What is the Difference Between an OCI Card and a Visa to India?

PR Posted by: Pooja Reddy
• 05 June, 2025
5 Reply

The difference between an OCI card and a visa to India is that an OCI is a lifetime visa that allows a person to travel and stay in India for an indefinite period, while a regular Indian visa is for a short-term entry permit issued for various purposes, like tourism, business, and education. OCI card offers a lifetime entry and exit, while visas are typically valid for a shorter duration.

Tags : OCI vs Visa, difference between OCI card and visa, lifetime visa

  • Ravi Kumar 12 June, 2025

    If you wish to stay in India for a longer duration, then OCI is generally the better option because it grants permanent residency status and has fewer restrictions. However, if you travel occasionally or for a shorter duration, then a visa might be enough.

  • Priya Desai 12 June, 2025

    The choice between an OCI card (Overseas Citizen of India) and a visa depends on your needs and situation. An OCI card is a form of permanent residency in India, with which the cardholder can live and work for as long as they want. On the other hand, a visa allows you to stay in India for a specific period and may require renewal or extensions.

  • Deepa Iyer 11 June, 2025

    There are significant differences between an OCI card and a visa to India. To clear your confusion, an OCI card is essentially a lifelong visa that permits multiple entry and multi-purpose access to India. On the other hand, a visa is a temporary entry permit issued for a specific purpose and duration.

  • Anil Mehta 10 June, 2025

    Having an OCI card is always the best option because it lasts a lifetime. Long-term visas may have to be renewed when they expire, but OCI remains valid for a lifetime, so there is no stress of applying for extensions or applying for a visa each time you visit India.

  • Vikram Singh 10 June, 2025

    I was born in the US, but my father is of Indian origin, and I was planning a journey to India after a few months. Should I apply for an OCI card or the usual visa, as I was planning to stay in India for more than 6-7 months?

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