Aadhaar Card for NRIs

The Aadhaar Card is one of the most important identity documents in India. It is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to indian residents and NRIs. It contains a 12-digit unique identification number linked to biometric and demographic data. Both indian residents and the NRIs can apply for it. It offers various benefits to make their stay in India much more convenient.

If you're an NRI looking to apply for Aadhaar, this blog offers a complete guide on Aadhaar for NRIs. It will also teach you how to apply, the required documents, and whether you can apply for Aadhaar outside India.

What is Aadhaar for NRIs?

Aadhaar for NRI refers to the Aadhaar Card issued to eligible Non-Resident Indians. Aadhar for NRIs is similar to the Aadhar for indian residents. It also contains a 12-digit number linked to the biometric (fingerprints, iris scans) and demographic (name, address, date of birth) data. It serves as key proof of identity and address, allowing NRIs to:

• Access government services and subsidies (e.g., LPG subsidies, scholarships).
• Complete KYC for banking, telecom, and financial services in India.
• Link it to the PAN card to file tax or make high-value transactions.
• They can also make property transactions or investments in India using Aadhaar.

The NRI Aadhaar Card is very useful for NRIs who spend a few months in India. It has a slightly different application process instead that of an Aadhaar for indian residents. It can make their stay in India much more convenient by working as a key identification document.

Eligibility for Aadhaar Card for NRIs

According to UIDAI guidelines, Aadhaar for NRI is available for the following individuals:

• Reside in India for 182 Days or More: Any NRI can apply for Aadhaar, provided that he must have lived in India for 182 days or more in the previous 12 months. This rule applies to both Indian citizens living abroad and foreign nationals with valid Indian visas.
• Valid Documentation: If the NRIs have documents to authenticate their identity, address, and date of birth, such as a passport and other similar documents.
• Are Physically Present in India: he and she must be present in India at the time of application for Biometric data collection (fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs) by visiting an Aadhaar Enrollment Centre in India.

Note: It is impossible to apply for Aadhaar outside India because it requires in-person biometric authentication.

Benefits of Aadhaar for NRIs

Getting an NRI Aadhaar Card can benefit NRIs in several ways:

• Seamless Services: they can complete KYC easily by just using their adhaar for opening bank accounts, purchasing SIM cards, or making investments in India.
• Tax and Financial Compliance: It is mandatory in inda to link aadhar with PAN card, to file income tax returns, and make high-value transactions.
• Government Benefits: They can also benefit form subsidies, pensions, or schemes for NRIs with Indian residency.
• Property and Legal Transactions: use it while purchasing property, rentals, or during legal processes as ey identity verification document.
• Convenience: It works as a universally accepted proof of identity and address across India.

How NRIs Can Apply for an Aadhaar Card

The process for applying for an NRI Aadhaar Card is similar to that for Indian residents. But it comes with some additional considerations for documentation and residency proof. Here is a step-by-step process for NRIs to apply for Aadhar card:

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Verify Eligibility

• Check your eligibility by confirming that you've resided in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months.
• Check if you have all the necessary documents (mentioned below).

2. Locate an Aadhaar Enrollment Centre

• Visit the UIDAI website (myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in) or call 1947 to find an Enrollment Centre in India.
• Post offices, banks, and government offices are some of the most common locations.

Note: To apply for Aadhar biometric data collection is mandatory by visiting an Enrollment Centre in India. So it won't be possible to apply for Aadhaar outside India.

3. Book an Appointment (Optional)

• Use the UIDAI portal to book an appointment at an Enrollment Centre to reduce waiting times.
• Select your city, centre, and preferred date/time, then confirm by submitting the OTP sent to your mobile number.

4. Download or Collect the Enrollment Form

• Download the Aadhaar Enrollment Form from the UIDAI website or obtain it at the Enrollment Centre.
• Fill in details such as:
  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Indian address (temporary or permanent)
  • Mobile number (optional, but recommended for OTPs)
  • Email (optional)

5. Gather Required Documents

NRIs must provide the following documents to verify identity, address, and date of birth. Here is the list of acceptable documents:

• Proof of Identity:
  • Passport (mandatory for NRIs, as it verifies NRI status).
  • PAN Card, Voter ID, or Driving License (if available).
• Proof of Address:
  • Indian address proof (e.g., utility bill, rent agreement, or bank statement).
  • A hotel bill, employer’s certificate, or host’s address proof (with consent) is required if you are residing temporarily in India.
  • For NRIs who do not have an Indian address, a foreign address (e.g., from a utility bill or residence permit) may be accepted, but an Indian address is preferred.
• Proof of Date of Birth:
  • Passport (preferred).
  • Birth certificate or SSLC certificate.
• Photograph:
  • Optional, as photographs are taken at the Enrollment Centre.

Special Cases

• If standard documents are unavailable, NRIs can use an introducer (e.g., a Gazetted Officer or employer) or a Head of Family certification to verify identity and address.
• Foreign nationals must provide a valid Indian visa or residence permit showing 182+ days of stay.

6. Visit the Enrollment Centre

• Submit the filled Enrollment Form and original documents (with photocopies).
• Then the operator will:
  • Verify your documents.
  • Capture biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph).
  • Link your mobile number (if provided) for OTP-based services.

7. Receive Acknowledgment Slip

• You’ll receive an acknowledgment slip with a 28-digit Enrollment ID (EID).
• Use the EID to track your application status on the UIDAI website.

8. Await Aadhaar Delivery

• Your NRI Aadhaar Card will be generated within 60-90 days.
• You'll receive an SMS with a link to download your e-Aadhar Card.
• The physical card will be mailed to your registered Indian address (or foreign address, if specified).

Documents Required for Aadhaar for NRIs

Conclusion

Applying for aadhaar card is the best thing you can do if you're an Indian citizen living abroad. Aadhaar for NRI can simplify many of your financial, legal, and administrative dealings in India. You can simple apply for it by part online and part offline method. To apply for Aadhaar card, book an appointment to the aadhhaar enrollment centre and go their to verify your biometric details such as fingerprints and others.