Even Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are eligible to get an Aadhaar Card. Check Aadhaar Card eligibility for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and details regarding its significance here.
In today’s interconnected world, many Indians live and work abroad while maintaining strong ties to their homeland. For these Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), the question of Aadhaar Card eligibility often arises.
This article aims to provide a clear and detailed explanation of Aadhaar Card eligibility for NRIs, the application process, and its significance in their lives.
Content Index
What is Aadhaar?
Before we get into the specifics of NRIs, let’s understand what Aadhaar is. Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
It serves as a proof of identity and address for residents of India. The Aadhaar program aims to provide a single, universal identity document for all Indian residents.
Who Can Get Aadhaar?
All individuals residing in India can apply for an Aadhaar Card, regardless of their age or gender. This includes citizens, legal residents, and even foreign nationals who have been living in India for an extended period.
However, what many people don’t realize is that Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can also obtain an Aadhaar number.
This inclusion of NRIs in the Aadhaar program reflects the government’s recognition of the significant role that the Indian diaspora plays in the country’s economic and social fabric.
Eligibility Criteria of Aadhaar: Residents vs. NRIs
Let’s understand the Aadhaar Card eligibility criteria for residents of India and NRIs:
Aadhaar Card Eligibility For Residents of India
To be eligible for Aadhaar enrollment, residents must have lived in the country for at least 182 days (approximately six months) in the 12 months preceding the date of application. This residency requirement ensures that the Aadhaar card is issued to individuals who have a substantial presence in the country.
Aadhaar Card Eligibility For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
In case of Aadhaar Card eligibility of NRIs, the residential condition of 182 days is not mandatory. If your passport has the name of your spouse, then it can be used as Proof of Address for them. This flexibility recognizes the unique situation of NRIs who may visit India for shorter periods but still need an identity document for various purposes.
The Significance of Aadhaar for NRIs
You might wonder why an NRI would need an Aadhaar card. Here are several reasons:
- Financial Transactions: Aadhaar can be linked to bank accounts, making it easier for NRIs to manage their finances in India.
- Property Matters: When buying, selling, or renting property in India, having an Aadhaar can simplify many processes.
- Government Services: Many government services and schemes are linked to Aadhaar, which can be beneficial for NRIs who need to access these services during their visits to India.
- Tax Filing: While not mandatory, having an Aadhaar can streamline the process of filing taxes in India for NRIs who have taxable income in the country.
- Future Planning: For NRIs planning to return to India in the future, having an Aadhaar card in place can make the transition smoother.
The Application Process for NRIs
Now that we’ve established that NRIs are eligible for Aadhaar, let’s look at how they can apply:
Visit an Enrollment Center: Unlike residents who can choose from numerous enrollment centers across India, NRIs must visit a UIDAI-run Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) or a UIDAI-authorized bank branch offering Aadhaar services. These centers are equipped to handle NRI applications.
Documentation: The most important document for NRIs is a valid Indian passport. This serves as both identity and address proof. However, NRIs can also bring other address proof documents that the government accepts, such as:
- Bank statement or passbook
- Electricity bill
- Water bill
- Telephone or mobile bill
- Property tax receipt
- Passport
- Driving license
- Government photo ID cards/service photo identity card issued by PSU
- NREGA job card
- Photo ID issued by recognized educational institution
- Arms license
- Photo bank ATM card
- Photo credit card
- Pensioner photo card
- Freedom fighter photo card
- Kissan photo passbook
- CGHS/ECHS photo card
- Address card having name and photo issued by Department of Posts
- Certificate of identity having photo issued by Gazetted Officer or Tehsildar on letterhead
Biometric Information: NRIs will need to provide biometric information, including fingerprints, iris scans, and a photograph. This ensures the uniqueness of each Aadhaar number.
Enrollment Form: Fill out the Aadhaar enrollment form with accurate personal details.
Verification: The enrollment officer will verify the documents and biometric information.
Acknowledgment Slip: After successful enrollment, NRIs will receive an acknowledgment slip with a 14-digit enrollment ID. This can be used to check the status of their Aadhaar application online.
The Uniqueness of Aadhaar
It’s important to note that each individual is assigned only one Aadhaar number in their lifetime. The UIDAI ensures this uniqueness through a process of demographic and biometric deduplication.
This means that even if an NRI has had an Aadhaar number in the past and it has been deactivated due to prolonged absence from India, they should reactivate the same number rather than applying for a new one.
Future Developments
The Indian government continues to evolve its policies regarding Aadhaar for NRIs. There have been discussions about making the process even more accessible, such as allowing enrollment at Indian embassies and consulates abroad. While these changes haven’t been implemented yet, they indicate the government’s recognition of the importance of making Aadhaar accessible to the Indian diaspora.
Conclusion
Obtaining an Aadhaar card as an NRI is not only possible but can also be highly beneficial. While the process requires some effort, especially in terms of visiting India and gathering the necessary documents, the advantages it offers in terms of seamless interactions with Indian financial and governmental systems make it a worthwhile endeavor for many NRIs.
As India continues to digitize its services and link more aspects of civic and financial life to Aadhaar, having this unique identification number becomes increasingly valuable for NRIs who maintain connections with their homeland. Whether it’s for managing property, handling finances, or planning for a future return to India, an Aadhaar card can be a vital tool for NRIs navigating their dual connection to India and their country of residence.
