The idea of dual nationality revolves around individuals being citizens of two countries simultaneously. Each country has its own set of nationality laws based on its unique policies.
In accordance with the Indian Citizenship Act of 1955, dual citizenship is not recognized in India. If an Indian citizen obtains citizenship from another country, they must renounce their Indian citizenship.
The Constitution of India strictly prohibits the simultaneous possession of Indian citizenship and citizenship of a foreign country. Nevertheless, the Government of India introduced the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) in 2005.
Individuals of Indian Origin (PIOs) who fall into certain categories who have migrated from India and acquired citizenship in foreign countries except Bangladesh and Pakistan are eligible for OCI as long as their respective home countries allow some form of dual citizenship under their relevant national laws.
Benefits of holding an OCI card include:
• Multiple-entry, lifelong visa for visiting India, serving various purposes.To obtain a new OCI card when an OCI cardholder acquires a new passport, the following guidelines apply:
1. Re-issuance of the OCI card is mandatory each time the cardholder acquires a new passport until the age of 20.When collecting the OCI card, the following documents must be presented:
• Foreign PassportLooking for a comprehensive process to establish yourself abroad? Connect with ICRL INDIA, the leading consultant for Overseas Immigration, providing step-by-step guidance worldwide.