India declares PIO cards invalid; Govt issues urgent advisory for Visa, OCI applications
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, April 20, 2026:The Bureau of Immigration has announced that all Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cards have become invalid after December 31, 2025, and can no longer be used for entry or stay in India.
Issuing an urgent advisory, the Indian government has directed all PIO cardholders to immediately apply for a valid Indian visa or convert to an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to regularise their status.
According to the advisory, individuals who entered India on a PIO card on or before the deadline must apply for a visa without delay to ensure their stay remains legal. Applications can be made through the e-FRRO portal under the “New Visa” category.
For those currently outside India, authorities clarified that PIO cards are no longer accepted for entry into the country. Such travellers must obtain a valid visa before planning their visit.
The government has also updated the process for OCI registration. Applications under the earlier category of “OCI Registration (In Lieu of Valid PIO Card)” are no longer valid. Applicants must now file fresh applications under the “New OCI Registration” category through the official OCI services portal.
Additionally, after completing the online application, applicants are required to submit documents physically. Those residing in India must schedule appointments at their respective FRRO offices for verification.
Officials further emphasised that a valid visa is mandatory for submitting an OCI application within India.