Dubai Indian consulate extends conversion of PIO to OCI

Dubai - The process is in the full swing and special camps have been formed to make it easier for Dubai residents.

The Consulate-General of India (CGI) has extended the conversion of PIO (Persons of Indian Origin Card) to OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) until June 30.
The process is in the full swing and special camps have been formed to make it easier for Dubai residents. The CGI's initiative - entitled 'Aap Ke Dwar' is being held in different emirates every Saturday.
"We have converted around 1,200 PIOs till now and there are 1,800 more to be converted," said Rahul Srivastava, Consul, Visa, Counsulate-General of India.
"Applicants are advised to complete the formalities on time. After the deadline, a visa will be required to India if the passenger doesn't have an OCI card, and the applicant will be considered as applying for a fresh OCI ,which normally costs Dh1,020."
"But, if they choose to convert it now, there is no fee except the Dh6 that is charged for the Indian Welfare Community Fund (ICWF)," the official added.
Sandeep Chaudhary, Consul, CGI added: "Good days for public are here. Owing to dint of hard work by the consulate staff service duration of all passports have been brought down and uniformed as never before.
Now all passports are being issued within five to eight working days (in clear cases)."
ankita@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE