PIO was used to be considered a visa with a validity of 15 years for non-Indian citizens. However, this scheme has been withdrawn by the Indian government and merged with the Overseas Citizen of India scheme. The OCI card is known as a lifetime visa status for foreign citizens who are of Indian origin, and it is the closest thing India offers for dual citizenship. Currently, all PIO cardholders are treated as OCI cardholders. So, yes, it is mandatory to convert your PIO card to an OCI card.
According to me, yes, it is mandatory to convert your PIO card to an OCI card, as the PIO scheme is merged with the OCI scheme. Additionally, the Indian government has also requested all the PIO cardholders to convert their PIO card to OCI cards. As per my knowledge, the last date of the conversion process is 31 December 2025.
Yes, it is mandatory to convert your PIO card to an OCI card. It is because the Indian government has withdrawn the PIO scheme and merged it with the OCI scheme. So, if you want to enjoy the benefits and privileges while visiting India, it is mandatory to do the conversion process.
Yes, it is compulsory to convert your existing PIO card to an OCI card, as from 31 December 2025, these cards will no longer remain valid to use in India.
The Indian government has merged the PIO card scheme with the OCI card scheme. In addition, asked all the PIO cardholders to convert their existing PIO card to OCI cards to enjoy the privileges and benefits India offers to its foreign individuals who belong to Indian origin. So, as per the Indian government guidelines, it is mandatory to do the conversion.
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Here is the simple application process to convert a PIO to an OCI card. First, you need to visit the OCI services website, then choose the registration option of an...
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OCI card allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to stay, work, and live in India for an indefinite period. It allows applicants to enter India visa-free anytime without reporting the...
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OCI card is used to have multiple lifelong visa-free for the foreign nationals of Indian origin. To change any details in your OCI card, you need to visit the official...
You can easily apply for the Renunciation or surrender of an OCI card from the official website of the OCI Services. You need to fill out an application form for...
The disadvantages of an OCI card are that you cannot vote in Indian elections or have no voting rights in the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state legislative assemblies, or any...
OCI card is a travel and identification document that helps Indian origin foreign nationals to work or live in India for indefinite periods. Through the OCI card, you get a...
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Yes, PIO to OCI conversion is mandatory to do as this scheme has been withdrawn by the Indian government and merged with the OCI. Till 31 December 2025, you can use this card to travel to India. After that, you need an OCI card if you want to travel visa-free in India.