Aadhaar Card

Aadhaar Card for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)

Aadhaar is India’s unique 12-digit identification number issued by UIDAI to residents, serving as proof of identity and address for various services. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can also apply for an Aadhaar card to access financial services, government schemes, property-related transactions, and online eKYC processes.

For NRIs, having an Aadhaar card simplifies compliance with legal requirements in India, such as banking, filing income tax returns, and investing in Indian financial markets. With UIDAI’s secure procedures, NRIs can apply for Aadhaar either online or by visiting designated enrollment centers in India. Understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and procedures ensures a smooth and accurate application process.

Eligibility Criteria for NRI Aadhaar Card

NRIs who wish to obtain an Aadhaar card must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Indian Citizenship: Applicants must be Indian citizens, even if they reside abroad.

  2. Temporary or Long-Term Residency in India: Applicants must be physically present in India for enrollment purposes.

  3. Document Verification: Valid proof of identity and address is required, which can include Indian or foreign-issued documents.

  4. Aadhaar for Minors: Children below 5 years can be enrolled with parent/guardian consent, and biometrics are collected once the child turns 5.

  5. Compliance with UIDAI Rules: The applicant must follow UIDAIguidelines for enrollment and document submission.

Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth application and avoids delays or rejection.

How to Apply for an Aadhaar Card for NRI

NRIs can apply for Aadhaar using the following steps:

  1. Locate Aadhaar Enrollment Center: NRIsneed to visit a designated UIDAI enrollment center in India.

  2. Complete Enrollment Form: Fill out the Aadhaar Enrollment Form with personal, demographic, and contact details.

  3. Document Submission: Submit valid identity and address proofs, along with supporting documents.

  4. Biometric Data Collection: Provide fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph at the enrollment center for verification.

  5. Acknowledgment Receipt: Obtain an enrollment acknowledgment slip containing a temporary Enrollment ID (EID) to track the Aadhaar status.

It is important to ensure that all details match official documents to prevent delays in Aadhaar issuance.

Documents Required to Apply for NRI Aadhaar Card

The following documents are necessary for NRI Aadhaar enrollment:

  • Proof of Identity (POI): Passport, OCI card, or foreign government-issued ID.

  • Proof of Address (POA): Indian address proof, such as bank statements, utility bills, or rental agreements.

  • Proof of Date of Birth (DOB): Birth certificate, passport, or school leaving certificate.

  • Proof of Relationship (POR): For minors, documents linking the child to parents may be required.

All documents must be originals or attested copies for verification at the enrollment center.

Things to Keep in Mind about Aadhaar Card for NRIs & Foreigners

NRIs and foreign residents applying for Aadhaar should consider the following:

  • Aadhaar enrollment is optional for NRIs but highly recommended for financial and government-related services.

  • Physical presence in India is required for biometric enrollment.

  • All personal details must match official documents to avoid rejection.

  • Keep the acknowledgment slip safe to track your Aadhaar application.

  • Aadhaar linking may be required for banking, PAN, and eKYC services in India.

  • NRIs can update their address or other details later using Aadhaar Update/Correction procedures.

Being aware of these points ensures a hassle-free Aadhaar enrollment and avoids common mistakes.

Aadhaar Card Form for NRI Minors

Aadhaar can be issued to NRI minors under the following conditions:

  • Children below 5 years: Parents can enroll the child without biometric data. Biometric details are captured when the child turns 5.

  • Children between 5–18 years: Biometric data is collected along with parental consent.

  • Documents Required: Parent/guardian Aadhaar, birth certificate, and proof of relationship.

Proper enrollment of Aadhaar for Child ensures the child has an Aadhaar for banking, school registrations, and other official purposes when needed.

Aadhaar Card For NRI with Foreign Passport

NRIs with a foreign passport can still apply for Aadhaar using:

  • Foreign Passport as POI: Must be valid and recognized.

  • Indian Address Proof: Required for official communication.

  • Biometric Verification: Must be done at the Aadhaar enrollment center.

This enables NRIs with foreign passports to obtain Aadhaar for identity verification, financial transactions, and government services in India.

Aadhaar Card For NRI without Indian Passport

NRIs who do not possess an Indian passport can apply using other valid documents:

  • OCI or PIO Card: Accepted as proof of identity.

  • Other Valid Government-Issued IDs: Can be used as an alternative identity proof.

  • Address Proof in India: Necessary for enrollment, such as utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements.

  • Biometric Verification: Required at the enrollment center.

This ensures that NRIs without an Indian passport can still obtain Aadhaar and use it for all eligible services.

Conclusion

Aadhaar for NRIs provides a secure, legally valid, and widely accepted identity proof that can be used for banking, financial services, property transactions, and government schemes in India. By meeting eligibility criteria, submitting valid documents, and completing biometric verification at an enrollment center, NRIs can obtain Aadhaar efficiently. For minors and NRI residents with or without Indian passports, UIDAI provides specific guidelines to ensure accurate enrollment. Having an Aadhaar card as an NRI simplifies compliance, eases access to services, and ensures secure identity verification for transactions and official purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can NRIs apply for Aadhaar?

Yes, NRIs who are Indian citizens can apply for Aadhaar by visiting designated enrollment centers in India.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for NRIs?

No, it is optional, but it is recommended for banking, taxation, and government services.

What documents are required for NRIs to apply for Aadhaar?

Proof of identity, proof of address in India, date of birth documents, and for minors, proof of relationship to parents.

Can NRI minors get Aadhaar?

Yes, minors under 5 can be enrolled by parents without biometric data, while those between 5–18 years provide biometric data with parental consent.

Can NRIs with foreign passports apply for Aadhaar?

Yes, foreign passports, OCI, or PIO cards can be used as proof of identity along with Indian address proof.

How long does it take for Aadhaar to be issued for NRIs?

It usually takes a few weeks after verification at the enrollment center, depending on document verification and processing.

Can Aadhaar be updated by NRIs?

Yes, NRIs can update address, mobile number, or other details using the Aadhaar Update/Correction process.

Do NRIs need to be physically present in India for enrollment?

Yes, biometric data collection requires physical presence at a UIDAI enrollment center in India.

Can Aadhaar be linked to PAN for NRIs?

Yes, once Aadhaar is obtained, NRIs can link it with PAN for financial and tax purposes.

Is Aadhaar valid for banking and government services for NRIs?

Yes, Aadhaar is legally recognized and accepted for KYC, banking, property transactions, and government services in India.