The Union Home Ministry has made stricter rules for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). Now, the government can cancel their registration if they are found guilty of serious crimes.

Stricter Grounds for Cancellation

Under the new rule, OCI status can be taken away if a person is sentenced to at least two years in prison. It can also be revoked if they are charge-sheeted for crimes that can lead to seven years or more in jail. This applies even if the crime happened in another country, as long as Indian law recognises the offence.

What OCI Status Offers

An OCI card allows Indian-origin foreign nationals to visit India without a visa. It also gives lifelong, multiple-entry travel privileges. Cardholders can enjoy some economic and educational benefits. However, they cannot vote or hold constitutional posts.

Government’s Reason for Change

The Home Ministry issued the new notification on Tuesday using powers under the Citizenship Act, 1955. Officials told ANI that this move is meant to strengthen the legal framework after some OCI cardholders were found involved in criminal or anti-national activities.

Who Can Apply for OCI

The OCI scheme began in August 2005. It is for people of Indian origin who were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or were eligible to become citizens then. People from Pakistan, Bangladesh, or other countries notified by the Centre are not eligible.