42. Are OCI holders considered to be Indian Nationals
Question: Sir, Is an OCI card holder eligible to be appointed as an Honorary Consul General of a particular country? As per the Protocol Hand book issued by MEA, pg. 98, “The candidate proposed for appointment as HCG will always be an Indian national.” Is an OCI to be deemed Indian National? Does the post of HCG come within the restrictions of employment in a public office applicable to an OCI? I will be obliged if you could shed some light on this. Regards, S.Banerjee Answer: Indian national would refer to a citizen of India. OCI holders are not citizens of India. OCI has often been mis-characterized as "dual nationality" or "dual citizenship." However, a person who holds an OCI Card in reality is granted an Indian lifelong visa, not Indian citizenship. OCI holders are restricted from government service with the government of India. There is nothing to stop them from accepting employment with foreign governments.
NRI - OCI - PIO Guide & Information
42. Are OCI holders considered to
be Indian Nationals
Question: Sir, Is an OCI card holder eligible to be appointed as an Honorary Consul General of a particular country? As per the Protocol Hand book issued by MEA, pg. 98, “The candidate proposed for appointment as HCG will always be an Indian national.” Is an OCI to be deemed Indian National? Does the post of HCG come within the restrictions of employment in a public office applicable to an OCI? I will be obliged if you could shed some light on this. Regards, S.Banerjee Answer: Indian national would refer to a citizen of India. OCI holders are not citizens of India. OCI has often been mis-characterized as "dual nationality" or "dual citizenship." However, a person who holds an OCI Card in reality is granted an Indian lifelong visa, not Indian citizenship. OCI holders are restricted from government service with the government of India. There is nothing to stop them from accepting employment with foreign governments.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general knowledge only and should not be
deemed to be professional advice. For professional advice kindly consult a professional
accountant, immigration advisor or the Indian consulate. Rules and regulations do
change from time to time. Please note that in case of any variation between what has
been stated on this website and the relevant Act, Rules, Regulations, Policy Statements
etc. the latter shall prevail.
NriInformation FAQ
Read Disclaimer at bottom of page
