New rules implemented for OCI cardholders conducting research, other activities

India has tightened rules for some Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.

Key Points:

• Special Permits required for some activities. OCI cardholders will still be able to visit, live or work in India without obtaining a visa. However, officials have reiterated that OCI cardholders will be required to obtain a Special Permit in order to:
  • Undertake research.
  • Undertake missionary or tabligh activities, mountaineering or journalistic activities.
  • Work or complete an internship at a foreign diplomatic mission in India.
  • Visit any area that is protected, restricted or prohibited by the central government or the competent local authority.
• Changes in permanent address and occupation. OCI cardholders will continue to be exempt from rules requiring foreign nationals to register with Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs) or Foreigners Registration Offices (FROs). However, OCI cardholders normally resident in India are now required to contact the appropriate FRRO or FRO by email to notify them of any changes in their permanent address or occupation.

Additional Information: Additional information on OCI holders’ rights and obligations is available in this notice from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should make sure that OCI cardholders obtain a Special Permit, if required, and provide notice of any changes in their permanent residence or occupation.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.