In 2024, OCI cards were extended to the 7th generation of Indian diaspora in Mauritius.
- OCI cards are provided under the OCI Card Scheme.
About OCI Card Scheme
- It was introduced by amending the Citizenship Act, 1955 in 2005.
- In 2015, the Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card scheme was merged with it, and all PIO cardholders were deemed to be OCI cardholders.
- Eligibility criteria for OCI card
- Who was a citizen of India at the time of, or at any time after 26th January, 1950;
- Eligible to become a citizen of India on 26th January, 1950 or belonged to a territory that became part of India after 15th August, 1947; etc.
- Exceptions: No person, who or either of whose parents or grandparents had been a citizen of Pakistan, Bangladesh or such other country as the government may specify.
Benefits enjoyed by OCI cardholders
- Multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India.
- Exemption from reporting to Police authorities for any length of stay.
- Parity with NRIs in financial, economic and educational fields except in the acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties.
