PIO to OCI Services
  • Processing Time: 4-5 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $168
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
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Lost and Damaged OCI Services
  • Processing Time: 6-8 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $168
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
OCI Card Application
  • Processing Time: 7-8 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $347
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong
X1 Visa Services
  • Processing Time: 1-2 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $140
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: 1 Year
OCI Misc. Services
  • Processing Time: 5-6 Weeks
  • Government Fees: $90
  • Visament Fee: $100
  • Validity: Lifelong

Required Documents for PIO to OCI Conversion Application in USA

Your important documents at your fingertips PIO to OCI Conversion Application in USA

  • PIO Card Copy
  • Foreign Passport
  • Employment Letter
  • Marriage Certificate
  • Proof of Address
  • Photograph
  • Previous Renunciation Certificate
  • Foreign Passport / OCI Copy

How Visament Helps You in PIO to OCI Conversion?

The experts at Visament hold years of experience in the OCI field, ensuring an efficient and smooth application process. Additionally, we offer high-quality services with competitive prices and a higher approval rate.

  • Error-free application submission
  • Get personalized support
  • Booking an appointment at VFS
  • 24*7 expert assistance
  • Real-time application update

Drawbacks of PIO Cards

  • OCI img
    No Longer Valid and Discontinued

    From 9 January 2015, the government of India has merged the PIO scheme with the OCI scheme. It means that PIO cards are no longer valid in India.

  • OCI img
    Limited Validity

    PIO cards are only valid for 15 years. It means after the completion of the validity period, you need to renew or convert them to OCI.

  • OCI img
    Require Special Permit

    To participate in specific activities in India, the PIO cardholders require a special permit from the government.

  • OCI img
    No Parity with NRIs

    PIO cardholders do not enjoy the same rights as the OCI and NRIs in the education, finance, and economic fields.

  • OCI img
    More Bureaucratic Restrictions

    PIO cardholders face complex situations during registration with the FRRO while staying longer than 182 days in India.

Are you aware that the Indian government has discontinued the PIO scheme? Everyone holding a PIO card must convert it into an OCI card. The conversion is important, as the OCI card offers more benefits and usefulness. However, the process of converting a PIO to an OCI can be considered complex, as it requires specific documents, completing the online application process, and ensuring that you fulfill all the eligibility criteria. If you wish to get your PIO converted to an OCI but don’t know how, then you are in the right place.

Visament has a team of experts with in-depth knowledge of the entire PIO to OCI conversion process. You can get high-quality service, expert guidance, timely updates, and many more perks, all under one hub and at an affordable budget. Our team can make the whole process of converting a PIO to an OCI easy and fast. Get in touch with us today for your PIO to OCI conversion and avail yourself of all the benefits of having an OCI card.

What is PIO to OCI Conversion?

PIO to OCI conversion is the process of changing and updating the status of a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card to an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder. The Indian government abolished and merged the PIO card scheme into the OCI scheme on 9th January 2015. It is required that every PIO cardholder convert to an OCI cardholder if they wish to avail themselves of similar benefits.

PIO cardholders must apply for an OCI card via the appropriate Indian embassy or consulate. The process may seem confusing, but don’t worry—our team at Visament can help you complete the whole process without any trouble. We will ensure that you get to enjoy the benefits of having an OCI card in the USA or anywhere around the globe.

Benefits of PIO to OCI Conversion In USA

Converting a PIO card (Person of Indian Origin) to an OCI card (Overseas Citizenship of India) can provide you with several benefits. Especially if you are a U.S. citizen of Indian descent. Here are the perks of PIO to OCI conversion:

➜ An OCI card offers a lifelong visa to the cardholder, meaning it is valid for a lifetime, whereas a PIO card had to be renewed every 15 years.

➜ You can travel to India for any duration and purpose without needing to apply for a visa each time if you have an OCI card.

➜ OCI cardholders can purchase and own property in India, making it easier for them to invest in real estate or stay in India. In contrast, PIO cardholders had some restrictions on this.

➜ A person with an OCI card can receive consular assistance, including visa facilitation, legal support, and emergency help while traveling internationally.

➜ If an OCI cardholder stays in India for more than 180 days, they are not required to register with the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

Eligibility for PIO to OCI Conversion

Although all PIO cardholders are considered OCI cardholders, if you want to formally apply for PIO to OCI conversion, you must meet the eligibility criteria below:

➜ Be a spouse of an Indian citizen or an OCI cardholder.

➜ Be a foreign citizen holding a valid passport from a country other than India.

➜ Be a current PIO cardholder, as the PIO to OCI conversion is specifically for people who already possess a valid PIO card.

➜ Be the child of an Indian citizen or have Indian ancestry. This includes individuals born in India or those whose parents or grandparents were born in India.

Note: Anyone whose parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were ever citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh is not eligible to apply for PIO to OCI conversion.

Documents Required For PIO to OCI Conversion

You must submit certain documents to verify your eligibility as a PIO cardholder. The main purpose is to prove clear ancestry to India. Here are the documents required for PIO to OCI conversion in the USA—whether in New York, Houston, or any other city:

➜ Fee payment receipt

➜ Proof of your current address.

➜ Original and current PIO Card

➜ Copy of the filled- out online OCI application form

➜ Birth certificate issued by any Indian authority

➜ Passport-sized photographs as per the specification

➜ Copy of valid foreign passport (i.e., the passport of the country where you hold citizenship)

➜ Copy of your parent’s or grandparent’s passport or any other relevant document that proves your Indian ancestry

How To Apply For PIO to OCI Conversion?

Now that we know the difference between OCI and PIO Cards let’s understand the process of applying for PIO to OCI conversion. You can easily apply for PIO to OCI conversion at Visament by following these steps:

➜ Choose a Service and Make the Payment: Visit our website and choose the service you wish to get assistance with. Select PIO to OCI conversion and pay the required fee to start the process.

➜ List of Documents and Verification: Once we receive your payment, we will promptly send you a thorough checklist of the documents required for PIO to OCI conversion. You need to send all the documents in the proper format according to the checklist to our team.

➜ Authentication and Submission of Documents: After you send the documents, our team of experts will verify each one of the documents to ensure it’s correct and prepare your file. Once our team confirms that everything is right, they will start your application process.

➜ Scheduling an Appointment: Our team will book an appointment for submitting biometric data, which includes fingerprints and photograph collection. We will book an appointment for a date and time according to your convenience. You need to attend the appointment on the scheduled date and time.

➜ Tracking Status and Courier Documents: You can expect your new OCI card to arrive within the estimated processing time. Till then, you can track the status of your application using our track application portal to stay informed about any updates. You can collect your OCI card in person or get it delivered to you via courier by paying an additional fee.

Processing Time For PIO to OCI Conversion

The processing time for PIO to OCI conversion generally takes around 4–6 weeks from the date of application submission. However, this may vary based on several factors:

➜ Submitting poor-quality photos and fingerprints will delay the processing time.

➜  Additional security checks may be required in some cases, which can affect timelines.

➜ Incorrect or missing documents may cause delays as the embassy may request further information or clarification.

➜ Processing times may be longer during peak seasons due to a higher volume of applications.

Fee For PIO to OCI Conversion

The fee to convert a PIO card to an OCI card varies based on the country of application. Here’s the breakdown of the PIO to OCI conversion fee in the USA:

Service

Fee

OCI registration fee

$275

PIO to OCI conversion fee

$100

VFS Service fee

$15.90

Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF)

$3

Courier service or SMS fee

Optional

How To Track The Status Of PIO To OCI Conversion Process?

Tracking your PIO to OCI application status is essential to stay updated on your application’s progress. It helps you manage travel plans and respond to any required actions. Follow these steps:

➜ Step 1: Visit the official OCI services website.

➜ Step 2: Click on the “Status Enquiry” option.

➜ Step 3: Enter your passport number and online file reference number.

➜ Step 4: Enter the security code visible on the screen

➜ Step 5: Click on “Get Status” and check the status of your application.

Our team will keep you informed via notifications about any updates on your PIO to OCI conversion application. However, if you wish to check the status on your own, you can use Visament’s track application status portal to check your application status without any trouble.

OCI Services Offered By Visament

It’s time to say goodbye to stressful and complex procedures. Visament has been delivering trusted services for over 5 years. High-quality service and 100% client satisfaction are the key reasons why many individuals turn to our experts. If you lack the knowledge of application steps, documentation, and legal requirements, getting professional help is the best solution. Here are some OCI services we offer:

➜ New OCI Card: Experience a smooth journey to get a new OCI with Visament’s team of experts. We will cover everything from filling out the application to scheduling an appointment. Enjoy the benefits of having an OCI card with Visament’s expertise.

➜ OCI Miscellaneous Services: Our team will help you update your OCI with changes to your details, address, job, or in case of loss/damage. Get hassle-free services with prompt delivery. Complete all the complex processes without any trouble.

➜ OCI card in Lieu of lost/Damaged PIO Card: Tensed about your lost or damaged PIO card? Don’t worry. Visament can help you to get your PIO card replaced with an OCI card. Contact us anytime, anywhere, and reduce the burden from your shoulders.

➜ Renunciation of Indian Citizenship: If you have citizenship of another country, you must renounce it. If you don’t know how to do that, no worries; our team has good knowledge about everything, and they will guide you at every step.

➜ OCI Card Renewal: An OCI card may have to be renewed for several reasons. Our team can handle the complete paperwork for you and let you enjoy a stress-free application process. We will take care of everything so that you can keep availing of the benefits of an OCI card.

Extra Immigration Services Provided By Our Experts

We provide several services aiming to remove all the worries faced by you when applying for immigration services. Our team will ensure that your asking for assistance with immigration services will not turn into a disappointment. We understand that trusting someone with immigration services can be risky, but you can trust us. If you want your application to get approved on the first try, choose Visament’s expertise. You can get all these services under one hub when you choose us:

OCI Services in the USA

PAN Card Services

NRI PAN Card Application

Aadhar Card Services

Police Clearance Certificate

Indian Passport Renewal

Surrender of Indian Passport

Lost/Damaged OCI Card

Why Visament Is The Best Choice For Immigration Services

Filling out an application might seem easy, but the process is complex and requires skill, attention to detail, and up-to-date knowledge. That’s where Visament steps in. We work tirelessly to make your immigration experience smooth and rewarding. Our team stays connected with you from start to finish, addressing all your questions. Still thinking? Here are just a few reasons why our clients love working with us:

➜ Reliable and Experienced Team

➜ Accurate, Flawless Applications

➜ 24/7 Customer Support

➜ Affordable, Transparent Pricing

➜ Updates via WhatsApp or Email

➜ Customized Support for Every Case

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
Trustpilot

Best Website to Apply for a Conversion Application

One of the best websites to apply for a PIO to OCI conversion in the USA is online. I have got my PIO to OCI conversion from the Visament website, which has an easy application process that is understandable by everyone.

Trustpilot

Applied for a Conversion Application from the Visament

My dad suggested the Visament website for the PIO to OCI conversion application. for which I have filled out the online application with all the documents attached to it. After paying the application fees, I have submitted my application error-free to the online Visament website.

Trustpilot

Visament Has the Best Support Team

I'm impressed by the supportive and active online services from the Visament website. Through this, I don't have a single problem while applying for a PIO to OCI conversion application, and process my application quickly.

Trustpilot

Booked My PIO to OCI Conversion Appointment

With the help of Visament experts, I have booked my Online PIO to OCI conversion appointment, and it was a very easy process, which also saved my time. I would like to thank all the Visament and its experts for booking my appointment.

Trustpilot

Applied for a PIO to OCI Application Through the Visament

I have applied for a PIO to OCI conversion application, for which I have filled out an online application with all the related documents. It was a simple and easy process that can be done by every person.

Trustpilot

Visament Has a Fast Application Process

I have applied for a PIO to OCI application conversion through the Visament website because it processes my application faster, and it has professional experts who help me through the entire process.

Trustpilot

Cleared All My Problems Regarding the PIO to OCI  Application

I had some problems with the application process for my PIO to OCI conversion. So I sought help from them and they instantly solved my problem in just a few minutes and helped me to fill out an error-free conversion application USA.

Trustpilot

Submitted All the Documents to the Online Visament Website

For my PIO to OCI conversion application, I have submitted some of the documents, like address proof, current PIO card, birth certificate, passport size photo, and many other valuable documents for the smooth and easy processing of my PIO to OCI conversion application.

Trustpilot

Visament is a Trusted and Secure Website

If I want to apply for a conversion application USA, then I will choose only the Visament website for the secure application process. It is a trustworthy website that makes me stress-free about my application process.

Trustpilot

Affordable Fees for the PIO to OCI Conversion

I found that Visament has a low fee for the conversion of a PIO to an OCI card USA. This is the reason why it is the first choice of all other customers. It provides high-quality OCI services at an affordable price.

Trustpilot

I Can Get All the Real-time Updates for My Conversion Application

Through the Visament website, I can check my application status and get real-time updates related to my PIO to OCI conversion. This will help to track updates regarding my conversion application. I have liked the Visament website for its extraordinary services.

Trustpilot

Got My OCI Card Hassle-free From the Visament Website

I wanted to thank all the Visament and its support team for providing me a great assistance during my PIO to OCI conversion application process. With your help, I got my OCI card hassle-free.

Trustpilot

Visament Has an Active and Friendly Support Team

Visament has active, dedicated experts who are ready 24/7 to help customers with their queries. Their behavior towards the customers is friendly and polite. I'm impressed by the excellent OCI services from the Visament website.

Trustpilot

Error-free Pio to OCI Application Process

For my PIO to OCI conversion application USA, I have filled out the conversion through the Visament website, submitted all the documents, and paid the fees for the successful application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

The PIO (person of Indian origin) card scheme was merged with an OCI (Overseas citizen of India) card scheme on the 9th of January, 2015. It was merged to streamline the residency norms and to make it easier for foreign nationals of Indian origin to travel to India.

To apply for PIO to OCI conversion, you need to apply online at the official OCI website and upload all the required documents> submit a printout of your application with your signature at an authorized center> wait patiently for a confirmation mail.

Yes, you can travel to India while your OCI application is still under processing until you have a valid visa for the length of your stay. If you want to travel urgently and your OCI application is pending then you can apply for a regular visa to enter India.

Generally, an OCI is considered a better option than a PIO because it provides more rights and privileges. While both cards permit visa-free travel to India, an OCI card offers a lifetime, multiple-entry visa; in contrast, a PIO card is valid only for 15 years. Also, OCIs enjoy more privileges and rights within India, including access to work and financial opportunities. whereas PIOs face more restrictions.

Yes, PIO cards are still valid in India as a travel document untill 31st of December, 2025. This is an extension of the previous deadline, which was 31st December, 2024.

Yes, an OCI card can be used as proof of identity in India. The cardholder can use the OCI card for several reasons. Such as when applying for a PAN card, opening a bank account, making investments in India, owning real estate, etc.

Yes, according to the RBI (Reserve Bank of India), a person of Indian origin (PIO) can have a bank account in India.

A PIO stands for Persons of Indian Origin, which is a travel document issued by the Indian government to people of Indian origin who are citizens of other countries. It can be used to travel visa-free to India for a period of 15 years, offers exemption from registering with local police for stays up to 180 days, and provides several benefits like parity with NRIs in financial, economic, and educational fields.

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