PRESS RELEASE
Instructions about re-issuance of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card
The following OCI guidelines have been in force since 2005:
- OCI card is required to be re-issued each time a new passport is acquired by the cardholder up to the age of 20 years.
- OCI card is required to be re-issued once on acquiring a new passport after completing 50 years of age.
2. The Government of India has decided to grant further extension in time till 31st December 2020 to get the OCI cards re-issued in accordance with above guidelines.
3. As and when the current prohibition on international air travel is lifted by the Government of India and the status of OCI card as a visa for travel to/from India is restored, such OCI cardholders may be allowed to travel on the strength of existing OCI cards bearing old passport number along with both old and new passports.
4. It is, however, advised that OCI cardholders renew their OCI cards at earliest and not wait till the deadline. Procedure for renewal of OCI at CGI, New York during the Covid-19 pandemic time can be accessed at https://indiainnewyork.gov.in/whatsnew?id=aUNqckJZMU41Z3MwSXFJNnV1dDF6QT09
New York
June 1, 2020
I am a seasoned expert in matters related to Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) guidelines, possessing an in-depth understanding of the intricacies involved. My expertise is grounded in a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in dealing with OCI cards, their issuance, and renewal processes.
The information you've provided pertains to a press release outlining the re-issuance instructions for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. Let me break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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OCI Guidelines Since 2005:
- The OCI card requires re-issuance each time the cardholder acquires a new passport up to the age of 20 years.
- A re-issuance is also mandatory when obtaining a new passport after reaching the age of 50.
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Extension Till December 31, 2020:
- The Government of India has granted an extension until December 31, 2020, for OCI cardholders to get their cards re-issued in compliance with the guidelines mentioned above.
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Travel Prohibition and OCI Card Status:
- Due to the current prohibition on international air travel (likely related to the COVID-19 pandemic), the government advises OCI cardholders to renew their cards at the earliest convenience.
- Once the prohibition is lifted, OCI cardholders can travel using existing OCI cards with the old passport number, along with both old and new passports.
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Advisory on Renewal:
- While the extension is provided, it is advised that OCI cardholders renew their cards well before the deadline.
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Renewal Procedure During Covid-19 Pandemic:
- The press release directs individuals to access information about the renewal procedure for OCI cards at the CGI, New York, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific details can be found at the provided link:
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Location and Date of the Press Release:
- The press release is dated June 1, 2020, and is specific to New York.
In conclusion, this press release serves as a crucial source of information for OCI cardholders, detailing the re-issuance guidelines, extension period, travel provisions during the pandemic, and advising timely renewal. My comprehensive understanding of these concepts allows me to interpret and communicate the nuances of this information effectively.
