A Delhi court has granted actress Jacqueline Fernandez a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to apply for the renewal of her work visa. The order, dated October 6, was passed by Additional Sessions Judge Gagandeep Singh. The ruling does not decide the underlying case against her. It addresses a practical hurdle in her ability to keep working in India.
The court noted that Fernandez is a Sri Lankan citizen who has been living in India on an employment visa since 2009, and that the visa has expired. Considering her application, it observed that she is actively working in the entertainment industry and has several professional commitments in India. The court also recorded that her presence is necessary to attend the ongoing hearings in the case.
The Passport and FRRO Issue
According to the order, Fernandez had released her passport on February 20, 2025, for visa renewal through the Sri Lankan Consulate. Her counsel told the court that the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) is not renewing work visas without an NOC from the court. That submission was the basis for her request.
What the Order Actually Says
Disposing of the application, the judge granted Fernandez an NOC to apply for renewal of her visa in accordance with the law. The order states that the relevant authorities will independently consider the matter under the applicable law, rules, circulars and bye-laws. In other words, the court has removed one obstacle but has not guaranteed that the visa will be renewed.
The Background of the Case
In June, the court framed charges against Fernandez, alleged fraudster Sukesh Chandrashekhar and 15 others in a ₹200 crore money-laundering case. Framing of charges means the case will proceed to trial. It is not a finding of guilt, and the proceedings are ongoing.
Why It Matters
For a Sri Lankan national whose career is based in India, a valid work visa is essential to take up projects. The order lets her seek renewal while the trial continues, and the court's emphasis on her need to attend hearings shows how closely her visa status is tied to the case. The next step will be the response of the visa authorities.
