Consulate General of IndiaSeattleServing the States of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington

Overview

The Government of India has extended the validity of all Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cards, including handwritten ones, until December 31, 2025. These can be used for travel to and from India with a valid foreign passport. However, if the ICAO declares handwritten PIO cards invalid, travelers may need to get a visa.

PIO cardholders are strongly advised to convert their cards to Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards before the deadline. While PIO cardholders as of January 9, 2015, are considered OCI cardholders, formal conversion is recommended for smooth travel.

Steps to Apply for OCI in Lieu of PIO Card

1. Visit the OCI Website

   
   

   • Go to the official OCI services portal: https://ociservices.gov.in/onlineOCI/.

2. Complete the Online Application

   
   

   • Fill out the OCI application form online, selecting the option for "OCI in lieu of PIO card."

   • Upload the required documents, including your valid PIO card and foreign passport.

3. Prepare Required Documents

   
   

   • Valid PIO card (handwritten or machine-readable)

   • Valid foreign passport

   • Additional documents as specified on the VFS Global website.

4. Pay the Fees

   
   

   • After completing the online application on the OCI portal, proceed to the VFS Global website.

   • Register or log in to the VFS portal to create a new OCI application submission.

   • Upload the printed application form along with all supporting documents as per the checklist.

   • Make the required payment online, which includes:

   
   

     -> US$100 (OCI reissue fee)

   
   

     -> US$3 (ICWF)

   
   

     -> US$15.90 (VFS service charge)

   
   

     -> Additional fees for optional services like shipping.

5. Submit Your Application

   
   

   • After making the required payment, generate the shipping label and send your complete application package—including the filled application form, all relevant enclosures, and the fee receipt—to the designated VFS India Consular Application Centre that serves the consular jurisdiction where you ordinarily reside, regardless of which Indian Mission/Post/Office issued your original PIO card.

   • You may send the package by mail or submit it in person by appointment, depending on available options. Be sure to keep your receipt and tracking details for future reference.

6. Track Application Status

   
   

   • Use the tracking facility on the VFS Global website to monitor the progress of your application.

Important Note: