Aadhar Card for NRIs: Everything You Need to Know

 The Aadhar card has become a critical identification document for Indian residents, enabling access to a wide range of services, including banking, taxation, and welfare schemes. While its relevance for Indian citizens is well-established, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) often wonder whether they are eligible for an Aadhar card and how they can obtain one. This guide provides clarity on the process, eligibility, and benefits of the Aadhar card for NRIs.

Eligibility for Aadhar Card for NRIs

The Indian government has made it clear that NRIs are eligible to apply for an aadhar card for nri​ if they meet specific conditions. Here are the key points to consider:

1. Resident Criteria:

   • According to the Aadhar Act, 2016, an individual must reside in India for at least 182 days in the 12 months preceding the application date to be considered eligible as a "resident."

2. NRIs Not Meeting the Resident Criteria:

   • In 2019, the government amended the rules to allow NRIs holding valid Indian passports to apply for an Aadhar card without meeting the 182-day residency requirement. This amendment simplifies the process for NRIs who visit India for short durations.

Documents Required for NRIs

To apply for an Aadhar card, NRIs need to provide specific documents. These include:

1. Proof of Identity:

   • Indian passport (mandatory for NRIs).

2. Proof of Address:

   • Indian address proof (if available) or overseas address proof with proper validation.

3. Proof of Date of Birth:

   • Passport serves as valid proof of date of birth.

4. Biometric Data:

   • NRIs must provide their fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph during the application process.

Steps to Apply for an Aadhar Card as an NRI

Follow these steps to apply for an Aadhar card:

1. Locate an Enrollment Center:

   • Visit the official UIDAI website (https://uidai.gov.in/) to find the nearest Aadhar enrollment center.

2. Book an Appointment:

   • Many centers now allow online appointment booking to save time.

3. Submit Documents:

   • Carry your Indian passport and other required documents to the center.

4. Biometric and Demographic Data:

   • Provide your biometric details (fingerprints, iris scan) and demographic information, such as name, date of birth, and address.

5. Acknowledge Receipt:

   • After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment slip containing a unique enrollment ID to track your application status.

6. Wait for Processing:

   • The Aadhar card is usually processed within 90 days. Once generated, it can be downloaded online.

Benefits of Aadhar Card for NRIs

An Aadhar card offers several benefits to NRIs, including:

1. Ease of Tax Filing:

   • NRIs with an Aadhar card can link it to their PAN (Permanent Account Number) to simplify income tax return filing in India.

2. Access to Financial Services:

   • Aadhar is essential for opening and maintaining bank accounts, applying for loans, and investing in financial instruments like mutual funds.

3. Verification for Property Transactions:

   • An Aadhar card helps NRIs verify their identity during property purchases or sales in India.

4. Government Services:

   • Though NRIs may not be eligible for welfare schemes, having an Aadhar card can ease access to other government services.

Key Points to Remember

1. Mandatory for Certain Services:

   • While an Aadhar card is not mandatory for NRIs in many cases, it is increasingly becoming a standard requirement for accessing financial and tax-related services in India.

2. No Need for Multiple Enrollments:

   • An NRI can only enroll for an Aadhar card once. Duplicates are not allowed.

3. Linking with PAN:

   • NRIs must link their Aadhar with PAN to comply with Indian tax laws and avoid penalties.

FAQs on Aadhar Card for NRIs

1. Can NRIs apply for an Aadhar card from abroad?

No, NRIs must be physically present in India to apply for an Aadhar card, as the process involves biometric verification.

2. Is it mandatory for NRIs to have an Aadhar card?

No, Aadhar is not mandatory for NRIs unless they need it for specific services like filing income tax returns.

3. Can NRIs update their overseas address on the Aadhar card?

Yes, NRIs can update their overseas address by visiting an enrollment center and providing valid address proof.

Conclusion

An Aadhar card is a valuable identification document for NRIs, providing access to various financial and governmental services in India. While it is not mandatory for all NRIs, having one can simplify many processes, especially for those with financial or property interests in India. By following the outlined steps and ensuring proper documentation, NRIs can easily apply for and benefit from an Aadhar card.