Jacqueline Fernandez has received a Delhi court NOC allowing her to apply for renewal of her Indian work visa. The Sri Lankan actor remains involved in a ₹200 crore money-laundering case linked to Sukesh Chandrashekar, while the FRRO will decide her visa request independently.
A Delhi court has granted actor Jacqueline Fernandez a no-objection certificate allowing her to apply for renewal of her employment visa in India while her money-laundering case continues.
The order, dated October 6, 2026, was issued by Additional Sessions Judge Gagandeep Singh after Fernandez sought the clearance required by immigration authorities.
Delhi court clears visa renewal application
Fernandez, a Sri Lankan national who has lived and worked in India since 2009 on an employment visa, told the court that her visa had expired and that the Foreigners Regional Registration Office, or FRRO, would not process the renewal without a court NOC.
Foreign nationals may face different documentation requirements depending on their visa category and legal circumstances. Read our guide on what an FRRO NOC is and when it is required in India.
The court noted that Fernandez remains active in the entertainment industry and has professional commitments in India. It also said her presence is necessary for effective participation in the ongoing trial proceedings.
FRRO will independently decide work visa
The court made clear that its order does not renew Fernandez's visa. Instead, the NOC allows her to submit an application to the appropriate authorities.
The judge directed that the relevant authority consider the request independently under applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Passport was released in February 2025
The court also recorded that Fernandez's passport was released on February 20, 2025, so it could be re-issued through the Sri Lankan Consulate.
Her counsel said the FRRO required formal court clearance because Fernandez is an accused in the pending criminal proceedings.
Money-laundering case continues
Fernandez is facing trial in a money-laundering case linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekar. The case relates to allegations involving about ₹200 crore, with investigators alleging that proceeds from the alleged scheme were used in part to purchase expensive gifts.
A Delhi court framed charges against Fernandez, Chandrashekar and other accused earlier in 2026. Fernandez has contested the allegations against her.
A pending court case does not always automatically prevent a foreign national from seeking visa renewal, but additional clearance may be required. Read how Indian work visa renewal can work during a criminal case.
The October 6 order does not determine Fernandez's guilt or innocence or resolve the criminal case. It removes a procedural requirement for her visa application, leaving the FRRO and other relevant authorities to decide whether her employment visa should be renewed.
