OCI or PIO

L

linuxrox

Registered Users (C)
Did anyone in the forum debate whether they should go for OCI or PIO ?
The reason I ask - would it raise a flag if we get a OCI (which has the word overseas citizen) if I were to apply for secret clearance jobs ?
What are the dis-advantages of having a PIO from India perspective ?
 
There is no disadvantage of OCI w.r.t. clearance jobs unless you are trying for the highest level of clearance (TS/SCI). At this high level, having any long term Indian visa (OCI or PIO) might come under more scrutiny. US government does not consider OCI as a dual citizenship and this fact is clarified by the State Dept.

PIO is more expensive upfront, needs to be renewed after 15 years. For stays longer than 6 months, registration with FRRO is required. PIO is issued at the consulate and is usually much quicker.
OCI is cheaper upfront, is issued for life and renewal (whenever necessary) costs only $25. FRRO registration is not required for any length of stay.
OCI is issued in New Delhi and takes longer.
 
Thanks nkm. So it looks like whether OCI or PIO, it makes a difference of diddly squat w.r.t clearance.
Even though it might take longer, OCI looks better.
Question being - I get into the Q for OCI (damn these Q's - its now 7 years that I am in one or the other of them) and I suddenly need to go to India - I can apply for a visa right ?
 
linuxrox said:
Thanks nkm. So it looks like whether OCI or PIO, it makes a difference of diddly squat w.r.t clearance.
Even though it might take longer, OCI looks better.
Question being - I get into the Q for OCI (damn these Q's - its now 7 years that I am in one or the other of them) and I suddenly need to go to India - I can apply for a visa right ?
Click to expand...

Yes, you can apply for a regular visa if your OCI is pending and you have to make an emergency trip to India. Keep in mind all the mess created by the requirement of obtaining a renunciation certificate which applies to all Indian visas - and OCI/PIO.
 
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