Context: The Union Home Ministry notified the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introducing electronic Overseas Citizen of India (e-OCI) cards, fully online applications, and stricter norms on dual passports for minors. Digital Transformation of OCI System Introduction of electronic OCI (e-OCI) cards alongside physical cards. Shift to a fully online application process. Elimination of duplicate physical paperwork. Creation of a centralised digital registry of OCI holders. Biometric Integration Applicants must consent to sharing biometric data. Enables integration with fast-track immigration programmes. May allow automatic future enrolment. Significance Promotes paperless governance and ease of doing processes. Enhances efficiency, transparency, and data management. Strengthens immigration facilitation and regulatory oversight. Addresses legal gaps related to dual nationality in minors.
