MEA's OCI Circular Sparks Uncertainty for Goans in Portugal

Recent revisions by MEA regarding OCI card applications for Goans in Portugal create uncertainty, impacting those whose Indian passports were revoked.

Key Points

Revised Circular Raises Hopes: MEA's April 4, 2024, memo hinted at accepting 'revocation orders' as alternative to surrender certificates for OCI.
Corrigendum Adds Uncertainty: April 30, 2024, corrigendum brings uncertainty, stating MHA is still considering revocation certificate acceptance.
Anxiety in Goa: Revocation of passports causes anxiety among Goans as they face obstacles in obtaining OCI cards.
Significance in Goa: Past 18 months see heightened significance after MEA instructed passport revocations, impacting OCI eligibility.
Portuguese Citizenship Option: Portugal offers Goans born before 1961 and descendants citizenship, leading to passport revocations for OCI applicants.
Surrendered Passports Data: Around 10,129 Indian passports surrendered in five years due to obtaining Portuguese citizenship, says Goa CM.
High Court's Directive: Bombay High Court at Goa directs FRRO, MEA, and passport office to consider OCI applications as per April 4 memo.