As per Government of India directives, the Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card scheme has been merged with the OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) card scheme. All PIO cards are now considered invalid for travel, and holders are required to convert them to OCI cards to continue availing immigration and residency benefits in India.
This conversion is mandatory for all PIO cardholders intending to travel to India, as airlines and immigration authorities no longer accept PIO cards as valid travel documents.
Document Checklist
- Printout of the Online Submitted Application Form:
Click here to submit - Misc. Form: Upload the filled Miscellaneous Form (if applicable).
- Original and Copy of Current Passport:
Passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months at the time of submission. - Copy of Cancelled Indian Passport:
Submit a copy of your previously held Indian passport, if applicable. - Original and Copy of PIO Card:
If you hold a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card, include both original and copy. - Proof of Residence in Korea:
(e.g., F-5 visa, electricity bill, or any other valid proof of residence) - Original and Copies of Both Parents’ Passports or Aadhaar Cards:
Required for verification of parental details. - For Married Applicants:
– Original and copy of spouse’s passport
– English marriage certificate with Apostille - Soft copy and two hard copies of recent Passport-Size Photographs:
(2 inch x 2 inch, white background) - A digital photo file needed.
Note: Additional documents may be requested during processing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it mandatory to convert a PIO card to an OCI card?
Yes. As per Government of India notification, all PIO cards have been merged into the OCI scheme, and PIO cardholders must convert to OCI. PIO cards are no longer considered valid for travel.
2. What is the deadline for PIO to OCI conversion?
Although multiple deadlines were issued earlier, PIO cards are now deemed invalid for international travel. Conversion to OCI is required before traveling to India.
3. What documents are required for PIO to OCI conversion?
Please check “Documents Checklist”.
4. Is there a fee for converting a PIO card to an OCI card?
Please check “Fee Details”.
5. How do I apply for PIO to OCI conversion?
You need to apply online through the OCI Services portal by selecting the “PIO to OCI” conversion option. After completing the online form, visit Du Digital ICAC or the local Indian Mission/Post for document verification and submission.
6. Will I receive a new OCI card number after conversion?
Yes. A new OCI card and a unique OCI number will be issued upon successful conversion. Your PIO card will be collected and cancelled.
7. Can I travel to India using my old PIO card?
No. PIO cards are no longer accepted as valid travel documents. You must carry your current passport along with a valid OCI card to enter India.
8. What is the processing time for PIO to OCI conversion?
Processing usually takes 2-3 months, depending on document verification and clearance. Applicants are notified by email/SMS, and status can be tracked on the OCI portal.
9. Will my visa privileges remain the same after conversion?
Yes. After conversion, the OCI card provides the same privileges including lifelong visa-free entry to India, exemption from police registration, and parity with NRIs in economic and educational fields, excluding agricultural land acquisition.
10. What happens if I delay the conversion?
Delaying the conversion may result in denial of entry into India and could cause difficulties in accessing consular services or benefits. It is advised to complete the conversion before your next travel to India.
