No visa required for Indians with PIO card

Advani said the fee for the card, which will have a validity of 20 years, would be US $1000. He also claimed that 2,34,556 people of Indian origin in various countries have shown interest in the card, which would be made available to them within two months after having applied for it.

Advani said the PIO card holders will be entitled to get their children admitted in educational institutions under general category quota for Non Resident Indians (NRIs). They can become members of various housing schemes, Life Insurance Corporation and otherGovernment agencies.

The Government is entitled to cancel the card if it is proved that it was obtained by fraudulent means or false representation. The card can be also withdrawn if it is proved that the holder was involved in terrorist activities or smuggling of narcotics, arms and ammunition.

On why the Government did not give dual citizenship to people of Indian origin, the Minister said there are certain reservations on this issue. “The dual citizenship scheme is not prevalent in many countries. It requires a constitutional amendment. The Bharatiya Janata Party is the only political party which favoured dual citizenship for the PIO,” said the Home Minister.

Advani said all future benefits being extended to NRIs would also be made available to the PIO card holders. However, they shall not enjoy political rights in India.

He said the Government would take necessary steps to prevent the misuse of the card by terrorists and undesirable elements. “If the credentials of any person are dubious,he/she will not be granted the card.”

Advani said the PIO card is aimed at making “the journey back to roots simpler, easier, flexible and absolutely hassle-free.” The card holders are not required to register with the foreign registration officer if the stay does not exceed 180 days. They will be entitled to acquisition, holding, transfer and disposal of immovable properties except of agricultural properties, he added.