PANAJI
In a continuing trend driven by an aspiration for better livelihoods, hundreds of Goans are surrendering their Indian passports each year in favour of Portuguese nationality.
Data provided by the Regional Passport Office (RPO) reveals that, on average, nearly 10 to 15 Goans apply daily at the Panaji RPO to surrender their Indian passports. On some days, the number goes up to 25.
According to the RPO, the bulk of applicants hail from South Goa and belong to the minority community, confirming a demographic trend that has remained consistent over the years.
“Nearly 10-15 Goans apply daily at the RPO in Panaji to surrender their Indian citizenship. On some days, the number rises to 20-25. A majority of those surrendering citizenship are from South Goa and belong to the minority community,” the head of the Goa Passport Office Nijo Varghese told The Goan.
The numbers, though consistent, are not surprising. The Goa connection to Portugal is rooted in history as it was a Portuguese colony until 1961, and this legacy has long allowed generations of Goans to apply for Portuguese nationality through birth records or ancestral links.
Portuguese passports come with access to the European Union job market and residence rights across the Schengen area, a prospect that remains alluring to many.
In 2022, a notification by the Ministry of External Affairs created anxiety among those holding dual nationality or planning to surrender their Indian citizenship. A widespread confusion prevailed over whether Goans who had already lost Indian citizenship could still avail of the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) facility.
Three years on, the apprehensions have largely eased. As the Ministry ensured that Goa’s unique historical context is respected, these are no longer a barrier to obtaining OCI cards. Interestingly, no other state enjoys this special consideration.
“There is no longer any apprehension regarding the 2022 notification. Even those (Goans) whose Indian passports have been revoked are now obtaining OCI cards without any difficulty,” Varghese said. On average, four to five Indian passports are revoked daily at the Panaji office.
The circular dated November 30, 2022 clearly stated that those persons holding foreign nationality and attempting to renew their Indian passport will face revocation (of their passports) under Section 10 (3) (b) of the Passport Act of 1967.
Meanwhile, the RPO has also issued a caution against relying on agents for surrendering Indian passports. The IIS officer stated that agents often charge as much as Rs 1,500 for applications that cost only Rs 500 when processed through the official online portal.
“The process is digital and seamless. We urge citizens to use the Common Service Centres (CSCs) available across Goa,” he said.
In a separate development, the Panaji RPO currently releases around 350 appointments daily, which also include Police Clearance Certificate applications and other services.
