Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2026 have been notified, tightening passport rules for minor children and overhauling OCI procedures. The updated framework bans minors from holding two passports, moves OCI registration to a fully digital process with e OCI cards, and details electronic renunciation or cancellation steps. It also enables biometric data use to speed immigration and improve digital record-keeping.
India has revised its OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) framework, expanding eligibility to include fifth and sixth-generation Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka. The update also removes the six-month waiting period after arrival for OCI applications. At the same time, stricter compliance is being introduced, including a fine if applicants fail to update passport details on time to improve monitoring and streamline processing.
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OCI service fees change from April 1, 2026, with fresh applications now costing USD 275 for those applying abroad and Rs 15,000 for applications within India. Re-issuance and duplicate OCI cards also see revised charges, and payment options depend on where you apply. If you get a new passport, you must update OCI within three months or face a $25 penalty.
India’s Trusted Traveller Programme is now live at 13 airports, giving eligible Indian citizens and OCI cardholders access to automated e-gates. The free service uses biometric verification on both departure and arrival to speed up immigration clearance. Officials say it will cut long queues and improve passenger flow for frequent flyers and outbound/inbound travelers.
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