Aadhar Card For NRI – Application, Documents, Latest Updates
Aadhar Card for NRI simplifies essential transactions in India. With the Aadhaar on arrival program, NRIs can now obtain their Aadhaar card using just their valid Indian passport.
Originally designed for Indian residents, the scope of Aadhaar has expanded to include Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide for NRIs seeking to obtain an Aadhaar card, covering application procedures, necessary documents, and recent developments.
NOTE: The guidelines for Aadhaar enrollment apply equally to both NRI (Non-Resident Indian) applicants and OCI cardholders seeking to obtain the Aadhaar card. This article considers any individual residing outside India, regardless of citizenship status, as an NRI for clarity and simplicity, unless stated otherwise.
What Exactly Is An Aadhar Card?
- An Aadhaar card is a unique identification document issued by the Government of India
- The Aadhaar card is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)
- It contains a 12-digit unique identification number known as an Aadhaar number
- Aadhaar cards serve as proof of identity and address
- It contains biometric and demographic information of the cardholder
- It is a reliable form of identification for various government and private-sector services
Understanding Aadhar Card For NRI
For NRIs, obtaining an Aadhaar card is crucial for employment opportunities in the country, especially in the government sector.
Additionally, having an Aadhaar card is necessary for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) under Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act, 1961. This simplifies the entire process of filing income tax returns, making it more convenient.
As an NRI, you may frequently need to present a valid identity card issued by the Government of India to conduct financial transactions. An Aadhaar card is one such recognized proof of identity.
Moreover, NRIs intending to return to India require an Aadhaar card for various legal and financial matters, such as opening bank accounts or renting properties.
Before 2019, under the Aadhaar Act of 2016, only resident Indians were eligible to enroll for an Aadhaar card.
NRIs, both adults and minors, were required to reside in India for at least 182 days before becoming eligible to apply for Aadhaar.
With the introduction of the new Aadhaar Act in July 2019, the Government of India launched the Aadhaar on arrival program.
This amendment allowed NRIs to obtain their Aadhaar cards solely with their valid Indian passports, eliminating the need for the 182-day residency requirement.
Note: Although the 182-day waiting period is no longer applicable to NRIs, OCI cardholders are still required to have an Indian address and reside in India for at least 182 days within twelve months before they can apply for an Aadhaar card.
Process For Enrollment Of Aadhaar Card For OCI/NRI
Here’s the Aadhar card enrollment process:
- Visit any Aadhaar Kendra in India
- Carry your valid Indian Passport
- Complete the Aadhar enrollment form with your details
- It’s mandatory to provide an Email ID for NRIs
- Note that the declaration for NRI enrollment may differ slightly. Make sure to read and sign accordingly on your enrollment form
- Inform the operator that you wish to enroll for Aadhar as an NRI
- Present your Passport as Proof of Identity
- You have the option to use your Passport itself as Proof of Address and Date of Birth proof or submit other valid documents as listed at: https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/valid_documents_list.pdf.
- Undergo the biometric capture process
- Review all details displayed on the screen (in English and the local language) before allowing the operator to submit
- Receive the acknowledgment slip/enrollment slip containing your 14-digit Enrollment ID and Date & Time Stamp. You can track the status of your Aadhaar at: https://resident.uidai.gov.in/check-aadhaar
Aadhar Card For NRI – Eligibility And Document Requirements
NRIs are eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card if they meet the following criteria:
- Have resided in India for 182 days or more in the 12 months preceding the date of Aadhar application
The Documents Required For NRI Applicants For Aadhar Include:
- Proof of Identity: Passport, PAN card, OCI card, or any other government-issued identity document
- Proof of Address: Utility bills, bank statements, rental agreement, or any document containing the applicant’s address
- Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, passport, or any document verifying the applicant’s date of birth
Aadhar Card For NRI – Application Process
As an NRI, if you wish to obtain an Aadhaar for yourself or your minor children, you can apply whenever you return to India.
Simply visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra (service center) to undergo the registration and biometric verification process.
Your valid Indian passport serves as sufficient proof of identity (in fact, it is the only accepted ID proof) for Aadhaar enrollment you can check the complete list before starting the process.
NRIs Can Apply For An Aadhaar Card Using The Following Steps:
Locate Enrollment Center: NRIs can find the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center (Aadhaar Kendra) either online or through the UIDAI website.
Fill Application Form: Obtain the Aadhaar application form from the Aadhar enrolment center or download it from the UIDAI website. Fill in the required details accurately.
Submit Documents: Along with the Aadhar application form, submit the necessary documents as proof of identity, address, and date of birth proof (Carry your valid Indian Passport with you)
Provide An Email: During the Aadhar enrolment process providing an Email ID is mandatory for NRIs
Enroll As NRI: Inform the operator to enroll you in Aadhar as an NRI
Proof of Identity: Present your Passport as Proof of Identity
- You have the option to use your Passport as Proof of Address and Date of Birth or submit other valid documents as listed in https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/valid_documents_list.pdf
Biometric Capture Process: Visit the Aadhar enrolment center in person to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and iris scans
- Verify all the details displayed on the screen (in English and the local language) before allowing the operator to submit
Acknowledgment Slip: Upon successful Aadhar enrollment, an acknowledgment slip containing the enrollment ID will be provided.
Receive the acknowledgment slip/enrollment slip containing your 14-digit Enrollment ID and Date & Time Stamp.
This slip is essential for tracking the status of the Aadhar application. Keep this slip safe for future reference.
Aadhaar Card Generation: After the Aadhar card application is processed, the Aadhaar card will be generated and sent to the registered address within a specified time frame.
You can track the status of your Aadhaar at: https://resident.uidai.gov.in/check-aadhaar
Note: that the declaration for NRI enrollment in Aadhar card differs slightly. Ensure to read and sign accordingly on your Aadhar card enrollment form.
Aadhar Card For NRI – Documents Required
Eligibility and Document Requirements
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) looking to obtain an Aadhaar card, there are specific eligibility criteria and document requirements that must be met. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility: NRIs can apply for an Aadhaar card if they have stayed in India for a cumulative period of 182 days or more within the 12 months immediately preceding the application date.
Documents Required: The documents needed for Aadhaar card application by NRIs include proof of identity (valid Indian passport, PAN card, etc.), proof of address (utility bills, bank statements, etc.), and proof of date of birth (birth certificate, passport, etc.).
Aadhaar Card For OCI Cardholders
OCIs have been added to the category of overseas Indians eligible for Aadhaar Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders can also apply for an Aadhaar card in India.
The process for OCI cardholders is similar to that of NRIs, but there may be slight differences in the documents required. Ensure you have all necessary documentation before proceeding.
Latest Updates And Developments
NRIS must stay informed about any changes or updates related to Aadhaar card application procedures.
The UIDAI regularly updates its policies and guidelines to streamline the Aadhar card enrollment process and enhance security measures.
Recent updates may include:
- Introduction of online Aadhaar services for NRIs to streamline the application process
- Expansion of biometric authentication facilities in Indian missions abroad to facilitate Aadhaar enrollment for NRIs
- Amendments to documentation requirements or procedures to improve accessibility and efficiency for NRIs
NRIs are advised to regularly check the UIDAI website or official communication channels for the latest updates and announcements regarding Aadhaar card enrollment procedures and requirements.
What Is The Process For Aadhaar Enrolment For Children Of NRIs?
The Child Is Under The Age Of 5 (Five):
- A parent or guardian must authenticate on behalf of the child and provide consent for the minor’s enrollment by signing the enrollment form
- If the child is an NRI, it is essential to present the child’s valid Indian passport as Proof of Identity
- If the child resides in India (not an NRI), any acceptable document proving the relationship (refer: https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/valid_documents_list.pdf), like a Birth Certificate, can be presented along with identity proof of the parent/guardian’s like Aadhaar for enrollment purposes
The child Is In The Age Group Between 5 And 18 years:
- A parent or guardian must authenticate on behalf of the child and provide consent for the minor’s enrollment by signing the enrollment form
- If the child is an NRI (NRI children), it is essential to present the child’s valid Indian passport as Proof of Identity
- If the minor is an Indian Resident (not an NRI)
- For resident Indian children, If there is no other valid document in the minor’s name (Indian resident), any valid proof of relationship document (refer: https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/valid_documents_list.pdf), like a Birth Certificate, can be utilized for enrollment under the Head of Family
- If the minor (Indian resident) possesses a document, utilize a valid Proof of Identity (PoI) and Proof of Address (PoA) document (such as a School ID card) in the child’s name for enrollment (refer to: https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/valid_documents_list.pdf)
Conclusion
Obtaining an Aadhaar card as an NRI is a significant step towards establishing a digital identity in India. By following the prescribed procedures and ensuring all necessary documents are in order, NRIs can seamlessly obtain their Aadhaar card and avail themselves of various services offered by the Indian government and private sector entities.
Stay informed, stay connected, and embrace the convenience of Aadhaar in the digital age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need an Aadhaar card?
Yes, it is very useful in India, it is used for:
- Opening Bank Accounts
- Getting a mobile sim card
- Buying and selling properties
Do Indian residents and NRIs have to fill out the same Aadhaar enrollment form?
No, There are separate forms that need to be used for Aadhaar enrollment by resident foreigners and Indian residents.
What is the significance of the Aadhaar card for NRIs?
An Aadhaar card proves beneficial for NRIs intending to return to India, especially for those planning an extended stay. Here are instances illustrating the utility of an NRI Aadhaar card:
- Facilitates expedited KYC procedures for transactions within India
- Serves as widely accepted identification for tasks such as bank account opening and property-related paperwork
- Holds significance for NRIs seeking employment in the country, notably in government roles.
- Essential for Income Tax Return (ITR) filing under Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act, 1961, streamlining the filing process for convenience
Can I give an international mobile number in my Aadhaar details?
No, you cannot give an international mobile number as international numbers are not supported and not accepted by UIDAI
The address in my passport is not updated. I want to give my present address for my Aadhaar application. Is this possible?
Indeed, a valid Indian Passport serves as mandatory Proof of Identity for NRI applicants. Nevertheless, if your address is not updated in your passport and you intend to provide your current address for your UID application, you may submit any supporting documents acceptable to UIDAI as proof of address.
How long does it take to get an Aadhar card for NRIs, OCI cardholders, and other resident foreigners?
It May take up to 90 days
I am an NRI and have an Aadhar card, Can my spouse be enrolled based on my Aadhar and Passport?
Considering your spouse is an NRI:
- In this scenario, a valid Indian Passport of your spouse is required as proof of identity
Considering your spouse is an Indian resident (not an NRI):
- In this scenario, any proof of your relationship document, including your passport can be used for enrollment provided your passport has the name of your spouse
I am an NRI. What address should I fill in my Aadhaar enrollment form?
You must fill in your complete and correct Indian Address
