The Person of Indian Origin Card (PIO CARD) was launched by the Government of India in 1999. The PIO card was intended to make it easier for foreign nationals of Indian origin to enter India with ease and avoid the process of applying for visas every time they wanted to visit. With effect from 15th September 2002, the Government of India has announced a new PIO Card Scheme.

No visa required for visiting India as long as a person has a valid PIO Card.

• No separate “Student Visa” or “Employment Visa” required for admissions in Colleges/Institutions or for taking up employment respectively.

• A PIO Card holder will be exempt from the requirement of registration if his stay on any single visit in India does not exceed 180 days. o In the event of continuous stay in India of the PIO Card holder exceeding 180 days, PIO card holders will have to get themselves registered within 30 days of the expiry of 180 days with the concerned Foreigners Regional Registration Officer / Foreigners Registration Officer.

• Parity with non-resident Indians in respect of facilities available to the latter in economic, financial and educational field.

• Acquisition, holding, transfer and disposal of immovable properties in India except agricultural immovable properties in India accept agricultural/plantation properties.

• Facilities available to children of NRIs for getting admission to educational institutions in India including medical colleges, engineering colleges, Institute of Technology, Institute of Management, etc. under the general categories.

• Facilities available under the various housing scheme of LIC, State Government and other Government Agencies.

• Special counters at the immigration check posts for speedy clearance.

• Any future benefits that would be extended to NRIs would also be available to the PIO Card holders