Person of Indian Origin (PIO) was a category of Indian diaspora recognized by the Indian government. PIO cardholders were individuals who held an Indian passport at any time or whose ancestors held an Indian passport.

The PIO card provided several benefits to its holders, including visa-free travel to India and exemption from reporting to police authorities for stays of up to 180 days. However, the PIO card scheme was discontinued in 2015, and PIO cardholders were eligible to apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.

Most PIO cardholders now hold an OCI card, which provides more benefits and rights than the PIO card, such as lifetime visa-free travel to India, the right to work and study in India, and the right to participate in business and cultural activities in India.

It’s important to note that while PIO cardholders and OCI cardholders are considered non-resident Indians (NRIs), OCI cardholders have more rights and privileges than PIO cardholders. However, they are not considered Indian citizens and do not have all rights and privileges of Indian citizens, such as the right to vote in Indian elections and the right to hold public office.