DGCA Security Clearance

[OneMile]

Hello,

I am a foreign citizen but a Person of Indian Origin (PIO). I understand that I must apply for a DGCA India computer number before applying to write the CPL conversion exam(s). But, the instructions from their website also state that "foreign nationals should submit an attested copy of security clearance
certificate/NOC issued by DGCA along with application.

1) Being a PIO with the right to work in India, would this apply to me? If so,
what is involved in this, and how long does it take to obtain the clearance?
Also, where can I download the form (I can't find it anywhere on the DGCA
website)?

2) Having mentioned this, are pilots employed by airlines in India required to
obtain a 'Airport Entry Pass' from the BCAS? If so, how long does it take to
obtain it?

It seems like everything involving the Indian government is a matter of time! Thanks for you help.

[hpcock]

To summarise

1st, you do not have to have the security clearance done prior to the CPL composite papers. The sec clr, is issued on the basis that you have not been involved in any kind of naughty activities in the past. The papers for the clr have to be issued to the DGCA via your employer, ie yr airline,or via a FTO, before you undertake the various flight tests. Takes approx 6 weeks to issue - bribe inc.

2nd, having a PIO unfortunately does not entitle you to unretricted work in India. This is achieved by having an OCI (Overseas Indian Citizenhip). The PIO is merely a 15 yr visa, which still prohibits you from staying in India for a period of more than 6 mnts.

In closing, come armed with cash to bribe the various people in particular depts. As you rightly pointed out, things do take a long time in India. Give yourself approx 12 - 15 months to see a flight deck

Good Luck


HPC :ok:

[OneMile]

hpcock,

Thanks for your reply, and I appreciate your advice. Happy landings!