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NRI Visiting Relatives in India: Travel Options Guide

Updated on Jan 21, 2026 | Online Indian Visa

Many NRIs travel to India after spending a long time overseas. While some of them still hold an Indian citizenship and passport, many others have married and settled overseas or are descendants of NRIs' existing family in India. Thus, it is often a question regarding the Visa and documentation that an NRI visiting relatives in India might need.

If you still hold an Indian passport or have a valid OCI card, you need not apply for a Visa when visiting India.

Living abroad for a job can make one feel homesick. This is why many NRIs travel to India to touch roots with their home. However, NRIs are not the only Indian origin people who travel to India. PIO and OCI cardholders are another group of Indians and Indian descendants who often visit their family, still residing in India. If you are an NRI with an Indian passport or an OCI cardholder, you need not apply for a visa.

However, if you do not have an Indian passport or an OCI card, you will have to fill in the Indian visa online form.

Understanding Your Status as an NRI

People of Indian origin who hold an Indian passport and citizenship but reside abroad for a specified period qualify as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). However, this is not the same as Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO).

Definition of NRI (Based on Residency and Citizenship)

To qualify as an NRI, a person needs to be of Indian Origin but reside abroad in a foreign land. Further, they need to meet at least one of the following requirements:

  • Spent less than 182 days in Indian in the last financial year.
  • Left the nation to work in a foreign country.
  • Left India to pursue business work or vocational activities abroad.
  • Residing and showing intent to stay abroad for a certain period.

Difference Between NRIs, PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin), and OCIs (Overseas Citizens of India)

Here’s how you can tell the difference between an NRI, a PIO, and an OCI:

NRI

  • Definition: An Indian citizen who lives outside the country
  • Eligibility: One who has stayed in India for less than 182 days in the last year due to a job, business, or other reasons.
  • Where to Apply: -
  • Benefits: Same as that of an Indian Citizen
  • Do They Need a Visa: No
  • Registration Requirements: No

PIO

  • Definition: A person who holds a foreign citizenship/ passport, but their ancestors were Indian
  • Eligibility: -
  • Where to Apply: -
  • Benefits: -
  • Do They Need a Visa: Yes
  • Registration Requirements: For stays more than 180 days

OCI

  • Definition: A person registered under section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955*
  • Eligibility: An Indian citizen, descendant of an Indian citizen, the minor child of an Indian citizen, or spouse of an NRI/OCI
  • Where to Apply: Government of Inia, OCI Services
  • Benefits: Multi-entry lifelong Visa
  • Do They Need a Visa: No (can use their OCI card)

Registration Requirements: No

* Section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955 states that the OCI card may be granted to anyone who is currently a foreign citizen but was or was eligible for citizenship post 26.1.1950, was integrated into India post-independence, is a minor child of any such person, is a minor with at least one parent who is a citizen of India, is a foreign spouse or a foreign spouse of an OCI cardholder.

Travel Options Based on Your Heritage Status

NRIs who travel to India do not need to apply for a visa. However, you may need alternate documentation based on your heritage status.

OCI Card Holders

All Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders are eligible for lifetime visa-free travel to India. However, you are not allowed to vote, hold government jobs, or take up research work in the country. To be eligible for OCI, you need to meet one of the following criteria:

  • Have been a citizen on or after 26.01.1950.
  • Eligible to be a citizen on or after 26.01.1950.
  • Belonged to a territory that was absorbed into India.
  • Is a descendant of any such citizen.
  • Is a minor descendant (aged below 18)of any such citizen.
  • A minor with at least one parent with an Indian citizenship.
  • A spouse of an NRI or OCI registered under section 7A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, and married for at least 2 years before the registration.

PIO Card (Now Merged with OCI)

As of 2015, PIO and OCI have been merged, and the last date of validity for PIO cards is December 2025. However, if you do hold an old PIO card, it is best to get it converted. Those who hold a valid PIO card can apply with the Government of India (Online OCI Services) for a new OCI card.

People who do not have a valid OCI card will have to file the India Visa application to visit India.

Indian Tourist Visa

Applying via the Indian Visa Online Form is not a necessity if you are an NRI with an Indian Visa or a person holding an OCI card. However, if you are a PIO who does not have an OCI card, you will need a visa as an NRI visiting relatives in India.

For your Indian Visa form application, you will need the following:

  • A Valid Passport
  • Proof of finances
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Valid payment method
  • Itinerary

After you apply with the Indian Visa Online Form, you will receive the approved visa within 3-5 business days.

Documents Required for Family Visit Visa

For better understanding, we have tabulated the documents you may need and the purpose they serve:

Passport (with a minimum of 6 months' validity)

  • Purpose: Identity and nationality

Proof of Indian origin

  • Purpose: For heritage-based visa eligibility

Relationship proof (birth certificate, marriage certificate)

  • Purpose: Justifying family ties

Visa application form

  • Purpose: Required for e-visa submission

OCI/PIO card (if applicable)

  • Purpose: To enjoy NRI benefits

Proof of Finances

  • Purpose: To support your travel expenses

Special Considerations When Visiting India

Alongside the above, you may need to provide the following documents:

COVID-19 and Health Regulations (If Applicable)

If you are visiting from a country that is presently suffering from an epidemic or medical crisis, you may be asked for a medical fitness certificate. Further, post-COVID-19, every traveller needs to get tested for COVID before they travel.

Local Registration Requirements (For Long-term Stays)

Only foreigners need to complete registration with the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) for stays that exceed 180 days. For NRIs, there is no such requirement. However, if you are a PIO (Person of Indian Origin) cardholder, you will be subject to the same local registration rules as a foreigner.

Carrying Medical/Travel Insurance

This is advised to all travellers, whether they are visiting India or elsewhere. Having travel insurance helps if you suddenly lose your luggage, have a flight cancellation, or a similar problem. Similarly, having medical insurance helps get emergency medical care in India.

Customs Rules

When entering the country, NRIs can bring USD 5000 worth of foreign cash, USD 10000 (in foreign cash + traveller cheques), or INR 25000 in cash. Beyond this, you will have to submit a Currency Declaration Form at the airport for Customs.

Cultural Etiquette & Family Traditions to Prepare For

Among NRIs who travel to India, it is seen that staying in a foreign land for a long time may lead to losing touch with their roots. Here are a few basics that can help you during your visit to India:

Family Customs and Expectations

Modesty is at the heart of Indian culture, and that is exactly how you should dress and behave. Greet your elders with respect. Be sure to make time to visit all your close family, joining them for a meal or two.

Festive Seasons and Religious Events to Consider

Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja, Eid, and Ganesh Chaturthi are some of the festivals when many travel home to spend time with family and friends. You may plan a visit during the festivals to share the joys with your family. However, flights can be expensive for last-minute bookings during the festivals, so it is best to book your flights in advance.

Language Tips and Regional Nuances

As an NRI, you will be familiar with Indian languages, especially your mother tongue (native language). Speaking in your mother tongue instead of English or a foreign language will help you communicate better with the locals.

Tips for a Smooth Family Visit in India

Now that you know all about the rules, here are a few tips that you can keep in mind:

  • Book the tickets around the non-peak seasons for better prices.
  • Stay connected by getting a local SIM card and apps.
  • Get gifts for the relatives when visiting.
  • Show respect for the elderly and family dynamics.
  • Plan trips to the nearby sightseeing locations and plan some quality time with your family.

Reconnecting With Your Family: Visiting India As An NRI

NRI visiting relatives in India is a common occurrence, with many living abroad for their work. For NRIs and OCI cardholders, there are several flexible travel options if they plan to visit their family. Plan ahead with the right documents, set an itinerary, and get set for your trip to India.

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