Are Oci Card Holders Allowed To Travel To India
Over the past few decades, the world has become a global village, and people are migrating across borders for various reasons. The Indian government has recognized this fact and has made significant efforts to make it convenient for people of Indian origin to connect with their roots. One such initiative that the Indian government has taken is the issuance of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. OCI cards grant cardholders certain rights akin to Indian citizens, such as visa-free travel to the country. In this article, we will explore whether OCI cardholders are allowed to travel to India amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
What is an OCI Card?
OCI stands for Overseas Citizen of India. An OCI card is a document that grants non-resident Indians significant rights akin to Indian citizens. OCI cardholders enjoy multiple benefits, such as visa-free travel to India, the ability to own, sell, or transfer immovable properties in India, and many other rights on par with Indian citizens. These rights and benefits have made the OCI card a highly sought-after document among non-resident Indians.
Can OCI Cardholders Travel to India During the Covid-19 Pandemic?
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused widespread travel restrictions worldwide. Many countries have closed their borders, suspended visa services, and imposed mandatory quarantine measures to curb the spread of the virus. The Indian government has also taken several measures to control the pandemic's spread, including suspending all international commercial flights since March 2020.
However, the Indian government has eased the travel restrictions for OCI cardholders in a phased manner. As of 22 February 2021, the Indian government has allowed OCI cardholders to travel to India for any purpose, except tourism. OCI cardholders can now travel to India for business, employment, or educational purposes, provided they comply with the Covid-19 guidelines issued by the Government of India.
What are the Covid-19 Guidelines for OCI Cardholders Travelling to India?
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to pose a threat to public health, the Government of India has issued several guidelines for travellers entering India. OCI cardholders must comply with the following guidelines:
- OCI cardholders must carry a negative RT-PCR test report conducted within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey to India.
- OCI cardholders must undergo a mandatory self-paid 14-day quarantine period, regardless of their negative RT-PCR test report.
- The quarantine period can be at-home quarantine or institutional quarantine, depending on the traveller's choice and the option provided by the state government.
- OCI cardholders must register themselves on the Air Suvidha online portal to provide personal and health-related details before their travel to India.
The Bottom Line
OCI cardholders can travel to India during the Covid-19 pandemic for any purpose except tourism, provided they comply with the Covid-19 guidelines issued by the Government of India. The Indian government has eased travel restrictions for OCI cardholders in a phased manner, recognizing their importance to India's economy and culture. OCI cardholders should keep themselves updated with the latest travel guidelines issued by the Government of India and take all necessary precautions to avoid contracting and spreading the Covid-19 virus.
