The Ministry of Home Affairs has introduced significant changes affecting Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), as notified in August 2025. The updated rules expand the grounds for cancellation of OCI registration and card status, aiming to strengthen oversight and protect India’s national security interests.
Under the new regulations, an OCI card or registration can be revoked if the cardholder is convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for a term of two years or more, regardless of whether the offence occurs in India or abroad, provided the offence is also recognised under Indian law. Additionally, OCI cards may be cancelled even if the cardholder is merely charge-sheeted for a serious offence carrying a punishment of seven years or more, extending the government’s reach to pre-conviction cases. Notably, these rules now apply for the entire lifetime of the cardholder, removing the previous limitation that only considered offences occurring within five years of registration.
Beyond criminal offences, several other conditions can trigger OCI revocation. These include obtaining registration through fraud, false representation, or concealing material facts; expressing disaffection toward the Constitution of India; or engaging in activities prejudicial to India’s sovereignty, integrity, security, or international relations. The rules also cover unlawful activities during wartime, such as communication or trade with the enemy, reflecting a broad approach to safeguarding public and national interest.
OCI eligibility remains limited to foreign nationals of Indian origin who were Indian citizens on or after January 26, 1950, or would have qualified on that date, including their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Individuals who are or were citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, or other specified countries, and their descendants, remain excluded.
Launched in 2005, the OCI scheme allows life-long multiple-entry visa-free travel to India and grants holders extensive rights to live, study, and work in the country. However, OCI does not confer full Indian citizenship, including voting rights or eligibility for public office, and restricts the purchase of agricultural land. The new regulations, impacting over 500,000 cardholders worldwide, underscore the government’s intent to align OCI privileges with legal compliance, national security, and public interest.
“OCI registration shall be liable to get cancelled when a person has been sentenced to imprisonment for a term of not less than two years or has been charge-sheeted for an offence carrying punishment of imprisonment for seven years or more.” — Ministry of Home Affairs, August 2025