IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? The Indian government has announced that the deadline for Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card holders to convert to Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards has been extended to Dec 31.

What does the change mean? PIO card holders will have until the end of 2016 to convert their PIO cards to OCI cards.

  • Implementation time frame: Dec. 31.
  • Visas/permits affected: PIO and OCI cards.
  • Who is affected: PIO cardholders.
  • Next steps: Although the time to convert to an OCI card has been extended again, BAL continues recommended that applicants submit their applications as soon as possible.

Background: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj announced at a press conference on Sunday that the PIO-OCI conversion deadline would be extended again. India has already extended the deadline a number of times, most recently until June 30. The ministry has again decided to give more time to PIO card holders to submit their applications for registration as an OCI card holder, but Swaraj stated that she would like to see the process complete by the end of the year.

BAL Analysis: BAL recommends that PIO cardholders complete the conversion to OCI cards as soon as possible in order to avoid travel interruptions. Applicants should check with their local FRRO office, overseas mission or consulate on specific procedures and requirements, as procedures may vary.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in India. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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