a personal interview is mandatory. However, children below 12 years are exempted.
Are children (foreigners) of a deceased Indian national entitled to OCI registration?
Yes.
Does an applicant lose citizenship upon OCI registration?
No.
Can an OCI Cardholder appear for Indian entrance exams?
Yes. OCI Cardholders are eligible to appear for all Indian entrance tests, including NEET, JEE (Mains), JEE (Advanced), AIPMT, and others. However, OCI Cardholders are not eligible for admission against seats reserved exclusively for Indian citizens.
