travelling to india with oci on old passport

Main Menu ×
Search Flights
Corporate Travel Programme
Group Booking
Special Offers
Travel Insurance
Flight Schedule
Check In Online
Manage Booking
Seat Selection & Upgrades
Self-Service Re-accommodation
Request Refund
Flight Status
Nonstop International Flights
Popular Flights
Partner Airlines

Baggage Guidelines
Airport Information
Visas, Documents and Travel Tips
First-time Travellers, Children and Pets
Health and Medical Assistance

At the Airport
The Air India Fleet

About Flying Returns
Sign In/Sign Up
Our Partners
Family Pool
Earn Points
Spend Points
Upgrade Cabin Class
Points Calculator
Customer Support

What are you looking for?

OCI Cardholders

Do you hold an oci card.

While your passport is the primary travel document, an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is more like a lifelong visa. Since the OCI cardholders are not considered Indian citizens, they must have a valid passport during their stay in the country.

What you need to keep in mind

The government of India has done away with the 'U' visa sticker on the passports of OCI cardholders. Immigration authorities shall not insist on producing foreign passports containing the 'U' visa sticker from OCI cardholders entering or exiting India. They will be given immigration clearance based on their valid foreign passport and OCI Registration Certificate (OCI booklet, also known as OCI card).
In cases where the applicant appears different than on the OCI card owing to age, cardholders aged 20 years or younger must renew their card each time a new passport is issued and once after completing 50 years of age.
For an OCI cardholder who is 21 to 49 years of age, re-issuance of OCI card registration is optional each time a new passport is issued. Applicants wishing to use this service can apply online under the OCI miscellaneous services.
In case of a change in nationality of OCI cardholders, they can enter or exit India on the strength of their OCI card and a valid passport of the new nationality. This rule does not apply to Pakistani and Bangladeshi passports. The OCI cardholder must update the new nationality through miscellaneous services.

Recent updates and news for OCI cardholders

For the most recent updates on OCI terms and conditions, please refer to the following links:

Bureau of Immigration – Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder

Ministry of Home Affairs – Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder

It seems like you're in landscape mode. For the best view, switch to portrait mode where the magic happens!

Welcome to Consulate General of India, New York (USA)

Skip to main content
Screen Reader Access
English Hindi

travelling to india with oci on old passport

Visa Guidelines for USA Passport Holders
Advisory on Satellite Phone
Emergency Entry Visa Guidelines
Visa for Diplomatic/ official/ Laissez-Passers Passport Holders
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Employment Visa
Transit Visa
Medical Visa
Student Visa (Study/Research /Internship)
Conference Visa
Mountaineering Visa
Missionary Visa
Journalist Visa(Journalist /Documentary filming)
Film Visa: Visa for shooting Feature Films
Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders/ Foreign Passport holders of Pakistani Origin
Important Advisory on Fake Indian eVisa websites
FAQ’s on Visa
General Passport Information
TATKAAL Passport Services
Public Advisory on Urgent Re-issuance of Passports
FAQ on Passport
EAMs Message on the occasion of Passport Seva Divas 2023 (24 Jun)
How to apply for OCI ?
When to Update/Reissue OCI
Renewal/Re-issue of OCI Card
General Information on OCI
Conversion of PIO card to OCI card
Instructions to Convert PIO Card to OCI Card
Renunciation of OCI
FAQ On OCI Related Matters
Notice regarding Dual Citizenship
FAQs on Misc. Service
Outsourcing of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Service for Indian Nationals with VFS Global
General Information
FAQs on Renunciation
Emergency Travel Document (Emergency Certificate-EC)
Calendar of upcoming Camps
Past Consular Camps
Import of Pet
Data of Death Record
Adult Protective Services (APS)
Empanelled NGOs with Consulate
Child Protective Services (CPS)
Assistance for distressed women in India
Minutes of Fourth Interaction-Community Organizations
Procedure for sending/ forwarding Court Order/ Summons
India: Leather Exports
DISCLAIMER: Links given to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement / promotion of external websites by the Consulate General of India, New York. This Consulate does not take responsibility for the content therein. It does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficiency, timeliness, or correct sequencing of such information. They are given solely for access to prima facie information.
अमरीका में हिंदी
Statement of Need Certificates for Medical Doctors
Equivalence Certificate
Open Admissions - School of International Cooperation, Security and Strategic Languages, Rashtriya Raksha University, India
CUNY India Study Abroad Program (July 30 –August 15, 2019)
RIT- OASIS organised Dandiya event with Mr. Jeffrey Cox, Director, International Student Services and Ms. Erica Ford, International Student Advisor
Meet and Greet for Indian Students in USA, 21 October 2022 Consulate General of India in New York in association with GOPIO- Manhattan organized the 'Annual Day for Indian Students in USA' on October 21, 2022 at the Consulate. The Chief Guest for the evening was Mrs. Chandrika Tandon, Chairperson of Tandon Capital Associates and a recognized business leader, Grammy- nominated artist and humanitarian.
Celebrating 20 years of Indian School of Business as part of Amrit Mahotsav. CGI, New York hosted ISB delegation led by Dean, its founding chairman & members and alumni on November 18, 2022
Advisory/Information for students desirous of Pursuing Medical Studies abroad
Fulbright - Nehru and Fulbright - Kalam Fellowships
Online Annual Hindi Learning Program by Yuva Hindi Sansthan.
Emergency Contact
PIB Accreditation
PRAMIT Pravasi Mitra (Helpline)

Home › What's New › Permitted categories for travel to India

Permitted categories for travel to India

PERMITTED CATEGORIES FOR TRAVEL TO INDIA

A. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholders

All OCI/PIO card holders are permitted to travel to India irrespective of their nationalities.

OCI Cards to be renewed only once in life after the attaining the age of 20 years and getting a new passport.

Renewal of OCI card for those who obtained OCI after 20 years of age is not required. They have to only upload details of their new Passport on the OCI portal once at the age of 50 .

F or Minors who are below 20 years of age, they have upload details of their passport every time they get a new passport.

It may be mentioned that the Government of India has also allowed extension till 31 December, 2021 for re-issuance of OCI Card. Further, there is no need to carry the old passport on which the OCI was issued.

The Government of India has restored visas, which had been suspended earlier, except Tourist Visas (e-Tourist and regular Tourist Visa) issued before 6 October 2021 and e-Visas of all other types issued before 30 March, 2021 .

Tourist visas (electronic and regular) are also being issued. Single Entry tourist will be granted with a validity for 120 days and a maximum stay permitted of 30 days within this 120 day period.

Applicants are also advised that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal.

All other visas, such as Regular Business/e-Business visa/ Regular Conference Visa/e-Conference Visa/Regular Medical/e-Medical Visa have been restored, if they are valid.

Nationals of Nepal and Bhutan are permitted to travel to India from any country (including any third country).

Tibetan migrants who have residence in India and holding Certificate of Identity issued by the Ministry of External Affairs and Return Visa to enter India, are permitted to travel to India. In case the visa has expired, an application for fresh visa may be made with the Embassy/concerned Consulate.

For any queries, the applicants may contact the Consulate through our Dashboard PRAMIT at www.indiainnewyork.gov.in

@IndiainNewYork @IndiainNewYork
CGI NewYork CGI NEW YORK
CGI NEWYORK CGI NEWYORK
PRAMIT PRAMIT
Google Feedback Google Feedback

Copyright policy
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Hyperlinking Policy
Accessibility Statement

Address: Consulate General of India, 3 East 64th Street (Between 5th and Madison Avenues), New York, NY 10065

Tel No. for all enquiries : +1 347-721-9243

Consulate closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays Official working hours: 9.00 AM - 5.30 PM EST Submission of documents/or any Consular Query: 09:30 am to 11:30 am Collection of documents: 04:00 pm - 04:30 pm For submission of documents : 09:15 am to 11:15 am (Monday to Friday) Delivery of documents : 11:30 am to 13:00 pm (Monday to Friday) --> For submission of documents : 9:15 am - 12:15 pm Delivery of documents : 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm-->

Visitors Since (June, 2018): 9320408

Page last updated on: May 15, 2024

Law Firm in India

Legal Articles

Rules & Restrictions for OCI Card Holders

February 23, 2024 | NRI Services Read in this piece about the rules and restrictions for OCI Card Holders in effect since March 2021.

Changes at a Glance

Most Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders do not need to have their OCI cards reissued every time they get a new passport.
Those having OCI cards issued before the cardholder was 20 years old, on the other hand, only need to get a new OCI card once when they get a new passport after turning 20.
There are new requirements for OCI cardholders who are under the age of 20 to notify the government when they receive a new passport, as well as for OCI cardholders who are married to Indian nationals or other OCI cardholders.
The government's eased OCI card re-issuance requirements decrease the administrative burden of needing to apply for a new OCI card and show the government's flexible attitude in the wake of recent restrictions for OCI card holders.

Overseas Citizen of India

People eligible to be registered as oci, application for oci card.

PIOs who have moved from India and earned citizenship in a foreign nation other than Pakistan or Bangladesh are eligible for Overseas Citizenship of India.
A visa that allows you to visit India multiple times and for multiple purposes for the rest of your life.
No need to report to the police for the duration of your stay in India.
Financial, economic, and educational parity with NRIs, save in the purchase of agricultural or plantation lands, and
A person who has been registered as an OCI for five years and has lived in India for one year out of the five years prior to filing the application is eligible to apply for Indian citizenship under section 5(1) (g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Benefits of OCI

The following benefits are not available to oci card holders:, change in rules, key changes introduced.

research activities;
missionary / Tabligh / mountaineering / journalistic activities;
internships or employment with any India-based, foreign diplomatic missions or foreign government organisations; and
visits to any areas or places notified as protected / restricted / prohibited space by the Central Government (or by any relevant authority).
Air costs inside India; and
Entry fees for museums, national parks, national monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, and historical sites in India.
inter-country adoption of India born children (subject to adherence and compliance with adoption procedure laid down under applicable laws and regulations);
appearing for the all-India entrance examinations, such as, JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) Advanced and Mains, NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), or other tests that makes an OCI card holder eligible for admission to any NRI seat or any supernumerary seat (to clarify, OCI cardholders are not eligible to get admission for seats reserved exclusively for Indian citizens);
purchase or sale of immovable properties, except agricultural land, farmhouses, or plantation properties; and
pursuing specific profession of a doctor, dentist, nurse and pharmacist, lawyer, architect, or a chartered accountant in India (subject to stipulations under applicable laws and regulations).
Rights and privileges not covered by any notification issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999; educational, economic, or
financial fields or aspects not categorically listed in the OCI Notification 2021;
rights and privileges not covered by any notification issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 (FEMA).

Pan/Adhaar Card Linking For NRI/OCI

Current residents of the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Meghalaya.
Non-Resident Indians as defined by the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Individuals aged equal to or above anytime during the previous year.
Non-Indian citizens.

Old Passport Not Required for Travel to India

Impact on employment opportunities, restrictions on dual citizenship, provisions for people registered as poi, registration and reporting requirements of oci card holders.

Definition of Resolution plan will now include provisions for corporate restructuring: The amendment act has inserted an explanation in the definition of resolution plan to clarify that a resolution plan that proposes the insolvency resolution of a corporate debtor may include the provisions for corporate restructuring, including by way of merger, amalgamation and demerger.
NCLT will have to record reasons for delay in discarding an application for initiation of CIRP: As per the Code, the NCLT must dispose of an application for initiation of CIRP within a period of 14 days from the receipt of application. However, there have been cases when the NCLT has taken more than 14 days to make a decision on the application. Therefore, to ensure speedy disposal and value maximization of the corporate debtor's assets, a proviso has been added which requires that NCLT to record its reasons in writing in case an application is not disposed within 14 days.
Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process to be concluded within 330 days: Earlier, the IBC demanded completion of CIRP within 180 days including a one-time extension of 90 days. However, many a times the Courts have allowed removal of certain periods, for instance, time consumed in litigation, from the compulsory completion period resulting in a lot of unresolved CIRPs well beyond the time duration allowed in the IBC. The Amendment act makes it compulsory for a CIRP to be completed within 330 days including any extension of time granted and time taken under legal proceedings. It further states that any pending CIRPs that have been going on for over 330 days should be completed within 90 days from the date of commencement of the Amendment Act.
Voting by authorised representative representing a class of financial creditors: To avoid any confusion and facilitate decision making in the Committee of Creditors, especially in cases where financial creditors are a large group, the Amendment Act provides that an authorized representative representing a class of financial creditors shall vote on behalf of all the financial creditors he/she represents in accordance with the decision approved by more than 50% of such financial creditors. This principle however would not be applicable in case of voting for withdrawal of CIRP.
Amount payable to functional creditors and disagreeing financial creditors: The Amendment Act provides that payment of debts of operational creditors shall be the higher of
the amount to be paid to these creditors at the time of liquidation of the corporate debtor u/s 53 or
the amount that would have been paid to such creditors, if the amount to be distributed under the resolution plan had been distributed in accordance of priority as mentioned u/s 53 (1)
NCLT has not approved or rejected a resolution plan
an appeal is pending at the Supreme Court or at the NCLAT (National Company Law Appellate Tribunal)
a lawsuit has been launched in a court challenging the decision of NCLT in relation to a resolution plan
Committee of Creditors (COC) to contemplate way of distribution submitted in the resolution plan: Besides the current need of approval of resolution plan after keeping in mind the practicality and acceptability of the resolution plan, the amendment act requires that the CoC consider the manner of distribution proposed in the resolution plan by taking into account the order of priority amongst creditors, as prescribed u/s 53 (1) relating to liquidation waterfall, including the priority and value of security interest of a secured creditor.
NCLT approved resolution plan will be binding on the Central Government, State Government or any local authority to whom corporate debtor owes a statutory debt: As per the Code, the approved resolution plan was only binding on the corporate debtor and its employees, creditors, members, guarantors and other stakeholders included in the resolution plan resulting in instances where the Government used to follow up for the balance dues after the said approval of resolution plan. The Amendment Act has now modified Section 31(1) to illuminate that any NCLT approved resolution plan will be binding on the Central Government, State Government and any local authority to whom a corporate debtor owes a debt in respect of payment of dues arising under any law.
Liquidation after setting up the Committee of Creditors (COC): The Amendment Act simplifies by way of an explanation, u/s 33(2) which covers liquidation, that the COC may decide to liquidate the corporate debtor any time after the setting-up of the COC until the confirmation of the resolution plan, including at any time before the development of the information memorandum. This change is pertinent as there have been cases where NCLTs have demanded that a liquidation order may be passed only after failure of the CIRP even though an early liquidation would have resulted in value maximization.

How can we help you, write to us with your enquiries, questions or request a meeting with a lawyer to discuss your potential case. one of our experts would review the form and revert back shortly., thank you for getting in touch.

We appreciate you contacting us at India Law Offices. We will review the details that you have submitted and one of our experts will connect with you shortly.

Enquiry Form

What is the legal readiness of your business , wish to discuss how we can add value to your business submit the below information to schedule a no obligation 30 minute discussion with our advisory team., related articles.

Here are some of the other related articles authored by our experts which might be of interest to you.

NRI Tax Residency Status in Pandemic Times

Generally, any individual living less than 182 days during taxable year is considered a non-resident Indian but the pandemic has created con..

United Kingdom - Market Entry & Business Opportunities

The regulatory and business environment in the United Kingdom supports good business, flexible labor market, encourage creativity, innovatio..

Medical Devices Industry in India – Business Opportunities and Advantages

Explore the dynamic landscape of India's booming Medical Devices industry. Discover key trends, market insights, supportive policies and opp..

ITAT Allows Foreign Taxes Paid as Deduction for International Bank in India

Under the DTAAs, taxpayers can avail reliefs such as claiming tax credits for taxes paid abroad. The rules for claiming FTCs are generally c..

Is LEI Code Mandatory in India?

Any issuer who has issued or proposed to issue listed non-convertible securities, securitized debt instruments, or security receipts must ob..

Russia - Market Entry and Business Opportunities

Seek opportunities in Russia’s dynamic market. Navigate regulatory landscapes and cultural diversity for successful business expansion..

The Bar Council of India does not permit advertisement or solicitation by advocates in any form or manner. By accessing this website, www.indialawoffices.com , you acknowledge and confirm that you are seeking information relating to India Law Offices of your own accord and that there has been no form of solicitation, advertisement or inducement by India Law Offices or its members. The content of this website is for information purpose only and should not be interpreted as soliciting or advertisement. No material/information provided on this website should be construed as legal advice. India Law Offices shall not be liable for consequences of any action taken by relying on the material/information provided on this website. The contents of this website are the intellectual property of India Law Offices.

Welcome to Embassy of India, Washington D C, USA

Skip to main content
Screen Reader Access

List of Officers
Departments
List of Holidays
Consulates in US
Right to Information
Embassy of India, Washington, DC Jurisdiction
Emergency Contact Numbers
A brief history of the Chancery building
Former Ambassadors of India to U.S.
Discontinuation of walk-in consular services
Apply Indian Visa
EMERGENCY VISA
Visa for Diplomatic/Official and Laissez-Passer Passport Holders
Passport Services
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card
Conversion of PIO card to OCI card
OCI Card Reissue Guidelines
Miscellaneous-Attestation Services
Renunciation of Indian Citizenship
Global Entry Program (GEP) For Indian Nationals
Emergency Travel Document (Emergency Certificate-EC)
Consular Assistance
VFS Helpline Numbers
Brief on India-US Relations
What's New/Press Releases
Journalist Visas/Documentary Filming in India/Film Visa
Photo Gallery
Arts/Culture
Indian Council For Cultural Relations (ICCR)
International Day of Yoga
Contact point
Education Wing
Guidelines for Indian Students in the United States
Registration of Indian Students in USA
Inviting applications for 'International Hindi Course' by the Central Institute of Hindi, India
Fulbright Scholarships
The Quad Fellowship
Guidelines for issue of No Objection Certificate / Visa for students proceeding to India on Fulbright Scholarship residing under the jurisdiction of Embassy of India, Washington D.C.
Financial Terms and Conditions for Scholarships handled by ICCR.
ICCR Scholarship
Equivalency certificate of academic qualification
Study in India
Advisory/Information for students desirous of pursuing medical studies abroad
Information on various aspects of US Legal system for incoming Indian students
Public Notices/ Alerts
How to address issues related to Marriages of Indian nationals to Overseas Indians
Bill on NRI Marriages
Procedure for sending/ forwarding Court Order/ Summons
Legal and other provisions in foreign countries on Indian women cheated/abandoned/abused by Overseas Indian Spouses
Officer-in-charge
FAQs on Marital disputes involving NRI/PIO spouses
प्रायः पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न : "भारतीय महिलाओं का विवाह

Home > Consular Services > OCI Card Reissue Guidelines

OCI CARD RE-ISSUE GUIDELINES

(1) WHEN TO APPLY FOR RE-ISSUE OF OCI CARD:

If the OCI cardholder acquired OCI card before attaining the age of 20 years and has obtained new passport after attaining the age of 20 years.

If the OCI card is lost or damaged.

If there is change in name for whatever reasons, including change in name after marriage.

If there is change in nationality, provided the new nationality is not that of Pakistan or Bangladesh.

If there are any errors in the existing OCI card. The OCI cardholder needs to provide suitable proof for carrying out necessary correction.

Note : The OCI miscellaneous application may be sent to VFS Global. Applicants may refer to https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services for the process. The fee for this service is as under:

US$25.00 for re-issue of OCI card in lieu of existing OCI card / US$100.00 for re-issue of OCI card in lieu of lost or damaged OCI card.

US$3.00 towards Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF).

US$15.90 payable as service charge to the Outsourcing Agency, and

Fee for any optional services like shipping labels.

(2) WHEN RE-ISSUE OF OCI CARD IS NOT NEEDED / ONLINE UPDATION IS SUFFICIENT:

OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a recent photo each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of new passport.

Foreign spouse of an Indian citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the new passport and a recent photo ONLINE each time a new passport is issued, along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse / passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

Similar exercise may be done in case of change in address or occupation. However, if an OCI cardholder joins foreign Military/Police service, he/she must renounce the OCI card to the nearest Indian Embassy/Consulate or to the jurisdictional FRRO, if the OCI cardholder is in India.

Note: Please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘OCI Miscellaneous Services (Passport Particulars Updation)’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider or the Embassy. The service will be gratis.

1OCI Card Reissue Guidelines

According to the recent relaxation in requirements for OCI Card Reissue:

(i) Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age, is dispensed with;

(ii) OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age. (Applicants may refer to https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services for the process). The fees for this is US$ 25 and US$ 3 for Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). You also need to pay US$ 15.90 to the Outsourcing Agency as service charge, and a fee for any Optional Services used like Shipping Labels;

(iii) OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a recent photo each time a new passport is issued up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport;

(iv) Foreign spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the new passport and a recent photo ONLINE each time a new passport is issued, along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

[In case of (iii) and (iv), please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘OCI Miscellaneous Services’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider or the Embassy and will be Gratis].

2. Further, on account of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in order to avoid inconvenience to OCI cardholders who are required to get their OCI cards reissued, it has been decided by Government of India to extend the timeline for re-issuance of OCI card from December 31, 2021 till December 31, 2022 .

3. The requirement of carrying old and new passports, along with the OCI card, has been done away with. Henceforth, an OCI cardholder traveling on the strength of existing OCI card bearing old passport number is not required to carry the old passport. However, carrying the new (current) passport is mandatory.

(i) Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner up to 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age, is dispensed with;

(In case of (iii) and (iv), please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘ OCI Miscellaneous Services’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider or the Embassy and will be Gratis ).

2. Further, timeline for re-issuance of OCI card in r/o OCI cardholders who may be required to get their OCI card re-issued, has been extended till December 31, 2021.

According to the recent relaxation in OCI Card Reissue Requirements:

(i) Mandatory requirement of re-issuance of an OCI card each time a new passport is issued to a foreigner upto 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age is dispensed with;

(ii) OCI cardholder is required to get the OCI card re-issued only once when a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age;

(iii) OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a latest photo each time a new passport is issued upto 20 years of age and once after completing 50 years of age. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport. The service will be provided on Gratis basis;

(iv) Foreign Spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of foreign origin of an OCI cardholder are required to upload a copy of the new passport and a latest photo ONLINE each time a new passport is issued along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport & OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

4. Appropriate modifications are being made in the OCI Miscellaneous Services portal to implement the above decisions. This is expected to be launched soon. OCI cardholders are therefore requested to wait for the updating of the portal before submitting any application for re-issue of OCI card.

Visa Services

Copyright policy --> Copyright policy
Terms & Conditions --> Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy --> Privacy Policy
Hyperlinking Policy --> Hyperlinking Policy
Accessibility Option --> Accessibility Option

Chancery Address: 2107 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008

Consular Wing Address: 2536 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008

Disclaimer: The Embassy is not responsible for the information or content provided in any of the external links given in its Website.

Tel No. for all enquiries:(202) 939-7000 Embassy closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public holidays. Official working hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM EST

Page last updated on: May 21, 2024

Indian-origin Foreign Citizens Must Ensure New Criteria of OCI Card Validity before They Visit India

Recently, the Consulate General of India worldwide released a press release circulating a new update for the Overseas Citizen of India card . The OCI card holders – foreign citizens of Indian origin – are required to comply with the new criteria regarding validity of their OCI cards before they book their travel to India. The new criteria of the OCI card validity came into effect this November 1.

latest OCI card news, OCI card validity criteria, Overseas Citizens of India

The OCI card holders within the age bracket of 20 years are required to get their OCI cards reissued each time when their passport is reissued , according to the Consulate General of India. Those above 20 years of age are exempted from ensuring this criterion of validity.

Reissue of the OCI card is not compulsory along with reissue of the passport for those within the age bracket of 21 to 50 years . But they have to carry their old passport which their OCI card was issued on, in order to prove the card validity. They do also have to carry the current passport.

Those above 50 years of age are required to get their OCI cards reissued only once when their passport is renewed after they turn 50. It is also recommended in the Consulate General of India’s press release that the Overseas Citizen of India card holders must always carry the expired passport along with the current/new passport and the OCI card while traveling to India.

Also Check: Revised Rules for Gaining New OCI Cards

The government of India has also decided to allow the OCI card holders’ investment in the tax-saving national pension scheme (NPS), adding value to the OCI card beyond its primary use as a lifelong visa to India for multiple entries.

Indian Eagle discount fares, cheap flight tickets India, direct flights to India

Special Air India Flights to and from India Cost Nearly Rs 2 Lakh per Traveler for One-way Journey

What are Hand-baggage Only Fares for British Airways and Delta Airlines Flights?

Future of Air Travel post COVID19: Empty Middle Seats or All Seats with Cover on Economy Flights

Trump’s temporary ban on immigration amid covid19 targets green cards, not h1b and other visas.

All about US DOT’s Final Rule for Airlines: Biden Empowers Travelers to Get Cash Refunds Quickly and Automatically

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory June 23, 2023

India - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

Do not travel to:

The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .

Country Summary : Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has occurred at tourist sites and in other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for India.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months beyond date of visa application to obtain a visa.

Two pages required.

Yes. Travelers must enter with a visa in their passport. The visa is valid for 10 years for U.S. citizens. Or they can use an e-tourist visa, which varies in validity. Note that the Indian authorities issue visas with dates in the DD/MM/YY format.

Travelers arriving from an infected area must have a yellow fever vaccination. Others are suggested.

You must declare currency over USD $5,000 at entry. Please check with the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. if you are planning to carry a large amount of currency or gold into India.

Check local law for rules on reporting large amounts of foreign currency and Indian rupees when leaving.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy new delhi.

Shantipath, Chanakyapuri New Delhi - 110021 India Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000 Fax: +(91) (11) 2419-0017 [email protected]

The U.S. Embassy, New Delhi serves U.S. citizens in the Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, the union territories of Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and the country of Bhutan.

U.S. Consulate General Mumbai C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex Bandra East, Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +(91) (22) 2672-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (22) 2672-4000 If you are calling from within India, but outside Mumbai, first dial 022. Fax: 91-(0)22-2672-4786 [email protected]

The Consulate General in Mumbai provides consular services for the states of Goa, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, and the union territory of Diu and Daman, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

U.S. Consulate General Kolkata 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani Kolkata - 700 071, West Bengal, India Telephone: +(91) (33) 3984-2400 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (33) 3984-2400 then dial "0" Fax: +(91) (33) 2282-2335 [email protected]

The United States Consulate General in Kolkata provides consular services for the states of Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Tripura, and Assam. .

U.S. Consulate General Chennai 220 Anna Salai at Gemini Circle Chennai, India 600006 Telephone: +(91) (44) 2857-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (0) 44-2857-4000. Ask for American Citizen Services. (Within India, but outside Chennai, first dial 044. From the United States, first dial 011-(91) (44)) Fax: +(91) (044) 2811-2020 [email protected]

The Consulate General in Chennai provides consular services for the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and the Union Territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Pondicherry, and the Lakshwadeep Islands.

U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad Survey No. 115/1, Financial District, Nanakramguda Hyderabad, Telangana, 500032 Telephone:+(91) (40) 6932 8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 4033-8300 and ask for American Citizen Services. (If calling from within India, but outside Hyderabad, first dial 040. From the United States, first dial 011-(91) (40)) Fax: 4033-8306 [email protected]

The Consulate General in Hyderabad provides services to U.S. citizens in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on India for information on U.S.-India relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All U.S. citizens need a valid passport as well as a valid Indian visa or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to enter and exit India for any purpose. India may deny entry to travelers without valid documents or the correct type of visa. Indian visa rules and instructions change often. They often do so with little warning. Travelers should check the  website of the Indian Embassy in Washington D.C. before any travel to India to review the most current information. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India cannot assist you if you arrive without proper documentation.

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India solely for tourist purposes for stays of less than 60 days may apply for an eVisa at least four days before their arrival. Please visit the  Indian government's website for electronic travel authorization for more information and to submit an application visit the Bureau of Immigration’s website.

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India as a tourist for longer than 60 days or for any other purpose must apply for a visa from an Indian embassy or consulate. The Government of India has appointed VFS Global to assist with visa services for individuals in the United States. Applicants may apply for Indian visas through the application link . Please exercise caution and check the correct website and as there are many fake webpages that will gather your personal information.

You can submit Diplomatic and Official visa applications directly to the Indian Embassy and Consulates. All U.S. government employees traveling on official orders, including military personnel, must get country clearance for travel to India. Once you have received your visa, check it carefully to ensure that the type of visa, validity dates, and number of entries is appropriate for your travel plans.

Keep copies of your U.S. passport data page, as well as the pages containing the Indian visa and Indian immigration stamps, with you at all times. Consider saving these documents to your mobile phone in case of emergency. If your passport is lost or stolen, copies will help you apply for a replacement passport and an exit permit from the Indian government. Replacing a lost visa, which is required to exit the country, may take several business days.  

U.S. citizens of Pakistani origin or descent are subject to administrative processing and should expect additional delays when applying for Indian visas.

Foreign citizens who visit India to  study, do research, work, or act as missionaries, as well as all travelers and residents planning to stay more than 180 days, are required to register their visit or residency within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO)  closest to where they will be staying, in addition  to having the appropriate visa  when they enter India. Similarly, if you are traveling to India to give birth, you must register your newborn’s birth within 14 days with the FRRO office. Failure to do so will result in fines, fees, and penalties. The FRRO has offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Lucknow, Calicut, Goa, Cochin, Trivandrum, and Amritsar. District Superintendents of Police serve as Foreigners Registration Officers (FROs) in all other places. We recommend all U.S. citizens review the entry requirements described on the  Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)  section on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you overstay your Indian visa or break Indian visa rules, you may need clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs to leave. In general, authorities will fine you and, in some cases, may even jail you for months. Visa violators seeking an exit permit must visit  the Foreigners Regional Registration Office portal  to submit the application and pay any levied fines. Processing an exit permit can take up to 90 days in these cases. Decisions will be made case by case.

Possession of a satellite phone is strictly prohibited in India and may lead to detention or arrest.

For the most current information on entry and exit requirements, please contact the  Embassy of India’s Consular wing  at 2536 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 939-9806 or the Indian Consulates in  Atlanta ,  Chicago ,  Houston ,  New York , or  San Francisco . Outside the United States, you should inquire at the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.

General information regarding Indian visa and immigration rules, including the addresses and telephone numbers for the FRRO offices, can be found at the  Indian Ministry of Home Affairs Bureau of Immigration website.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS:  There are no disclosure requirements or restrictions for HIV/AIDS patients who enter India on a tourist visa. Disclosure regarding HIV/AIDS is required of anyone seeking a resident permit in India. Foreign residents found to be suffering from HIV/AIDS will be deported. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of India  before you travel.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

U.S. citizens should always practice good personal security and situational awareness. Be aware of your surroundings. This includes local customs and etiquette. Keep a low profile. Monitor local news reports, vary routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, and when choosing hotels, restaurants, and entertainment and recreation venues.

India intermittently experiences terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Some U.S.-designated terrorist groups are active in India, including Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e Tayyiba. The U.S. government occasionally receives information regarding possible terrorist attacks that could take place in India, monitors such information to determine credibility, and advises U.S. citizens accordingly. Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive messages from the Embassy automatically.  

Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas. Attacks have taken place during the busy evening hours in markets and other crowded places but could occur at any time. Alerts are usually more frequent around major holidays. The Maoists (also known as “Naxalites”) are the most active insurgent group in India. The Naxalites typically attack Indian government officials, but have also derailed trains, targeted other government buildings such as police stations, and conducted other criminal activity. 

Demonstrations and general strikes, or “bandh,” often cause major inconvenience and unrest. These strikes can result in the stoppage of all transportation and tourist-related services, at times for 24 hours or more. U.S. citizens caught in such a strike may find they are unable to make flight and rail connections, as local transportation can be severely limited. Local media generally give an idea of the length and geographical location of the strike. You are urged to obey any imposed curfews and travel restrictions and avoid demonstrations and rallies as they have the potential for violence, especially immediately preceding and following political rallies, elections, and religious festivals (particularly when Hindu and Muslim festivals coincide). Tensions between castes and religious groups can also result in disruptions and violence.

There are active "anti-conversion" laws in some Indian states, and acts of conversion sometimes elicit violent reactions from Hindu extremists. Foreigners suspected of proselytizing Hindus have been attacked and killed in conservative, rural areas in India in years past. In some cases, demonstrators specifically block roads near popular tourist sites and disrupt train operations in order to gain the attention of Indian authorities; occasionally vehicles transporting tourists are attacked in these incidents. You should monitor local television, print and social media, and Mission India’s American Citizens Services  Facebook page

Swimming:  You should exercise caution if you intend to swim in open waters along the Indian coastline, particularly during the monsoon season. Every year, people in Goa, Mumbai, Puri (Odisha), off the Eastern Coast in the Bay of Bengal, and other areas drown due to strong undertows. It is important to heed warnings posted at beaches and to avoid swimming in the ocean during the monsoon season. Several years ago, there were reports of fatal crocodile attacks in the Andaman Islands. Trained lifeguards are very rare along beaches.

Wildlife Safaris:  Many tour operators and lodges advertise structured, safe excursions into parks and other wildlife viewing areas for close observation of flora and fauna. However, safety standards and training vary, and it is advisable to ascertain whether operators are trained and licensed. Even animals marketed as “tame” should be respected as wild and extremely dangerous. Keep a safe distance from animals at all times, remaining in vehicles or other protected enclosures when venturing into game parks or safaris.

Trekking:  Trekking expeditions should be limited to routes identified for this purpose by local authorities. Use only registered trekking agencies, porters, and guides, suspend trekking after dark, camp at designated camping places, and travel in groups rather than individually. Altitudes in popular trekking spots can exceed 25,000 feet (7,620 m); please ensure you are fit to trek at these altitudes and carry sufficient medical insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.

Train Travel:  India has the third largest rail network in the world, and train travel in India is generally safe. Nevertheless, accidents and on-board fires are sometimes caused by aging infrastructure, poorly maintained equipment, overcrowding, and operator errors. Train accidents and fires have resulted in death and serious injury of passengers.

Areas of Instability: Jammu & Kashmir:  The Department of State recommends that you do not travel to the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir because of the potential for terrorist incidents as well as violent public unrest. A number of terrorist groups operate in the territory targeting security forces, particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating Indian and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, and those stationed in primary tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Foreigners are particularly visible, vulnerable, and at risk. In the past, serious communal violence left the territory mostly paralyzed due to massive strikes and business shutdowns, and U.S. citizens have had to be evacuated by local police. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC (see the section on Restricted Areas, below) and may require a travel permit to enter this area.

India-Pakistan Border:  The Department of State recommends that you do not travel to areas within ten kilometers of the border between India and Pakistan. Both India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Atari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open, but you are advised to confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise, you should apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Both India and Pakistan claim an area of the Karakoram Mountain range that includes the Siachen glacier. Travel or mountain climbing in this area is highly dangerous. The disputed area includes the following peaks: Rimo Peak; Apsarasas I, II, and III; Tegam Kangri I, II and III; Suingri Kangri; Ghiant I and II; Indira Col; and Sia Kangri. Check with the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi for information on current conditions.

Northeastern States:  Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur sporadically in the northeast. While U.S. citizens have not been specifically targeted, it is possible that you could be affected as a bystander. If you travel to the northeast, you should avoid travel by train at night, travel outside major cities at night, and crowds. U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to certain areas in the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without permission from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata. Restricted Area Permits are required for foreigners to visit certain Northeastern states (see the section on Restricted Areas, below.) Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata for information on current conditions.

East Central and Southern India:  Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in East Central India, primarily in rural areas. The Naxalites have a long history of conflict with state and national authorities, including frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials, and are responsible for more attacks in the country than any other organization through an ongoing campaign of violence and intimidation. Naxalites have not specifically targeted U.S. citizens but have attacked symbolic targets that have included Western companies and rail lines. While Naxalite violence does not normally occur in places frequented by foreigners, there is a risk that visitors could become victims of violence.

Naxalites are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive authorization from the U.S. Consulate responsible for the area to be visited, unless they are only visiting capital cities.

Restricted/Protected areas:  Certain states or portions of states require Restricted Area Permits. These include:

The state of Arunachal Pradesh
Portions of the state of Sikkim
Portions of the state of Himachal Pradesh near the Chinese border
Portions of the state of Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) near the Chinese border
Portions of the state of Rajasthan near the Pakistani border
Portions of the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir near the Line of Control with Pakistan and certain portions of the union territory of Ladakh
The union territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
The union territory of the Laccadives Islands (Lakshadweep)
Portions of the state of Manipur
Portions of the state of Mizoram
Portions of the state of Nagaland

More information about travel to/in restricted/protected areas can be found from India’s  Bureau of Immigration .

Restricted Area Permits are available outside India at Indian embassies and consulates abroad, or in India from the Ministry of Home Affairs (Foreigners Division) at Jaisalmer House, 26 Man Singh Road, New Delhi. The states of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim maintain official guesthouses in New Delhi, which can also issue Restricted Area Permits for their respective states for certain travelers. While visiting Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) in Tamil Nadu, you should be aware that the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Center in Kalpakkam is located just south of the site and is not clearly marked as a restricted and dangerous area.

For the latest security information, travelers should enroll in  STEP  to receive updated security information and regularly monitor travel information available from the  U.S. Embassy in New Delhi  as well as the U.S. Consulates General in  Mumbai  ,  Chennai ,  Hyderabad , and  Kolkata .

Crime:  Violent crime, especially directed against foreigners, has traditionally been uncommon. Petty crime, especially theft of personal property (including U.S. passports), is common, particularly on trains or buses, at airports, and in major tourist areas. Pickpockets can be very skilled and travelers have reported having their bags snatched, purse-straps cut, or the bottom of their purses slit without their knowledge. If traveling by train, lock your sleeping compartments and take your valuables with you when leaving your berth. If you travel by air, be careful with your bags in the arrival and departure areas outside airports. Be cautious about displaying cash or expensive items to reduce the chance of being a target for robbery or other crime, and be aware of your surroundings when you use ATMs. Scammers have used ATM card scams to clone credit card details and withdraw money.

Individuals have reported cases of sexual assault, including rape, against U.S. citizens traveling throughout India.

The U.S. government cautions citizens, especially women, not to travel alone in India. Please observe stringent security precautions. When traveling without known and trustworthy companions, use public transport specifically designated for “women-only” travelers, which is a free service offered by the Indian government in many metropolitan cities including Delhi and Hyderabad. Please restrict evening entertainment to well-known venues and avoid isolated areas when traveling alone at any time of the day. Keep your hotel room number confidential and make sure hotel room doors have chains, deadlocks, and peep holes. Travel with groups of friends rather than alone. In addition, only hire reliable cars and drivers and avoid traveling alone in hired taxis, especially at night. Use taxis from hotels and pre-paid taxis at airports rather than hailing them on the street. If you encounter threatening situations, call “100” for police assistance (“112” from mobile phones). If you use app-based services like “Uber” or “Ola” share your ride information with a friend.

Travelers in India are advised to respect local dress and customs. Indian women typically wear conservative everyday dress. This is the norm throughout the country, and even more so in rural areas. They wear clothing that covers their legs and shoulders. Exceptions are vacation resorts catering to foreign clientele and some neighborhoods of major cities like New Delhi and Mumbai. Western women, especially those of African descent, continue to report incidents of verbal and physical harassment by individuals and groups of men. Known locally as “Eve-teasing,” these incidents of sexual harassment can be quite frightening and quickly cross the line from verbal to physical. Sexual harassment can occur anytime or anywhere, but most frequently has happened in crowded areas such as in marketplaces, train stations, buses, and public streets. The harassment can range from sexually suggestive or lewd comments to catcalls to outright groping.

The Government of India has focused more on addressing gender-based violence. One outcome has been more reports of sexual assault nationwide. Indian authorities report rape is one of India's fastest growing crimes.

If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you should call the police immediately and follow up with a call to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We can sometimes connect you with an Indian non-governmental organization that may be able to provide assistance.

Please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice page for violence against women.

Scams are common at major airports, train stations, popular restaurants, and tourist sites. Scam artists prey on visitors by creating distractions. Be careful of taxi drivers and others. This includes train porters. They solicit travelers with "come-on" offers of cheap transportation and/or hotels. Travelers who accept such offers are often the victims of scams. These include offers to help with "necessary" transfers to the domestic airport, overpriced hotel rooms, unwanted "tours," unwelcome "purchases," long cab rides, and even threats when the tourists decline to pay. Tourists have reported being lured and extorted for money in the face of threats of violence against the traveler and his/her family members. Be careful when hiring transportation and guides. Use only well-known travel agents to book trips.

Some vendors sell carpets, jewelry, and gemstones. These items may be expensive and not of the promised quality. Deal only with reputable businesses and do not hand over your credit cards or money unless you are certain that goods being shipped are the goods you purchased. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it is best avoided. Most Indian states have official tourism bureaus set up to handle complaints. Do not agree to transport any goods on behalf of strangers in exchange for money.

India-based criminals use the internet to extort money from victims abroad. In a common scam, the victim develops a close romantic relationship with an alleged U.S. citizen they meet online. When the “friend” travels to India, a series of accidents occur and the victim begins to receive requests for financial assistance, sometimes through an intermediary. In fact, the U.S. citizen “friend” does not exist; they are only online personas used by criminal networks. Victims have been defrauded of thousands of dollars in these schemes. Do not send money to anyone you have not met in person and carefully read the Department of State’s advice on   international financial scams . 

In another common scam, family members in the United States, especially older people, are asked for money. The scammers claim to be grandchildren or relatives who have been arrested or are without money to return home. Do not send money without contacting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General to confirm the other party’s situation. You can also call our Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 888-407-4747 (from overseas: 202-501-4444). Review our information on  emergency assistance to Americans abroad.

U.S. citizens have had problems with business partners, usually involving property investments. You may wish to seek professional legal advice in reviewing any contracts for business or services offered in India. The U.S. Embassy and consulates cannot give legal advice. They also cannot help U.S. citizens with Indian courts on civil or criminal matters. A list of local attorneys is available on the Embassy and Consulates General  websites .

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for more information on scams.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the local police, then inform the U.S. Embassy or local Consulate.

Report crimes to the local police by calling “100” or “112” from a mobile phone.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

help you find appropriate medical care
assist you in reporting a crime to the police
contact relatives or friends with your written consent
explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
provide a list of local attorneys
provide information on victims’ compensation programs in the U.S.
provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
replace a stolen or lost passport

You should ask for a copy of the police report, known as a “First Information Report” (FIR), from local police when you report an incident. Local authorities generally can't act without a police report. 

If your passport is stolen, report the theft or loss right away. Report it to the police in the place where your passport was stolen. You need an FIR to get an exit visa to leave India. The Indian government requires it if the lost passport had your Indian visa. Although the Embassy or Consulate General is able to replace a stolen or lost passport, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) are responsible for approving an exit permit. This process usually takes three to four working days but can take longer.

In cases of sexual assault or rape, the Embassy or Consulates General can provide a list of local doctors and hospitals, if needed, to discuss treatment and prevention options for diseases and pregnancy. You should be aware that for evidence of an assault to be submitted in a court case, Indian authorities require that the medical exam be completed at a government hospital. Therefore, if a victim goes to a private hospital for treatment, the hospital will refer them to a government hospital for this aspect of the medical process. 

India has many resources for victims of rape and sexual assault. The specific toll-free Women’s Helpline Service number in Delhi is 1091; in Mumbai it is 103; in Kolkata, 1090; in Chennai, 1091 or 2345-2365; and in Hyderabad 1098.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in India is “100.” An additional emergency number, “112,” can be accessed from mobile phones.

Please see our  information for victims of crime , including possible victim compensation programs in the United States. 

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. You may face arrest, imprisonment, and/or deportation if you violate local laws, even unknowingly.

Furthermore, some activities are crimes under U.S. law and can be prosecuted in the U.S. regardless of whether they are allowed under local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice website.

If police or prison officials arrest or detain you, immediately ask them to notify the U.S. Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

Alcohol: Each of India’s states has its own rules for buying and drinking alcohol. Legal drinking ages range from 18 to 25 and can vary by beverage type. Some states permit alcohol use for medicinal purposes only while others require you to hold a permit to buy, transport, or consume alcohol. Penalties for violation can be harsh.

Several U.S. citizens at Indian airports have been arrested for attempting to smuggle illegal drugs from India. Many claim that they did not realize they were carrying narcotics. Never transport or mail packages that do not belong to you and maintain direct control of your luggage at all times.

Beef and Cow Hide:  Several states in India impose various types of prohibition on beef. In some rural areas, cow protection vigilantes have attacked people they suspected of selling or consuming beef, or possessing items made with cow hide.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

Dual Nationality:  India does not permit its citizens to hold dual nationality. In 2006, India launched the "Overseas Citizens of India" (OCI) program, which does not grant Indian citizenship but is similar to a U.S. "green card" in that you can travel to and from India indefinitely, work in India, study in India, and own property in India (except for certain agricultural and plantation properties). If you are a U.S. citizen and obtain an OCI card you will not become a citizen of India; you will remain a citizen of the United States. An OCI card holder does not receive an Indian passport, cannot vote in Indian elections, and is not eligible for Indian government employment.

U.S. citizens of Indian descent can apply for OCI cards at the Indian Embassy in Washington or at the Indian Consulates in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Houston. Inside India, U.S. citizens can apply at the nearest FRRO office (please see “Entry/Exit Requirements” section above for more information on the FRRO). U.S. citizens must use a U.S. passport when traveling in and out of the United States.

Faith-based travelers and those participating in religious activities should refer to the Department of State's Report on International Religious Freedom. Indian law mandates that individuals engaging in religious proselytizing obtain a "missionary" visa. Immigration authorities have determined that engaging in certain activities, such as speaking at religious meetings open to the general public, could violate immigration law if the traveler does not possess a missionary visa. Foreigners with tourist visas who engage in missionary activity are subject to deportation and possible criminal prosecution. The states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh have legislation that regulates or places restrictions on conversion from one religion to another. If you plan to engage in missionary activity, you may want to seek legal advice to find out if Indian law permits the activities you plan to pursue.

Tourists should also mind restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment. These include Hindu temples, mosques, churches, and other sacred places to the local population. Many individual temples and mosques do not permit non-members to enter all or parts of the facilities, and may require the removal of shoes, the covering of the head, or have other specific requirements for appropriate attire.

Customs rules are strict. Before traveling to or from India, inspect all bags and clothes well. Make sure they do not contain banned items. Airport security officials have arrested or detained several U.S. citizens after discovering loose ammunition (including spent individual bullets and casings) or weapons in their luggage. If authorities find loose ammunition or bullets (including empty bullet shells used in souvenirs) on your person or in your bags, they will charge you with violating the Indian Arms Act, and may incarcerate or deport you from India.

Additionally, Indian authorities have arrested and prosecuted U.S. citizens for possessing satellite phones, which is strictly prohibited in India.

Indian customs authorities enforce strict regulations. They cover temporary importation into or export from India of items like antiquities, electronics, currency, ivory, gold objects, and other banned materials. You need permission from the Government of India to bring in restricted items, even if you are only transiting through India. If you do not comply with these regulations, you risk arrest or fine or both and confiscation of these items. If Indian law enforcement charges you with any legal violations, make sure to have an attorney review any document before signing it. The Government of India requires the registration of antique items with the local police along with a photograph of the item. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of India in Washington or one of India's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. More information is available from the Indian Central Board of Excise and Customs.

Indian customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the  U.S. Council for International Business , 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480, or  email USCIB  for details. Please see our section on  Customs Information  for more information.

Natural Disaster Threats:  Parts of northern India are highly susceptible to earthquakes. Regions of highest risk, ranked 5 on a scale of 1 to 5, include areas around Srinagar, Himachal Pradesh, Rishikesh and Dehradun, the northern parts of Punjab, northwest Gujarat, northern Bihar, and the entire northeast. Ranked 4 (high damage risk) is an area that sweeps along the north through Jammu and Kashmir, Eastern Punjab, Haryana, Northern Uttar Pradesh, central Bihar and the northern parts of West Bengal. New Delhi is located in zone 4. Severe flooding is common in hilly and mountainous areas throughout India. Flooding in 2013 in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and other areas left thousands of people presumed dead and temporarily stranded dozens of U.S. citizens.

Typhoons/cyclones and subsequent flooding are common along the Indian coasts, in particular the Eastern coastal states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal, and have at times resulted in massive loss of life. Tourists and residents in areas prone to these events should remain vigilant during severe weather, monitor local media for latest developments, and heed all municipal warnings. Residents in these areas should have contingency plans for loss of power and unavailability of goods and services, including supplies for multiple days after a severe weather event.

Accessibility:  Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation in India very different than what you find in the United States. Despite legislation that all public buildings and transport be accessible for disabled people, accessibility remains limited. One notable exception is the Delhi metro system, designed to be accessible to those with physical disabilities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: The Supreme Court of India decriminalized same-sex relationships in 2018. Since then, state and union governments have been directed to develop reforms that protect the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) persons, including efforts to provide gender neutral bathrooms at schools and colleges and separate housing for gender-nonconforming and transgender persons in prison.

Although Indian law prohibits discrimination by state and nonstate actors based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics, the government is inconsistent in implementing and enforcing these laws, and reports of widespread discrimination, harassment, threats, and violence against LGBTQI+ persons, particularly in rural areas or by local police, persist. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our  Human Rights  report for further details.

For emergency services in India, dial 112 from a cell phone; from a land line, dial 100 for police, 102 for ambulance (108 in parts of South India), and 101 for fire.

Ambulances are not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, and traffic does not yield to emergency vehicles. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. Most hospitals require advance payment or confirmation of insurance prior to treatment. Payment practices vary, and credit cards are not routinely accepted for medical care.

Zika, dengue, malaria, measles, and other diseases are present in India. See the Center for Disease Control’s website for more information.

The quality of medical care in India varies considerably. Medical care in the major population centers approaches and occasionally meets Western standards, but adequate medical care is usually very limited or unavailable in rural areas.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. 

Make sure your health insurance covers care overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of India to ensure the medication is legal in India. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with limited controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. When buying medication, consult with a medical professional and purchase from reputable establishments. Please visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention website on counterfeit drugs for more information.

Water Quality: Water is a common vehicle for the transmission of disease. Impure drinking water can transmit serious diseases such as typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery. You can make water safe for drinking by filtering/boiling, distilling, or using chemicals. Bottled water is generally safe for consumption. It is best to stick to the major brands. The water bottle seal or cap should be intact.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you are arriving in India from Sub-Saharan Africa or other areas with yellow-fever risk, Indian health regulations require that you present evidence of vaccination against yellow fever. If you lack such proof, authorities may immediately deport you or detain you in the yellow-fever quarantine center for six days. If you travel through any part of sub-Saharan Africa, even for one day, health authorities advise you to carry proof of yellow fever immunization.

Dogs and bats create a high risk of rabies transmission in most of India. Health authorities recommend vaccination for all prolonged stays, especially for young children and travelers in rural areas. It is also recommended for shorter stays that involve occupational exposure, locations more than 24 hours from a reliable source of human rabies immune globulin and rabies vaccine for post-exposure treatment, adventure travelers, hikers, cave explorers, and backpackers. Monkeys also can transmit rabies and herpes B, among other diseases, to human victims. Avoid feeding monkeys. If bitten, you should immediately soak and scrub the bite for at least 15 minutes and seek urgent medical attention.

Influenza transmission occurs from November to April in areas north of the Tropic of Cancer (north India) and from June through November (the rainy season) in areas south of the Tropic of Cancer (south India), with a smaller peak from February through April; off-season transmission can also occur. All travelers are at risk. During the flu season, health authorities recommend that all travelers get the influenza vaccine.

Outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1 virus) occur intermittently in eastern India, including West Bengal, Manipur, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Assam.

Malaria risk depends on time of year and area the traveler is visiting. Please consult the  CDC website for India for more information. Dengue fever presents significant risk in urban and rural areas. Health officials report the highest number of cases from July to December, with cases peaking from September to October. The CDC recommends taking daytime insect precautions, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and mosquito repellent.

Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in India. Please visit the CDC website or more information.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in India, and you should consult your doctor prior to travel and consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. The air quality in India varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. Anyone who travels where pollution levels are high is at risk. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

Infants, children, and teens 
People over 65 years of age 
People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema 
People with heart disease or diabetes 
People who work or are active outdoors

Current air quality data can be found on the  Department of State’s air quality page . The data on this site are updated hourly. 

Rh-negative blood may be difficult to obtain as it is not common in Asia. 

Medical Tourism:  Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. Companies offering vacation packages bundled with medical consultations and financing options provide direct-to-consumer advertising over the internet. Such medical packages often claim to provide high quality care, but the quality of health care in India is highly variable. People seeking health care in India should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.

Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and  refer to the information from the CDC . Persons traveling to India for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. Please check with the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for more information. 

Despite reports of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospitals, in general travelers should not delay or avoid treatment for urgent or emergent medical situations. However, health tourists and other travelers who may be contemplating elective procedures in this country should carefully research individual hospital infection control practices. 

Surrogacy:  Commercial surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in India, subject to complex local regulation. For additional information,  visit the Government of India’s official information on foreigner surrogacy .

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India maintain lists of local doctors and hospitals, all of which are published on their respective websites under "U.S. Citizen Services." We cannot endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Travel by road in India is dangerous. India leads the world in traffic-related deaths and a number of U.S. citizens have suffered fatal traffic accidents in recent years. You should exercise extreme caution when crossing streets, even in marked pedestrian areas, and try to use only cars that have seatbelts. Seatbelts are not common in three-wheel taxis (autos) and in back seats of taxis and rideshare vehicles. Helmets should always be worn on motorcycles and bicycles. Travel at night is particularly hazardous. 

On Indian roads, the safest driving policy is always to assume that other drivers will not respond to a traffic situation in the same way you would in the United States, including the use of driving lanes. Buses and trucks often run red lights and merge directly into traffic at yield points and traffic circles. Cars, autos, bicycles, and pedestrians behave only slightly more cautiously. Use your horn or flash your headlights frequently to announce your presence. It is both customary and wise. 

Inside and outside major cities, roads are often poorly maintained and congested. Even main roads frequently have only two lanes, with poor visibility and inadequate warning markers. On the few divided highways one can expect to meet local transportation traveling in the wrong direction, often without lights. Heavy traffic is the norm and includes (but is not limited to) overloaded trucks and buses, scooters, pedestrians, bullock and camel carts, horse or elephant riders en route to weddings, bicycles, and free-roaming livestock. 

Public Transportation:  Buses, patronized by hundreds of millions of Indians, are convenient in that they serve almost every city of any size. However, in some areas, they are often driven fast, recklessly, and without consideration for the rules of the road. Accidents are common. 

Traffic Laws:  Traffic in India moves on the left. It is important to be alert while crossing streets and intersections, especially after dark as traffic is coming in the "wrong" direction. Travelers should remember to use seatbelts in both rear and front seats where available, and to ask their drivers to maintain a safe speed. 

In order to drive in India, you must have either a valid Indian driver’s license or a valid international driver’s license. Because of difficult road and traffic conditions, you may wish to consider hiring a local driver. Your U.S. driver’s license will not work. 

If a driver hits a pedestrian or a cow, the vehicle and its occupants are at risk of being attacked by passersby. Such attacks pose significant risk of injury or death to the vehicle's occupants or risk of incineration of the vehicle. It could be unsafe to remain at the scene of an accident of this nature, and drivers may instead wish to seek out the nearest police station.    Protestors often use road blockage as a means of publicizing their grievances, causing severe inconvenience to travelers. Visitors should monitor local news reports for any reports of road disturbances. 

Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information. 

Emergency Numbers:  The following emergency numbers work in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata: 

National Emergency 112 
Police 100 
Fire Brigade 101 
Ambulance 102

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of India’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of India’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s Safety Management page . Travelers are urged to use caution while booking private helicopters for travel, especially in the northeast.

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

India was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in India . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Search in titles only Search in India Passport / Visa / PIO Card / OCI / Dual Citizenship only Search
Advanced Search
If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ by clicking the link above. You may have to register before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.

Announcement

Traveling without updating oci with new passport information for a minor.

Latest Activity
Time All Time Today Last Week Last Month
Show All Discussions only Photos only Videos only Links only Polls only Events only

Join Date: Feb 2013

Join Date: Jan 2016

Join Date: Jan 2023

Join Date: Dec 2011

Join Date: Jan 2018

Join Date: Jun 2023

Join Date: May 2023

Join Date: Dec 2023

Join Date: Jan 2024

Join Date: Mar 2024

Visitor Visa
Visitors Insurance
Read Experiences
Discussions Forums
Insurance Resources
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

immihelp ® .com is private non-lawyer web site. Not affiliated with any government agency.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK Government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in India set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the High Commission of India in London or another Indian consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering India.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India.

Your passport must also: - have 2 blank pages for your visa

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

Apply for the right type of visa for the purpose of your travel.

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder.

India has a number of visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel.

Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation. This may also include not being allowed to enter India in the future.

For latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office), the Bureau of Indian Immigration website and Indian Ministry of External Affairs website .

Applying for a visa or e-visa

Find out how to apply for a visa from the Indian Bureau of Immigration Depending on your requirements you may be able to apply for:

regular (paper) visa
e-visa (make sure to check the website’s ‘FAQs’ for restrictions on airports and seaports of entry)

Check your eligibility and any restrictions before you apply and allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.

More information is available from the website of High Commission of India in London .

Applicants of Pakistani origin

If you are of Pakistani origin, a British-Pakistan dual national, or holding a National Identity Card for overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), the visa processing time will be substantially longer than other visa applications. More information is available from the High Commission of India in London .

If you are a British-Pakistan dual national, you must apply for an Indian visa on your Pakistani passport. If you have renounced your Pakistani nationality or cancelled your Pakistani passport, you will need to submit documentary proof of this.

Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders

If you hold a valid Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card, you can use this, along with your valid British passport to visit India. You do not need a visa. If you have a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card, you will need to convert it to an OCI card. More information is available from the High Commission of India in London and the Indian Bureau of Immigration .

Arrival, registration, and extensions

If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days and do not hold an OCI card, register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) . You could be denied permission to leave if you do not do this. Check if you are required to register your arrival .

Overstaying in India on a visa is an offence. Make sure you leave the country before your visa expires or get an official extension if needed. More information is available on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you’re hospitalised

If you or someone you’re travelling with has a short-term Tourist Visa and is hospitalised, you may be able to extend or ‘convert’ to a Medical Visa .

Exit requirements

You will pass through immigration as you depart India. Officials will check when you entered the country. If you do not have an entry stamp, for example if you have a newly issued passport, you will need to apply for special exit visa before you travel. This must be done online and can take between five and fifteen working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights. For further information see the e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office).

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

yellow fever

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also provides vaccination guidance and data .

Accommodation

By law, hotels, hostels and other accommodation providers must register the stay of foreign guests with the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) using a “C Form”. Please ask your accommodation provider to ensure they have done so.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of India . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Satellite phones and listening devices

It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India without a licence. British nationals have been arrested for bringing them into the country without prior permission. You can contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication to request a licence .

You may also need prior permission from the Indian authorities to bring equipment like listening or recording devices, radio transmitters, powerful cameras, or binoculars into India. You can ask the High Commission of India in London for advice.

Taking money into India

There are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India.

Visitors, including tourists, must not bring any amount of Indian currency into the country. If you’re resident in India, you can bring up to 25,000 rupees into the country.

If you’re visiting India, you can bring cash, travellers’ cheques (in pounds sterling or another foreign currency) or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees once in India.

You must declare any amount above 5,000 US dollars in notes, or 10,000 US dollars in notes and travellers’ cheques combined.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

Grant citizenship to daughter of OCI card-holders: HC

Visual Stories

The Delhi High Court recently asked the Centre to use its enabling powers in granting citizenship to a 17-year-old girl born to and raised in India by parents who were US citizens at the time of her birth but later became Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders.

A single judge bench of Justice Prathiba Singh in its May 15 order observed, “The Petitioner’s circumstances are that despite having been born in India to two OCI Card holders , educated in India and lived in India with her family, she is unable to obtain a passport. The circumstances under which the Petitioner is situated are clearly special circumstances as contemplated under Section 5(4) of the (Citizenship) Act.”

Among the various special circumstances, the HC said that the girl’s mother had passed away, and she presently lives with her father in Bengaluru. The HC also noted that the girl had been wholly educated in Bengaluru, did not possess travel documents of any country nor did she fall under the definition of illegal migrant, and is entitled to be considered as a person of Indian origin.

It also noted that the “non-issuance of a travel document to her would render her Stateless” and that she has family ties in India.

“In the opinion of this Court, the present case is one where there are special circumstances for the Central Government to use the enabling powers, as contemplated under Section 5(4) (Citizenship Act) for favorably considering grant of citizenship to the Petitioner,” the Delhi HC said.

The HC, thereafter, permitted the girl to apply for registration as a citizen under Section 5 of the Citizenship Act. It said that her “application shall be processed and the decision on the citizenship shall be rendered, considering the legal position set out above, within 30 days” after formalities are completed.

“Upon obtaining the said citizenship by registration, the Petitioner shall file a fresh application under the Passports Act for issuance of a passport, which shall be granted expeditiously – i.e., within 15 days from date of application,” the HC said.

The Court observed that its order has been passed in the unique and special circumstances and facts of the case, considering that the girl will turn 18 years old in November 2024 and has “clearly expressed her intent and choice to be an Indian citizen”.

The HC said the girl’s “position is unique” and added that her case is not expressly covered by any specific provision of the Citizenship Act or the Passports Act.

“A passport can only be issued to a person who is a citizen of India and satisfies the eligibility conditions as prescribed. The rejection of the Petitioner’s passport is under Section 6(2)(a) read with Section 5(2)(c) of the Passport Act, 1967. Section 6(2)(a) provides that if the applicant is not a citizen of India, a passport cannot be issued. Accordingly, the question that arises is whether the Petitioner can be treated as a citizen for issuance of a passport. If the Petitioner is not treated as an illegal migrant, she would have been clearly entitled to citizenship. In the opinion of this Court, the Petitioner is not an illegal migrant. The Petitioner also qualifies as a person of Indian origin. The Petitioner would thus, be entitled to citizenship by registration under Section 5(1)(a) of the Act under the category of ‘person of Indian origin’,” the HC said.

It said that the girl cannot be rendered stateless and left to struggle for basic human rights such as freedom of movement, freedom to have an identity, and freedom to be educated as per their will even in a foreign country.

The high court said that the non-grant of citizenship and the consequent non-grant of a passport can have a “deleterious impact” on the girl and her family. It added that there is no reason why the petitioner ought to be made to struggle due to an unusually uncomfortable position she has been placed in – “may be due to decisions made by her parents/family”.

The girl had approached the Court for issuance of a passport after the regional passport office in Bengaluru refused the same observing that both her parents had renounced their Indian citizenship.

delhi high court
Overseas Citizen of India

Manoj Bajpayee with wife Shabana Raza and daughter Ava Nayla. (Photo: Instagram/bajpayee.manoj)

Manoj Bajpayee's wife was initially concerned about him doing The Family Man, as she didn't understand the impact of streaming. However, he explained that it was a big thing in the US and would peak in India.

Delhi News Live Updates: 'FIR is absolutely correct. Ready to undergo a polygraph, narco test': Swati Maliwal 35 mins ago
Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Live Updates: If Modi can do everything, then whom should you make PM?, Shah asks at public rally in UP 45 mins ago
Mumbai News Live Updates: Four killed in blast in Dombivli chemical factory, many feared trapped 1 hour ago
AP EAPCET 2024 Live Updates: Agriculture, Pharmacy answer keys released; Engineering key tomorrow 4 hours ago

Best of Express

Buzzing Now

May 23: Latest News

01 Blinken urges Egypt to ensure aid is flowing into Gaza
02 Malaysia Masters: PV Sindhu makes winning return after break; Ashmita Chaliha and Kiran George also progress in singles
03 Rape of girl: Youth gets 20-yr jail
04 UCLA removes police chief in the wake of protest melee
05 From a fracture at 9 that restricted his left-arm movement, Sachin Khilari’s journey to shot put gold at World Para Athletics
Elections 2024
Political Pulse
Entertainment
Movie Review
Newsletters
Web Stories

Consulate General of India, San Francisco, California

Consul General
Holidays - 2024
Working Hours
Consulate Officials
Location of Consulate
Right to Information
Consulates In US
Gadar Memorial Hall
General Passport Information
TATKAAL Passport Services
Public Advisory on Urgent Re-issuance of Passport
FAQ's on Passport
Attestation of Will
Attestation of Documents
Affidavit for Childs Passport to be issued in India
Attestation of Death Documents
Birth Certificate or non Availability of Birth Certificate
International Driving Permit (IDP) Renewal
Life Certificate
NORI (No Obligation to Return to India)
PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) - Indian Nationals
PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) - Foreign Nationals
Power of Attorney / Affidavits relating to Property or Financial Matters
NRI Certificate
Registration of Birth
Statement of Need Certificates for Medical Doctors
Solemnization/Registration of Marriage
Global Entry Program (GEP) For Indian Nationals
Emergency Travel Document (Emergency Certificate - EC)
Visa for Diplomatic/official/ Laissez-Passers Passport Holder
Visa Guidelines for USA Passport Holder
Tourist Visa
Emergency Entry Visa Guidelines
Business Visa
Type of Visas
Employment Visa
Important Advisory on Fake Indian E-Visa Websites
Transit Visa
FAQ's on Visa
Medical Visa
Student Visa (Study/Research /Internship)
Conference Visa
Mountaineering Visa
Film Visa: Visa for shooting Feature Films
Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders/ Foreign Passport holders of Pakistani Origin
General Information on OCI Card
How to apply for OCI
Document Requirements
Renewal/Re-issue of OCI Card
Instructions to Convert PIO card to OCI Card
Notice regarding Dual Citizenship
Renunciation of OCI
OCI Reissuance Clarification
FAQ's on OCI
General Information
How to Apply for Renunciation
FAQ's on Renunciation
Do's and Dont's for Indian Emigrants
Guidelines for adoption of Indian children
Helpful Information
Photograph Specifications
Registration of Indian Nationals
Invest India
Commercial Representative
IndiaConnect Initiative: India Corporate Internship
Indian Customs
Permanent Account Number (PAN)
Exhibitions and Trade Fairs
Global Tenders
INDIVIDUAL TENDERS
Attestation of Death Document/Carrying of Ashes
Fulbright Scholarships
Know India Program
Initiatives for Overseas Indians
Domestic Violence | Deserted Indian Women
Herguan University
Tracing the Roots
Foreign Marriage Act
Events/Photo Gallery
Press Releases
Emergency Contact Number
VFS Helpline Numbers
Skip to main content
Screen Reader Access

Consulate General of India San Francisco, California, Serving the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah and Territory of Guam

Home › Consular Services › OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) cards › OCI Reissuance Clarification

OCI Card Reissue Guidelines

According to the recent relaxation in requirements for OCI Card Reissue:

(i) OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a recent photo (not more than 30 days old) each time a new passport is issued. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new passport.

[Please visit https://ociservices.gov.in/welcome and select the option ‘ OCI Miscellaneous Services’ for uploading copy of the passport, recent photograph and other documents. This does not involve any submission of documents through the Outsourcing Service Provider/Consulate and will be free of cost] .

(ii) However, the only exception to the above is mandatory re-issue of the OCI card when an applicant gets a new passport issued after completing 20 years of age. Please refer to https://services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-oci-services for the process. The fees for this is US$ 25 and US$ 3 for Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). Applicant also need to pay US$ 15.90 to the Outsourcing Agency as service charge, and a fee for any optional services like shipping labels etc.

(iii) Foreign spouse of an Indian Citizen or spouse of an OCI cardholder is required to upload a copy of the new passport and a recent photo ONLINE each time a new passport is issued, along with a declaration on subsisting of marriage, copy of the Indian passport of the Indian spouse/passport and OCI card of the OCI cardholder spouse.

Please note: an OCI card holder can travel with the OCI card and the current valid passport (minimum validity of 6 months or more)

List of Required Documents and Fee Details for various Miscellaneous Consular Services
Passport Related Services
Miscellaneous/Attestation Services
Entry-Visa-Services (Entry-Visa-Services)
Visa Services
OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) cards
Renunciation of Indian Citizenship & Surrender of Indian Passport

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Copyright Policy
Hyperlinking Policy
Accessibility Statement

Visitors: 18744174 | Page last updated on: 24-05-2024

Grant citizenship to daughter of OCI card-holders: HC

N EW DELHI: Delhi high court has asked the Centre to grant citizenship to a 17-year-old girl, raised in India to parents who held Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cards and US citizenship at the time of her birth.

"The petitioner, despite having been born in India to two OCI card holders, educated in India and lived in India with her family, is unable to obtain a passport. These are clearly special circumstances as contemplated under Section 5(4) of the Act," Justice Prathiba M Singh noted while referring to provisions of the Citizenship Act of 1955 and the Passports Act of 1967.

Petitioner Rachita Francis Xavier had moved court challenging rejection of her plea for a passport. She informed the court that both her parents were earlier Indian citizens. However, they acquired US citizenship by 2005 and hence her parents were not Indian citizens on the date she was born.

The petitioner submitted that she is not an illegal migrant and qualified as a person of Indian origin entitling her to citizenship by registration. HC saw merit in the plea and noted that her circumstances would be covered under Explanation 2, as both parents of the petitioner were Indian citizens who had later obtained US citizenship.

The court pointed out that even OCI card holders are free to stay in India and can also rear their families, noting that in Xavier's case the parents were OCI card holders when she was born and she has continuously stayed in India since birth. She has been educated in India and now sought a passport, HC said.

It allowed the plea and permitted the girl to apply for registration as a citizen under Section 5 of the Citizenship Act.

For more news like this visit TOI . Get all the Latest News , City News , India News , Business News , and Sports News . For Entertainment News , TV News , and Lifestyle Tips visit Etimes

IMAGES

Who is an OCI? A simple explainer
"Welcome step": OCI card holders exempted from carrying old passports
OCI Card
OCI card holders no longer required to carry old passports for India
OCI card holders no longer required to carry old passports for India
Overseas Citizenship of India

VIDEO

Shashtri nagar youth group #97 ki taraf se free medical camp
INDIAN TRYING CHINESE STREET FOOD IN CHINA
#gorakala #holidayTemple #kalbhairav #religious #holiday rajasthan India 23 2023@minaPatelVlog7780
This is Why YOU Should Visit Saigon Chinatown & Landmark 81! Vietnam 🇻🇳 Travel Guide 2024|MOJHI VLOG
Aankhon mein🏍️#bikelover #bike #royalenfield #traveling #1000subscriber #youtubeshorts #kids #video
Debut in English County Cricket at Lord's Ground || Cricket24 Career Gameplay Ep #32

COMMENTS

Information on OCI cardholders travelling to India
For an OCI cardholder who is 21 to 49 years of age, re-issuance of OCI card registration is optional each time a new passport is issued. Applicants wishing to use this service can apply online under the OCI miscellaneous services. In case of a change in nationality of OCI cardholders, they can enter or exit India on the strength of their OCI ...
Welcome to Embassy of India, Washington D C, USA
A. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholders. All OCI/PIO card holders are permitted to travel to India irrespective of their nationalities. It may be mentioned that the Government of India has also allowed extension till 31 December, 2021 for re-issuance of OCI card. Further, there is no need to carry the old passport on which the OCI was ...
PDF Frequently Asked Questions I am a US citizen and hold a valid multiple
4. I have an OCI card which needs to be re-issued since my age crossed 50 years and I am carrying a new US passport. Can I travel on my current OCI card to India? Yes. If you have any emergency travel plan, you can travel with your current OCI card, current passport and old passport associated with OCI.
India: OCI Cardholders Now Not Required to Travel with Old Passport
The Embassy of India in Washington, D.C. recently issued a statement that the requirement of carrying both old and new passports for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cardholders whose cards bear their old passport number is no longer in effect. OCI cardholders may now travel to and enter India with just their OCI card and current passport.
PDF Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
However, the applicant can continue to carry the old passport wherein the OCI 'U' visa sticker was pasted along with new passport for visiting India without seeking a new visa, as the visa is lifelong. ... An OCI is entitled to life long visa with free travel to India whereas for a PIO card holder, it is only valid for 15 years. (ii) A PIO ...
OCI Card Holders Can Now Travel to India Without Carrying Old Passports
In a move welcomed by the Indian diaspora, the government has said Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders are no longer required to carry their old, expired passports for travel to India.
OCI cardholders no longer required to carry old passports for India travel
The Indian government has decided to grant further extension of time until December 31, 2021, to get the OCI cards re-issued for those below 20 years and above 50 years…
Consulate General of India, San Francisco, California : FAQ's on OCI
A: No need to carry the passport which contains the U visa, Vide circular No. 26011/06/2015-OCI dated 29 th January, 2015 of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India has decided that, all immigration authorities in India will not insist on production of the foreign passport containing the 'U' Visa Sticker in the case of OCI Cardholders ...
Permitted Categories for Travel to India
Permitted Categories for Travel to India. The Government of India has decided to permit all OCI/PIO card holders regardless of which country passport they hold. (i) The Government of India has restored all existing visas, which had been suspended earlier, including electronic visa except e-Tourist Visa, Tourist Visa and Medical Visa.
No need to carry old passports for India-bound OCI card holders
The Indian embassy in Washington DC has released a circular, stating that Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders are not required to carry their old passports anymore while travelling to ...
OCI card holders no longer required to carry old passports for India travel
India; OCI card holders no longer required to carry old passports for India travel; OCI card holders no longer required to carry old passports for India travel The Indian government has also decided to grant further extension of time till December 31, 2021, to get the OCI cards re-issued for those below the age of 20 years and above 50 years.
Welcome to Consulate General of India, New York (USA)
All OCI/PIO card holders are permitted to travel to India irrespective of their nationalities. OCI Cards to be renewed only once in life after the attaining the age of 20 years and getting a new passport. Renewal of OCI card for those who obtained OCI after 20 years of age is not required. They have to only upload details of their new Passport ...
Rules & Restrictions for OCI Card Holders
Most Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders do not need to have their OCI cards reissued every time they get a new passport. Those having OCI cards issued before the cardholder was 20 years old, on the other hand, only need to get a new OCI card once when they get a new passport after turning 20.
PDF High Commission of India, London, United Kingdom
OCI card re-issued once a new passport is issued after completing 20 years of age, are given further time to do so by 31st December, 2022. Such OCI Cardholders will be allowed to travel on the strength of their existing OCI Cards bearing old passport number and new passport. gh Commission of India, London
Welcome to Embassy of India, Washington D C, USA
The fee for this service is as under: US$25.00 for re-issue of OCI card in lieu of existing OCI card / US$100.00 for re-issue of OCI card in lieu of lost or damaged OCI card. US$3.00 towards Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). US$15.90 payable as service charge to the Outsourcing Agency, and. Fee for any optional services like shipping labels.
OCI card holders no longer required to carry old passports for India travel
OCI cardholders were asked to carry their old passport with them to fly to India. Now, under the new provisions, OCI cardholders are not required to carry their old passports but will still need ...
Good News! India Eases Rules for OCI Cardholders below 20 ...
Hi Murali! As per the relaxation, she can travel to India with the old OCI card, the old passport and the new passport. You can travel too. Please note some airlines denied boarding to OCI cardholders not having renewed their OCI cards after 20 or 50 years, as per reports. So be advised to check with the airline that you will travel on.
PDF Overseas Citizenship of India (Oci) Cardholder
ministry of home affairs foreigners division f. no. - 26011/misc./47/2019 - oci date of publication 22.07.2021 overseas citizenship of india (oci) cardholder
New Criteria of OCI Card Validity for Indian-origin Foreign Citizens
The new criteria of the OCI card validity came into effect this November 1. The OCI card holders within the age bracket of 20 years are required to get their OCI cards reissued each time when their passport is reissued, according to the Consulate General of India. Those above 20 years of age are exempted from ensuring this criterion of validity.
India International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Traveling without updating OCI with new passport information for a
We are traveling onJan 26th. My daughter's passport renewal got delayed and finally I got an emergency passport appointment and we will get passport on 24th only. Can I travel with her OCI and old and new passports without updating the online OCI system? We can start the online submission process, not sure we will be able to
Entry requirements
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India. Your passport must also: - have 2 blank pages for your visa. Check with your travel provider that your ...
Grant citizenship to daughter of OCI card-holders: HC
Delhi High Court directs Centre to grant citizenship to 17-year-old girl born in India to OCI card holder parents despite US citizenship. Petitioner's passport plea rejected due to parents' change ...
Delhi HC to grant citizenship to girl born to OCI cardholders
"A passport can only be issued to a person who is a citizen of India and satisfies the eligibility conditions as prescribed. The rejection of the Petitioner's passport is under Section 6(2)(a) read with Section 5(2)(c) of the Passport Act, 1967. Section 6(2)(a) provides that if the applicant is not a citizen of India, a passport cannot be ...
Consulate General of India, San Francisco, California : OCI Reissuance
OCI Card Reissue Guidelines. According to the recent relaxation in requirements for OCI Card Reissue: (i) OCI cardholder is required to upload ONLINE a copy of the new passport and a recent photo (not more than 30 days old) each time a new passport is issued. The uploading of these documents may be done within three months of receipt of the new ...
BCCI mandates Indian passport for tournaments
BCCI requires Indian passport for player eligibility, excluding PIO/OCI card holders. Girls aged 12-15 can now participate in the U-15 tournament. ... 12-year-old girls can participate in U-15 ...
Grant citizenship to daughter of OCI card-holders: HC
Delhi High Court directs Centre to grant citizenship to 17-year-old girl born in India to OCI card holder parents despite US citizenship. Petitioner's passport plea rejected due to parents' change ...

OCI Cardholders

What you need to keep in mind

Recent updates and news for OCI cardholders

It seems like you're in landscape mode. For the best view, switch to portrait mode where the magic happens!

Welcome to Consulate General of India, New York (USA)

Permitted categories for travel to India

Law Firm in India

Rules & Restrictions for OCI Card Holders

Changes at a Glance

Overseas Citizen of India

Benefits of OCI

Pan/Adhaar Card Linking For NRI/OCI

Old Passport Not Required for Travel to India

Leave a Comment

Enquiry Form

NRI Tax Residency Status in Pandemic Times

United Kingdom - Market Entry & Business Opportunities

Medical Devices Industry in India – Business Opportunities and Advantages

ITAT Allows Foreign Taxes Paid as Deduction for International Bank in India

Is LEI Code Mandatory in India?

Russia - Market Entry and Business Opportunities

Welcome to Embassy of India, Washington D C, USA

Indian-origin Foreign Citizens Must Ensure New Criteria of OCI Card Validity before They Visit India

Related Stories

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Special Air India Flights to and from India Cost Nearly Rs 2 Lakh per Traveler for One-way Journey

What are Hand-baggage Only Fares for British Airways and Delta Airlines Flights?

Future of Air Travel post COVID19: Empty Middle Seats or All Seats with Cover on Economy Flights

All about US DOT’s Final Rule for Airlines: Biden Empowers Travelers to Get Cash Refunds Quickly and Automatically

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Learn About Your Destination

Travel Advisory June 23, 2023

Embassy Messages

Quick Facts

Embassies and Consulates

Destination Description

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Safety and Security

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Travel and Transportation

For additional travel information

Travel Advisory Levels

External Link

Announcement

{{modal[0].title}}

Cookies on GOV.UK

Entry requirements

COVID-19 rules

Passport validity requirements

Visa requirements

Applying for a visa or e-visa

Applicants of Pakistani origin

Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders

Arrival, registration, and extensions

If you’re hospitalised

Exit requirements

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

Accommodation

Customs rules

Satellite phones and listening devices

Taking money into India

Related content

Help us improve GOV.UK

Grant citizenship to daughter of OCI card-holders: HC

Visual Stories

Best of Express

Buzzing Now

May 23: Latest News

Consulate General of India, San Francisco, California

Consulate General of India San Francisco, California, Serving the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah and Territory of Guam

OCI Card Reissue Guidelines

Grant citizenship to daughter of OCI card-holders: HC

IMAGES

VIDEO

COMMENTS