India extends OCI eligibility to sixth generation of Indian-origin Sri Lankans

Colombo, April 20 - In what appears to be a major bonanza for Sri Lankan Tamils of Indian origin, India has extended eligibility for the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card to the fifth and sixth generations.

The decision was announced during the visit of Indian Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan.

Addressing a press conference in Colombo, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the extension marks a shift from the previous policy, which limited OCI eligibility to the fourth generation.

OCI cardholders can travel to India without a visa and are permitted to engage in business and pursue education.

Misri noted that the expanded eligibility would particularly benefit the Indian-origin Tamil community in Sri Lanka.

The Vice President also announced a simplification of the application process. Earlier, applicants were required to submit extensive documentation. Under the revised system, OCI cards will be issued based on documents that, in many cases, are already provided by the Sri Lankan government.