PIO or OCI?

In late September I am leaving with my 25 month old for 6+ months in South Goa. My spouse, though not traveling to Goa until March, holds an Indian passport. My daughter and I are American by birth. I know that I can apply here for her OCI card, but given the time it could take to process that, as well as the cost($275), I am wondering if it is better to apply for PIO cards for both of us. It appears the PIO takes 15 days and while $310 for me, for her it is only $155. To upgrade her to an OCI, it looks like it is only $25, plus the processing fee. Am I missing any fine print here? Also, can anyone tell me how long it took to actually get their PIO from Washington, D.C., and what your experience using it in Mumbai and Goa have been? Also, does anyone know if I can send both applications for PIO together? I have to send 2 copies of both. Thanks!

The OCI scheme has recieved a fair bit of flak because it really isn't a true dual citizenship and doesn't off much beyond the PIO card besides not having to register with the authorities after living in India for six months. The PIO card is good for 15 years while the OCI is for life.

Some people have raised questions about what country would provide consular protection to OCI holders.

I guess if you'd like to skip the inconvenience of registering in India the OCI might be worth it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by miranda3123 In late September I am leaving with my 25 month old for 6+ months in South Goa. My spouse, though not traveling to Goa until March, holds an Indian passport. My daughter and I are American by birth. I know that I can apply here for her OCI card, but given the time it could take to process that, as well as the cost($275), I am wondering if it is better to apply for PIO cards for both of us. It appears the PIO takes 15 days and while $310 for me, for her it is only $155. To upgrade her to an OCI, it looks like it is only $25, plus the processing fee. Am I missing any fine print here? Also, can anyone tell me how long it took to actually get their PIO from Washington, D.C., and what your experience using it in Mumbai and Goa have been? Also, does anyone know if I can send both applications for PIO together? I have to send 2 copies of both. Thanks!

I applied to "upgrade" PIO to OCI in mid Feb and received OK April 23 - they say it takes about 2 months. I applied in Canada.
I have no idea about applying in India or UK.

Yes, both (or all family that is children as well) can apply at the same time.

If I remember, the initial application is done on-line. The completed "form" clicks-goes to Indian embassy, High Commission. You have to follow up with another printed "form" plus send "original" documents and pictures with the second "form".

The high commission calls you/ or e-mails if they need more documents besides the PIO card. Then just wait.

On completing the online "form" you receive a "number" that allows you to "check" via "internet" website when your OCI is ready for pick up. You enter your "number" and the response shows up on the screen.

Main websites:
On line application - OCI
http://ociindia.nic.in/ociindia/Onli...istrationG.jsp

http://www.mha.nic.in/citizenship/fo...i_form-19b.pdf

http://www.mha.nic.in/oci/oci-main.htm

Well, after sending in the PIO application on 7 August for myself and my little daughter...it arrived in the mail on Friday, August 18...glad to be rid of this worry! Now can someone tell me what to do to get the most out of this thing?

Brilliant! That must be almost as quick as an ordinary visa!

• Spend lots of time in India
• Buy a house in India
• Get work in India
• Spend even more time in India

Enjoy

Thanks! Nick, but I am a bit ahead of the game: I own a house in Goa, I will be there 7 months from October, and I am seeking employment in any tourist-related business...any ideas??? Thank You!, by the way!

Well, yes, my reply was meant to be more humerous than useful . The two main things being property ownership and work --- and as you say, you know that already.

I'm sure you'll find opportunities on the ground, or maybe start something of your own. Having the PIO should mean far fewer worries on the beaurocracy front.

Hi,
I am applying for my OCI in India and I have a canadian Passport.
Will applying for OCI affect my Canadian Nationality.
I am asking this coz I read a similar line on this forum "Avoid dual citizenship like the plague ".
Is this true?
Any response would be appreciated.
Thanks,
~Abhi

you'll have to check with the Canadian authorities. IMHO, the OCI was designed to cause minimal problems with countries that frown on dual citizenship

I agree. The whole point of OIC is that it is not Indian citizenship, therefore it should not affect your Canadian citizenship.

Hi,
Thanks a lot for your replies. I checked both with the Canadian and Indian authorities and it does not affect Canadian status in any way.
Thanks,
~Abhi