Aadhaar card for NRIs: Eligibility and steps to apply

Aadhaar, introduced in 2009 by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has become the cornerstone of identity verification for Indian residents. While it is a crucial tool for residents to access government services, NRIs often find themselves puzzled about its relevance for them. Whether you are managing property in India, dealing with taxes, or navigating financial services, you might have encountered the term Aadhaar and wondered if it's necessary for you as an NRI.

In this article, we’ll clarify whether NRIs can and should apply for an Aadhaar card, the process involved, and the potential benefits it offers for your transactions and services in India.

Are you eligible for an Aadhaar card for NRIs?
 

NRIs can apply for an Aadhaar card under specific conditions. Recent updates have simplified the process, making it more accessible. Here’s what you need to know –

1. Having an Indian passport – As per the latest rules, an NRI's valid Indian passport is the only document required for both Proof of Identity (PoI) and Proof of Address (PoA). No additional documents are needed.
   
   
2. Residency requirement removed – Previously, NRIs were required to reside in India for at least 182 days before applying for an Aadhaar card. This rule was officially removed in 2019, allowing NRIs to apply immediately upon arrival in India.
   
   
3. Birth certificate mandatory for newborns – A birth certificate is now mandatory for NRIs born on or after 1 January 2023.
   
   
4. Physical presence is necessary – Unlike several government services that allow online applications, Aadhaar enrollment requires NRIs to visit any Aadhaar Enrolment Centre in India for biometric verification.
   
   
5. Having an Indian address is not always mandatory – If the passport contains an Indian address, additional address proof is not required. However, if it doesn’t, NRIs must provide an alternative PoA from the UIDAI’s accepted list.

These updates have simplified the process, making it easier for NRIs to obtain an Aadhaar card with minimal hassle.

The step-by-step Aadhaar card application process for NRIs
 

To apply for an Aadhaar card for NRIs, you must first select the correct form based on proof of your address.

1. NRIs with an Indian address must fill out Form 1
2. Those with an overseas address must fill out Form 2
3. If you are applying for an Aadhaar card for a child, you must fill out Forms 3 to 6, depending on the child’s age and whether they have an Indian or overseas address

Once you have identified the correct forms, here are the steps to apply for an Aadhaar card as an NRI:

1. Use the Bhuvan Aadhaar Portal to locate and visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre in India and submit the enrolment form along with valid supporting documents. You can also download the form by visiting the UIDAI website
2. Provide mandatory demographic details (name, date of birth, gender, address, and email) and optional details (mobile number)
3. Submit your valid Indian passport (mandatory) and proof of address (if different from the passport)
4. Complete biometric verification at the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre, including a photograph, fingerprints (all ten fingers), and iris scan (both eyes)
5. You will receive an acknowledgement slip along with your original documents, and the Aadhaar number will be issued within 60 to 90 days

Common myths about Aadhaar cards for NRIs
 

Confusion when applying for Aadhaar can lead to mistakes, causing delays. Here’s the reality behind common myths –

1. Myth – The same rules apply for an NRI and an individual with OCI status to get an Aadhaar card
   
   Fact – NRIs and OCIs have different Aadhaar eligibility rules. An Aadhaar card for OCI is only available to holders who have lived in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months. NRIs can apply immediately, while OCIs must meet the residency condition.
   
   
2. Myth – Aadhaar is mandatory for NRIs who want to open a bank account or invest in India.
   
   Fact – Aadhaar is not mandatory for NRI bank accounts, investments, or property purchases. Some institutions may request it for KYC, but other documents (passport or PAN Card) are usually sufficient.
   
   
3. Myth – Aadhaar is compulsory for all NRIs filing taxes in India.
   
   Fact – Only NRIs earning taxable income in India may need an Aadhaar while filing taxes. If you don’t have taxable income in India, Aadhaar is not required to comply with taxation laws.
   
   
4. Myth – NRIs can apply for Aadhaar online from abroad.
   
   Fact – Aadhaar must be obtained in person at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre in India. No online application process exists for NRIs.
   
   
5. Myth – Any Indian passport is enough for an Aadhaar application.
   
   Fact – While an Indian passport is mandatory, it must be valid and match your application details. Expired passports or mismatched information can lead to rejections.

By understanding the rules, you can avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions.

Benefits of Aadhaar for NRIs
 

While Aadhaar is not mandatory for NRIs, it offers several advantages –

1. Credible identity – Aadhaar empowers NRIs with a widely trusted and easily verifiable identity in India.
   
   
2. Easier financial transactions – Many banks and investment platforms prefer Aadhaar for KYC verification, making transactions smoother.
   
   
3. Tax and compliance convenience – While a PAN card is required for taxation, Aadhaar can serve as a secondary identity proof for NRIs filing taxes in India.
   
   
4. Direct benefit transfers – Aadhaar facilitates direct benefit transfers for NRIs who are eligible for certain government schemes, ensuring that subsidies or other entitlements reach them without intermediaries.
   
   
5. Property and real estate transactions – Many state governments prefer Aadhaar-linked verification for land records and property registrations.
   
   
6. Ease in availing public services – Whether you are getting a driver’s license in India or accessing healthcare facilities during visits, an Aadhaar card for NRIs streamlines the process by serving as a universally accepted identity proof.

Conclusion
 

While an Aadhaar card for NRIs is not mandatory, it can help streamline banking, investments, and property transactions in India. However, NRIs should be prepared to provide additional documents for verification, depending on the service. It is advisable to regularly check the UIDAI website as well as other official sources for the latest updates and requirements.