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An OCI card, or Overseas Citizenship of India card, is a long-term, multiple-entry, multi-purpose visa that allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to live and work in India indefinitely. It essentially grants permanent residency status in India. The OCI card was introduced to cater to the demands of people of Indian origin who wanted to maintain ties with India while holding citizenship of another country.
Key Features of the OCI Card:
Long-term residency:
OCI cardholders can live and work in India without needing to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) for any length of stay.
Multiple entry visa:
The OCI card provides a lifelong visa for multiple entries into India for any purpose.
Benefits:
OCI cardholders enjoy several benefits, including the ability to own property (excluding agricultural land and farmhouses), pursue various professions, and make investments in India.
Exemptions:
OCI cardholders are exempt from registering with the FRRO/FRO.
Eligibility:
Individuals who were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or who were eligible to be citizens of India on that date, or who belonged to a territory that became part of India after August 15, 1947, are eligible for OCI. Descendants (children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren) of such individuals are also eligible