This update is for foreign nationals, holding status as Overseas Citizens of India (OCI). The Indian Embassy in the U.S. issued this clarification in late March 2021. OCI card holders who obtained a new passport after crossing the age of 20 or 50, respectively, generally require reissuance of the OCI card. This requirement has been in force since 2005. An earlier press release on the Indian Government’s Ministry of External Affairs website indicated that this requirement had been temporarily relaxed until June 30, 2020 and OCI card holders must carry their existing OCI card along with both the old and new passports for smooth travel. Our earlier update on this topic be found here.

A recent press release on Indian Embassy, Washington DC’s website indicates that this relaxation is extended until December 31, 2021. Additionally, the press release notifies that OCI card holders must carry the new (current) passport along with the existing OCI card and that they are NOT required to carry the old passport. To err on the safe side, we would recommend travellers to carry the old passport as well for a smooth travel experience at the airport while boarding the flight and on arriving in India until all parties get familiar with the new rules. We at MISPL will continue to share any other important updates on this topic.