Govt notifies Citizenship Rules changes with OCI digital focus
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The Union Home Ministry has notified amendments to the Citizenship Rules, 2009, shifting Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) processes online and tightening rules for minor applicants.
All OCI card registration and renunciation applications must now be submitted electronically via https://ociservices.gov.in, replacing paper forms. A new proviso bars minor children from holding dual passports while possessing an Indian one.
Key changes include electronic OCI (e-OCI) issuance—physical or digital—eliminating duplicate document requirements. OCI cardholders must surrender physical cards upon renunciation or cancellation to Indian missions or FRROs; non-compliance allows government cancellation regardless.
Applicants consent to biometric collection for Fast Track Immigration during registration. Rejections now permit appeals to a higher authority with a right to be heard; naturalisation reviews under section 15A require personal representation.
The digital OCI register will be maintained officially. The 2005 OCI scheme covers persons of Indian origin (post-26 January 1950 citizens or eligible), excluding those linked to Pakistan or Bangladesh ancestry.
(Inputs from PTI)