Is OCI Better Than PIO?

MT Posted by: Megha Tandon
• 05 June, 2025
4 Reply

Yes, in my opinion, an OCI is better than a PIO. An OCI card offers more extensive benefits and has lifelong validity, allowing you to travel to India without needing to apply for a visa each time. While PIO cards initially offer visa-free travel, they have a validity of only 15 years.

Tags : OCI vs PIO, which is better OCI or PIO, OCI, PIO

  • Rajesh Gupta 17 June, 2025

    In my opinion, an OCI is better than a PIO due to its lifelong validity, visa-free travel, and extensive privileges in India. An OCI card provides greater access to the Indian economy, finance, and education. They are also allowed to work in most sectors except for government jobs. They can purchase and own a non-farm property and can even open special bank accounts offering competitive interest rates and benefits. Additionally, the PIO card has been replaced by the OCI scheme.

  • Snehal Patil 15 June, 2025

    An OCI card is preferable to a PIO card as it offers more extensive rights and a broader scope. They get to enjoy lifelong visa-free travel to India and are exempt from registering with the police for any duration of stay in India. Also, they have parity with NRIs in economic, financial, and educational fields.

  • Yuvraj Dahiya 10 June, 2025

    As a PIO cardholder, I am aware that an OCI card is considered superior to a PIO card. Although I haven't applied for an OCI card yet, I now want to. I am not aware of the deadline for the PIO to OCI conversion. I know the deadline has been extended to this year. Could someone please inform me of the deadline to apply for PIO to OCI conversion?

  • Sneha Nair 09 June, 2025

    I believe an OCI card is preferable to a PIO because I am an OCI cardholder myself, and I have enjoyed numerous benefits with my OCI card. I can stay in India for as long as I want and visit at any time without frequently renewing my visa. I can buy a property and also work and participate in business activities. So, yes, I completely agree with the statement that an OCI is better than a PIO.

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