Holding Two Passports? New Citizenship Rules 2026 Bring Strict Compliance Requirements

The Ministry of Home Affairs has recently issued a notification revising the Citizenship Rules, 2009. The new rule will be known as the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules 2026. The update introduces digital Overseas Citizen of India (e-OCI) cards and tightens regulations regarding dual passport situations for minors.

What has changed?

According to the new rule, a child cannot hold an Indian passport and a passport from any other country at the same time.

To apply for OCI registration under section 7A, you must fill out Form XXVIII online through the official website (https://ociservices.gov.in).

A person registered as an OCI cardholder can receive either a physical OCI card or an electronic version (e-OCI).

MHA stated that “The issuing authority will also maintain a digital record of all OCI cardholders instead of relying on manual records”.

The revised provisions for renunciation (Rule 34) and cancellation (Rule 35) have now been shifted to a fully online system. OCI cardholders are required to file Form XXXI online and, where relevant, return their physical cards. Once it gets processed, you will receive an electronic acknowledgement in Form XXXII. In case you fail to comply with the cancellation requirements, your OCI card may be considered invalid.

The new provision allows biometric data collected during OCI registration to be used for smoother immigration processing later. Applicants must consent to their biometrics being used for programmes like Fast Track Immigration or for automatic enrolment in similar future systems.

For more information, refer to the official notification: