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Aadhaar Card for Non-resident Indians (NRIs)

Team AckoJan 17, 2024

The Aadhaar Card can be helpful for resident Indians as well as Non-resident Indians. In this article, we'll examine the basics of this essential document, the advantages of having one for NRIs, and the related application process. Read on to learn more about Aadhaar Cards for Non-Resident Indians!

Contents

Can a foreign citizen get an Aadhaar Card in India?
Importance of Aadhaar Card for NRIs
Eligibility criteria for foreign nationals to get an Aadhaar Card in India
What documents are required for an Aadhaar Card for foreigners?
Step-by-step process of how NRIs can apply for Aadhaar Card in India
Other facts to know about Aadhaar Cards for Non-resident Indians
Frequently asked questions

Can a foreign citizen get an Aadhaar Card in India?

Yes, a foreign citizen can get an Aadhaar Card in India, which is a government-issued document that serves as proof of identity and address in India. Foreign citizens, including NRIs, can apply for an Aadhaar Card if they are staying in India for a considerable period of time.

Importance of Aadhaar Card for NRIs

In the following scenarios, Aadhaar for NRIs in India may be a necessity.

Streamlined KYC process: For using various financial services in India, KYC (Know Your Customer) is a must. Having an Aadhaar Card as an NRI can simplify and speed up the process.
Trusted ID proof: Aadhaar Card is one of the most widely accepted forms of identification in India. It's often required for property or banking transactions, and is a prerequisite for certain job opportunities, especially in the government sector.
Income Tax Returns: As per Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act, 1961, it's mandatory to have an Aadhaar Card to file your Income Tax Returns in India. This makes the process much more convenient and efficient.

Eligibility criteria for foreign nationals to get an Aadhaar Card in India

To be eligible for an Aadhaar Card as a foreign national, the following criteria must be met.

Age requirement: You must be above the age of three years.
Indian passport: Possession of a valid, active Indian passport is mandatory.
Proof of residency: You must provide acceptable evidence of your residency in India, such as a rental agreement, utility bill, or bank statement.
Required documents: You should have the necessary paperwork with you. In the following section, we will list the documents that are required.

Note: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the issuer of Aadhaar, may update the eligibility criteria from time to time. It is best to check the UIDAI website for the latest information.

What documents are required for an Aadhaar Card for foreigners?

Here is a list of some of the documents you require to obtain an Aadhaar Card for foreigners in India.

Photo ID Proof
Birth Certificate
An active Indian passport
School Certificate

Step-by-step process of how NRIs can apply for Aadhaar Card in India

Here is a step-by-step guide on how NRIs can apply for an Aadhaar Card in India.

Step 1: Locate a UIDAI-authorised enrolment centre near you. You can do this by browsing for nearby centres on the UIDAI website.
Step 2: Book an appointment and visit the enrollment centre. Carry the relevant ID proof and documentation with you. When you arrive, fill out the Aadhaar enrolment form and submit it with the necessary documentation.
Step 3: Complete biometric scans, including fingerprints and iris scans, which will be saved in the government database for identification purposes.
Step 4: A web camera will be used to take a passport-sized photograph of you. This photograph will eventually be printed on your Aadhaar Card.

After you successfully enrol, you will receive an acknowledgement slip with your enrolment number. You can track the status of your Aadhaar on the UIDAI website using this number. Once your application is processed, you will receive your Aadhaar Card in the mail at the address provided during enrolment.

Other facts to know about Aadhaar Cards for Non-resident Indians

Here are some facts you need to know about Aadhaar for NRIs.

E-Aadhaar: An electronic version of Aadhaar, known as e-Aadhaar, can be used as a valid form of identification in place of a physical copy of the Aadhaar Card.
Non-mandatory: Despite its potential benefits, possessing an Aadhaar Card is not a legal requirement for NRIs under Indian law. It is optional and up to the individual to decide whether to obtain one or not.
Residency status: Having an Aadhaar Card does not automatically grant an NRI the right to reside in India indefinitely. There are other criteria that must be met to obtain residency status.
Bank account linking: Linking your Aadhaar to your bank account is an option, but not a requirement under Indian law. NRIs may choose to link their Aadhaar for ease of financial transactions, but it is not mandatory.

Frequently asked questions

We have addressed some of the most frequently asked questions about Aadhaar Cards for NRIs in this section.

Is it mandatory for NRIs to have an Aadhaar Card?

No, it is not mandatory for NRIs to have an Aadhaar Card.

Do NRIs need to provide their overseas address for Aadhaar Card application?

No, NRIs do not need to provide their overseas address for Aadhaar Card application.

Can NRIs update their Aadhaar Card details?

Yes, NRIs can update their Aadhaar Card details online or by visiting an Aadhaar Enrollment Center in India.

How long does it take for the Aadhaar Card to be delivered to NRIs?

It typically takes 90 days for the Aadhaar Card to be delivered to NRIs after the application has been processed.

Can NRIs use their Aadhaar Card as a form of identity in India?

Yes, NRIs can use their Aadhaar Card as a form of identity in India.

Is it possible to provide an international mobile number in my Aadhaar information?

No, as of now there is no provision to provide an international mobile number as part of Aadhaar information.

Is it mandatory for NRIs to stay in India for 182 days in order to apply for Aadhaar?

No, it is not mandatory for NRIs to stay in India for 182 days in order to apply for Aadhaar. Previously, it was a must. However, according to the 2019 Union Budget, it is no longer a mandatory necessity. As a result, NRIs can apply for an Aadhaar Card at any time.

Can NRIs submit an application for an Aadhaar Card while they are abroad?

No, NRIs cannot submit an application for an Aadhaar Card while they are abroad. They have to be present in India to apply.

Is it necessary to have an Indian address to apply for an NRI Aadhaar Card?

Yes, it is necessary to have an Indian address to apply for an NRI Aadhaar Card.

What is the process for NRIs to include their children in Aadhaar?

To include their children in Aadhaar, NRIs can go to an Aadhaar Enrollment Center in India and fill out the relevant forms and provide the necessary documents. However, please note that both parents' Aadhaar information must be provided to enrol an NRI’s child.

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Disclaimer: The above content is sourced from secondary sources on the internet and is meant for informational purposes only. It is subject to changes.

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