PIO to OCI Services
  • Processing Time: 2-4 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $118.9
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
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OCI Card Application
  • Processing Time: 5-6 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $293.9
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
OCI Miscellaneous Services
  • Processing Time: 5-6 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $43.9
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
OCI Card Renewal Services
  • Processing Time: 5-6 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $43.9
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
OCI Card for Minors Services
  • Processing Time: 5-6 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $293.9
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong

Required Documents for PIO to OCI Conversion Service in India

Your important documents at your fingertips for PIO to OCI Conversion Service In India

  • Proof of Address
  • Photograph
  • Signature
  • Thumb Impression
  • Indian Origin Proof
  • Current Passport
  • PIO Card

Why You Need PIO to OCI Conversion Help from Visament?

With Visament, convert your PIO card into an OCI card smoothly. We are India’s specialized PIO to OCI conversion service provider. Our team ensures an efficient, stress-free process, assisting you at every step of your application.

  • Data privacy and security
  • Error-free application submission
  • 24*7 Customer Support
  • Guaranteed pass service
  • Scheduling an appointment at VFS

Disadvantages of PIO Card

  • OCI img
    Discontinued and No Longer Valid

    PIO cards are no longer valid in India, as this scheme has been withdrawn. As of 9 January 2015, the Indian Government announced the merger of PIO cards with OCI cards.

     
  • OCI img
    Limited Validity

    Unlike OCI cards, the PIO cards are not valid for a lifetime. They come with a validity of 15 years, requiring conversion or renewal to the OCI.

     
  • OCI img
    Need for Special Permission

    PIO cardholders need special permission to participate in certain specific activities.

     
  • OCI img
    More Bureaucratic Restrictions

    If staying longer than six months, PIO cardholders face more complex situations in registration with the FRRO

     
  • OCI img
    No Parity with NRIs

    Unlike OCI, PIO cardholders do not have parity with NRIs in the economic, education, and finance fields.

     

Do you find converting the PIO card to the OCI card overwhelming? Well, Visament is here to make this process easier for you. Our team of experts will navigate you to a path where you can get your PIO converted to an OCI card with confidence and no trouble.

Our team of professionals will assist you throughout from gathering the documents to submitting an error-free application for quick approval. We will make the process fast and easy and help make it hassle-free for you.

Understanding the PIO to OCI Conversion

Converting a PIO card to an OCI card allows a former Person of India Origin (PIO) card holder to acquire an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. In the year 2015, the Indian government ceased the PIO card and called for PIO cardholders to change to OCI.

This switch aids travelers and residents by offering more substantial rights and easing the process of getting access to India.

Let us learn a little more about the steps, requirements, benefits, and converting a PIO to an OCI process.

Things You Need To Know About PIO and OCI Card

What is a PIO Card?

PIO Card stands for Person of Indian Origin, introduced in 2002. It was used as proof of identification granted to PIOs with passports in countries apart from Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and China.

It permitted visa-free travel for people belonging to Indian origin who were residing internationally for a period of up to 15 years.

Although, it had some limitations on residency and employment rights. The government of India discontinued the PIO card scheme on the 9th of January, 2015, and combined it with the OCI card.

What is the OCI Card?

OCI (Overseas Citizenship Of India) card was introduced in the year 2005 in India to fulfill the demands of citizens who insisted on dual citizenship.

An OCI card provides visa-free travel for a lifetime, rights for residency, and access to some economic benefits which makes it a preferred option for people belonging to the Indian heritage.

With this scheme, an individual cannot have any second country's passport at the same time while holding an Indian Passport even if a child is claimed as a citizen of some other country and required to use one of the passports of that country to travel abroad. Hence, an OCI scheme is not comparable to dual nationality or citizenship. In the year 2015, the government of India combined the two programs, ceased the PIO card, and permitted the PIO cardholder to apply for an OCI card.

Key Differences Between PIO and OCI Cards

Even though a PIO card and an OCI card are almost the same, some factors differentiate an OCI from a PIO:

Features PIO Card OCI Card
Visa-Free Travel 15 years Lifetime
Stay Duration 180 days without registering No limit
Eligibility People of Indian origin People of Indian origin
Validity 15 years Lifetime
Owning a Property No agricultural property No agricultural property
Seeking Employment Limited Extensive rights
Renewal After every 15 years No renewal is needed, updates (if required)
Current Status Ceased in 2015 Still active

Step-by-Step Guide to Convert Your PIO Card to an OCI Card

Follow these steps to make the conversion process for PIO to OCI prompt and easy

➜ Step 1: Start the Application Process

The first step is to search for the OCI application started link and click on it.

Make sure to remember all the details before filling out the OCI in place of the PIO application form.

  • Keep in mind that your current US passport must have at least 2 blank pages and is valid for at least six months from the date you apply. Consider the below-mentioned things:
  • Expiry Date
  • Date of issue
  • Passport Number
  • Details of your identity certificate/any other valid passport
  • Country of issue
  • Passport/certificate number
  • Place of issue
  • Nationality
  • Current citizenship details
  • Existing PIO card

➜ Step 2: Select the Appropriate Category

You will be able to see a widget on the CKGS website, it contains multiple categories from which you have to click on OCI instead of PIO to proceed further.

After you click, it will indicate some miscellaneous services whence you have to choose the miscellaneous services that apply to your case.

➜ Step 3: Wait for the Result Screen

The following information will be displayed on the result screen:

  • Processing Time
  • Fee for OCI in lieu of PIO
  • CKGS web reference number
  • Checklist of the documents: Read this section carefully to know what documents, forms, and letters are required to be submitted.

➜ Step 4: Fill Out the Required Forms

Take a printout of the documents mentioned on the document checklist and fill out the application forms.

Recheck and review the letters and forms then go to the & My Accounts’ section and print the forms. Put your signature on the forms and letters.

➜ Step 5: Choose Submission Mode

You can either choose shipping or walk-in as a mode of submission

For shipping, you have to send your fully completed application form along with the documents and payments by shipping them to the CKGS application center of your jurisdiction.

For Walk-ins, you can continue online to proceed further to the appointment process and follow these steps:

  • Select the date for an appointment
  • Choose any convenient time slot
  • Confirm the date and time for the appointment from CKGS
  • Appear at the CKGS application center on the selected appointment date and time to submit your application.

➜ Step 6: Pay the Conversion Fee

You can pay online using a credit card at the CKGS application center.

The fees include OCI in place of PIO fees, Indian community welfare fund, CKGS Service fee, and any other additional fee.

Make sure that you have your credit card with you as the centers do not accept payment through cash or personal checks.

➝ Visit the Government Online OCI Website

To resume, you will have to leave the CKGS website and go to the government online OCI website. After visiting the website, select OCI Registration (In place of PIO Card), and fill out the A and B forms. Ensure that your jurisdiction is the same as mentioned earlier in the process. Attach your photograph and put your signature on the form.

➝ There are some specifications for a photograph that need to be followed:

  • Its size must be 2*2.
  • Must not be stapled or taped.
  • The background must be white.
  • The photograph should be colored.
  • Your attire must be normal and colored.
  • Must be printed on glossy photo paper.
  • It must be taken within the past six months of applying.
  • The photo for your OCI can not be similar to the photo on your passport.
  • If you normally wear prescription glasses, a hearing device, or a wig, the photograph should show that.
  • Anything that may obscure your hairline or hair like a hat should not be worn except for personal reasons.

➝ Before uploading the photograph, ensure that it meets the below-mentioned conditions:

  • Size must not exceed 200kb.
  • The photograph must be in JPEG/JPG format.
  • Its minimum dimensions should be 200*200 pixels.
  • Its maximum dimensions should be 900*900 pixels.
  • The height and width of the photograph must be equal.

➝ Here are the requirements for the signature:

  • The maximum size is 200kb.
  • It must be uploaded in JPEG/JPG format.
  • Its height and width should have an aspect ratio of 1:3.
  • Its minimum dimensions must be 200*67 pixels and the maximum must be 900*300 pixels.

➜ Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents and Signature

Make sure to upload all the required documents on the Government of India website after filling out the form. 

If you don’t have your documents prepared yet then you can come to the site later and submit them but ensure to return and upload the documents on the website.

➝ New Web Reference Number

You will now get a new web reference number from the government of Indian website. You can use this number on the CKGS website to track and get updates about the status of your application.

➜ Step 8: Use the CKGS Website for Further Steps

After completing and printing all the government OCI forms, return to the CKGS website and click on the already filled-in government form.

Add the new web reference number, CKGS web reference number, date of birth, and current USA passport number in the specified fields if you are an existing applicant.

➜ Step 9: Submit at a CKGS Application Center

Once you have finished the online process, the final step is to submit your physical application either via shipping or walk-in.

You can select the option that is convenient for you depending on your jurisdiction.

If you select the shipping option, the CKGS will drop you an email acknowledgment saying Received but not verified. Shortly after receiving your application package.

Do not forget that your application will not be processed until you submit the physical application package to the CKGS Application Center so make sure to visit the center with all your documents.

Before submitting keep these things in mind:

  • Tick off the boxes on both checklists.
  • Set all the documents in the same order as specified in the checklist.
  • Place all the documents in an envelope along with one copy of the document checklist.
  • Verify if the number of your forms, letters, and documents is right according to the checklist.

Documents Required for PIO to OCI Conversion

To get your OCI card converted into PIO you need to submit the following documents

Document Type Details
PIO Card Submit your valid and original PIO card.
Passport Provide your current passport from an eligible country.
Online Application Form Fill out and complete the online application form.
Recent Photograph Submit a recent passport-sized photograph as per the specified requirements.
Proof of Indian Origin Provide proof of Indian origin, such as a birth certificate or other relevant documents.
Extra Documents Additional documents, such as address proof or personal details, may be required by your consulate or embassy.

Some additional documents like address proof or personal details may required to be submitted depending on your consulate or embassy.

It is advised to confirm with your nearest local consulate for any additional documents or get assistance from a visa service provider like Visament to clarify all your doubts.

Fees for PIO to OCI Conversion Services

Visament is known for its affordability, we believe in providing high-quality service to our customers without them having to empty their pockets.

The total amount that you have to pay as a fee at Visament is € 60-100. Let us break the amount according to the expenses involved:

Fee Type Amount
Government Fees € 66-120
VFS Fees €7.44-15
SMS Charges €1.44
Validity Lifelong
Number of Entries Multiple Entry

Processing Time for PIO to OCI Conversion

Processing of an OCI card involves two steps. Once the consulate in Delhi approves the OCI card and sticker, the applicant has to send the passport along with the fee receipt to the CKGS.

The processing time typically takes several months to process the card. However, converting a PIO card involves one step and takes almost 4 to 6 weeks to process.

Conversion of PIO to OCI card can generally take a few weeks to even several months. The time depends on the location and current demand.

Processing time is faster for those who apply by submitting complete details and relevant documents. You are advised to use this as your highest priority if you have any kind of urgency to avoid delays.

Why Choose Professional Help for PIO to OCI Conversion?

The process of converting the PIO card to the OCI card can be hard to deal with. With Visament PIO to OCI Conversion Help, this process can be done promptly with the help of our experts. Error-free applications, speedy approval, and professional assistance are our promises to you.

Get Expert help to Renew your OCI Card, OCI Card Application Process, convert PIO to OCI, and many more services without any hassle. Our mission is to assist in making the process smooth and stress-free for you.

How Visament Process Works
  • Choose a Service

    Select the service you need.

  • Pay & Submit Documents

    Complete payment and upload your documents.

  • Expert Verification

    Our experts verify and submit your documents.

  • Track Your Application

    Receive your receipt and track progress.

Our Reviews

Helping Lumers streamline their workflow and deliver faster

Overall rating
4.75
Trust Pilot

Cleared All My Doubts Related to My PIO to OCI Application

I highly appreciate the support your team has provided during the OCI application process. Finding the best solution to complete my OCI card application process was a difficult task, but Visament made it so easy to apply for an OCI card online within the given time limits. Your team was really helpful in completing the whole application on time. Thank you for this support.

Trust pilot

Quick Pio to OCI Conversion Processing Time Through Visament

For my PIO to OCI conversion, I have only waited for a few days for the process of my conversion application, and after a few days, I got my OCI card. Impressed with such a quick and hassle-free processing from the Visament website.

Trust Pilot

Filled and Submitted All the Documents for My Pio to Oci Conversion

I have filled out an Online application for my PIO to OCI conversion, for which I have filled all the details in the online form and attached all the documents for a smooth process of my PIO to OCI conversion.

Trust Pilot

Applied for an Online Conversion Application From the Visament

Applied for an online PIO to OCI conversion for which I have given all the essential documents online, like the Photos, passport, and PIO card. All thanks to the Visament and its team for making my application so smooth.

Trust Pilot

After Being Suggested by My Dad, I Applied for a Conversion Application

My dad suggested, I convert PIO to OCI from the Visament website because it has an easy and simple process that can be understood by everyone easily. impressed with the entire application process.

Trust Pilot

Instant Support From the Visament Agents

In my opinion, I will give Visament a 5/5 rating because it has a perfect conversion application process, and the Visament agents are 24/7 here to help you through your application.

Trust Pilot

Visament Has Affordable Fees for the Pio to OCI Conversion

For my PIO to OCI conversion application, I have paid € 60 for my application, I found this price more affordable than the other PIO to OCI conversion websites. I have also suggested this website to all my friends and family.

Trust Pilot

Had a Great Experience With My PIO to OCI Conversion

Impressed with the PIO to OCI application conversion form on the Visament website. I  don't have any problem related to my conversion. OCI agents helped me a lot through my conversion application.

Trust Pilot

One of the Best Decisions to Choose Visament

I have applied for the PIO to OCI conversion from the Visament, which has more benefits. So, choosing the Visament is a good option for me to get an error-free PIO to OCI conversion.

Trust Pilot

Helped by the Pio Card Agents for My Conversion Application

PIO card agents helped me in a smooth application process for conversion. If I have any doubts, then the Visament agents are there to help me solve my problems.

Trust Pilot

Visament Has Skilled and Professional Consultants

Stunned to see a professional and skilled PIO to OCI consultants from the Visament website, which helped me to fill out an online application, submit the essential documents, and pay the fees for my PIO to OCI conversion.

Trust Pilot

Impressed by the PIO to OCI Services of the Visament Website

I have applied for a Conversion application for my PIO to OCI. After viewing the excellent work from the Visament agents, I was impressed and want to apply for more services from the Visament website in the future.

Trust Pilot

Smooth OCI to PIO Conversion From the Visament Website

Impressed by the quick and easy conversion process from the Visament website. I have never seen such a smooth PIO to OCI application conversion.  I would like to suggest that everyone who wants to apply for a PIO to OCI conversion.

Trust Pilot

Helped by the Pio Card Agents for My Conversion Application

PIO card agents helped me in a smooth application process for conversion. If I have any doubts, then the Visament agents are there to help me solve my problems.

Trust Pilot

Visament Has Skilled and Professional Consultants

Stunned to see a professional and skilled PIO to OCI consultants from the Visament website, which helped me to fill out an online application, submit the essential documents, and pay the fees for my PIO to OCI conversion.

Trust Pilot

Impressed by the PIO to OCI Services of the Visament Website

I have applied for a Conversion application for my PIO to OCI. After viewing the excellent work from the Visament agents, I was impressed and want to apply for more services from the Visament website in the future.

Trust Pilot

Smooth OCI to PIO Conversion From the Visament Website

Impressed by the quick and easy conversion process from the Visament website. I have never seen such a smooth PIO to OCI application conversion.  I would like to suggest that everyone who wants to apply for a PIO to OCI conversion.

Trust Pilot

Submitted All the Documents for My PIO to OCI Conversion

For my PIO to OCI conversion application, I have submitted some of the essential documents, which include a PIO card, original passport, photos, Proof of Indian origin, and other valuable documents for an easy and error-free process of my conversion application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, an OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) can buy residential and commercial properties in India. However, they cannot purchase agricultural land, farmhouses, or plantation propertieis.

Yes, PIO cardholders can convert to OCI cardholders. As per the statement of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the existing PIO cardholders will automatically be considered as OCI cardholders, and if they want, they can apply for a separate OCI card.

Any individual who was eligible to become an Indian citizen on or after January 26, 1950, belongs to any Indian territory after the 15th of August, 1947, or who is a child or grandchild of someone who meets these criteria is eligible to apply for an OCI card.

In terms of banking, PIO stands for Person of Indian Origin. It means a person who is a citizen of any country, except Bangladesh or Pakistan, but has ties to India, such as previously having an Indian passport or having Indian ancestry.

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