Aadhaar Card for NRIs: How Non-Resident Indian Can Enroll for Aadhaar Card Online?

Aadhaar Card for NRIsAadhaar Card for NRIs: Your Complete Guide to Obtaining and Utilizing the Non-Resident Indian Aadhaar Card

In today’s interconnected world, maintaining ties with one’s home country is more important than ever. For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), the Aadhaar Card has emerged as a crucial link to their Indian roots.

Are you a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) wondering if you can get an Aadhaar card? Good news! The Indian government now allows NRIs to obtain Aadhaar cards, making it easier for you to access various services and benefits in India.

Whether you’re planning to visit your home country, invest in property, or simply want to stay connected with your Indian roots, an Aadhaar card can be incredibly useful. This article will explain everything you need to know about Aadhaar cards for NRIs, including eligibility, application process, and the advantages of having one.

What is an Aadhaar Card?

The Aadhaar Card is a unique identification document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It serves as a digital identity proof for residents of India, including eligible NRIs.

This 12-digit number is more than just an ID; it’s a key that unlocks various services and simplifies numerous processes for Indians, both resident and non-resident.

Why Should NRIs Get an Aadhaar Card?

As an NRI, you might wonder why you need an Aadhaar Card. Here are some compelling reasons:

  • Simplified Financial Transactions: With an Aadhaar Card, you can easily open bank accounts, make investments, and link existing accounts in India.
  • Streamlined Tax Filing: If you have taxable income in India, an Aadhaar Card is mandatory for filing your income tax returns.
  • Smooth Property Transactions: Buying or selling property in India? An Aadhaar Card can significantly simplify these processes.
  • Access to Government Services: Many Indian government services now require Aadhaar for verification, making it easier for NRIs to access these services during their visits to India.
  • Digital Identity: In an increasingly digital India, Aadhaar serves as a robust digital identity, simplifying various online and offline processes.

How to Obtain an Aadhaar Card for NRIs?

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can obtain an Aadhaar card by following these steps during their visit to India:

Step 1. Find an Aadhaar Kendra

  • Locate a convenient Aadhaar enrollment center (Aadhaar Kendra) in India.
  • These centers are widely distributed across the country.

Step 2. Prepare Documentation

  • Bring your valid Indian Passport as the primary identity document.
  • Consider bringing additional address and date of birth proofs (optional).

Step 3. Complete the Enrollment Form

  • At the Aadhaar Kendra, fill out the provided enrollment form.
  • Ensure you include your email address (mandatory for NRIs).
  • You can download the NRI Aadhaar Enrollment Form in advance for reference.

Download Aadhaar Enrollment Form Here.

Step 4. Declare NRI Status

  • Pay special attention to the NRI declaration section in the form.
  • Read carefully and sign as instructed.

Step 5. Inform the Operator

  • Explicitly tell the enrollment operator that you’re applying as an NRI.
  • This ensures the correct enrollment process is followed.

Step 6. Submit Passport and Other Proofs

  • Present your Indian Passport as the main identity proof.
  • You can use your Passport for address and date of birth verification, or provide separate documents from UIDAI’s approved list.

Step 7. Biometric Data Collection

  • Provide your biometric data:
    • Fingerprints
    • Iris scans
    • Photograph

Step 8. Information Verification

  • Carefully review all your details on the operator’s screen.
  • Check both English and local language versions for accuracy.
  • Confirm the details before the operator submits your application.

Step 9. Collect Acknowledgement Slip

  • After successful enrollment, you’ll receive an acknowledgment slip.
  • This slip contains:
    • Your 14-digit Enrollment ID
    • Date and time stamp of enrollment
  • Keep this slip safe for future reference and status checking.

Step 10. Track Your Aadhaar Status

Important Notes:

  • The process must be completed in person during your visit to India.
  • Ensure all documents are current and valid.
  • The enrollment is free of cost.
  • Processing time may vary; be prepared to wait for your Aadhaar to be generated and delivered.

Aadhaar Enrollment for Children of NRIs

If you’re looking to enroll your children for Aadhaar, the process varies slightly based on their age:

For Children Below 5 Years:

  • A parent or guardian must authenticate on behalf of the child and provide consent by signing the enrollment form.
  • A valid Indian passport is mandatory as Proof of Identity (PoI) for NRI children.
  • For children residing in India (non-NRI), a valid Proof of Relationship document (like a Birth Certificate) along with the parent/guardian’s Aadhaar can be used.

For Children Between 5 to 18 Years:

  • Parental/guardian consent is required via signature on the enrollment form.
  • NRI minors must provide a valid Indian passport as Proof of Identity (PoI).
  • For minors residing in India (non-NRI):
    • If no document exists in the minor’s name: Use a valid Proof of Relationship document (e.g., Birth Certificate) for enrollment under the Head of Family.
    • If the minor has a document: Use a valid Proof of Identity (PoI) and Proof of Address (PoA) document (like a School ID card) in the child’s name.

Documents Required for NRIs to Enroll for Aadhaar Card

A list of documents required by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to enroll for an Aadhaar Card is as follows:

  1. Proof of Identity (PoI):
    • Valid Indian Passport
  2. Proof of Address (PoA):
    • Valid Indian Passport
  3. Additional Documents:
    • Valid Visa (if applicable)
    • Any other document issued by the Indian Embassy in the country of residence, proving the person’s NRI status

Important Notes:

  • The Indian Passport serves as both Proof of Identity and Proof of Address for NRIs.
  • All documents should be valid and current at the time of application.
  • For NRIs born on or after October 1, 2023, a birth certificate is mandatory.
  • The Aadhaar card issued to NRIs will be valid for a period of ten years.
  • NRIs must enroll for Aadhaar at designated Aadhaar enrollment centers during their visit to India.
  • Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances. It’s advisable to check with the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) website or the nearest Indian Embassy/Consulate for the most up-to-date information.
  • The enrollment process for NRIs is similar to that for resident Indians, but there may be some additional verification steps.

Benefits of Your NRI Aadhaar Card

Once you have your Aadhaar Card, here’s how you can make the most of it:

  • Seamless Banking: Link your Aadhaar to your NRI bank accounts for easier transactions and KYC processes.
  • Effortless Investments: Use your Aadhaar to simplify the process of investing in Indian financial instruments like mutual funds or stocks.
  • Hassle-free Tax Filing: When it’s time to file your Indian income tax returns, your Aadhaar will streamline the process.
  • Property Matters Made Easy: Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting property in India, your Aadhaar can simplify documentation and verification processes.
  • Government Scheme Access: Some government schemes and services accessible to NRIs may require Aadhaar verification, making your card invaluable.

Keeping Your Aadhaar Secure

While an Aadhaar Card offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to keep it secure:

  • Never share your Aadhaar number or biometric details with unauthorized individuals or entities.
  • Regularly check your Aadhaar authentication history to ensure there’s no misuse.
  • If you suspect any unauthorized use, immediately report it to UIDAI.

Conclusion

In an era where digital identity is becoming increasingly important, the Aadhaar Card serves as a crucial bridge between NRIs and their homeland. By simplifying processes, enhancing security, and enabling seamless transactions, it ensures that distance doesn’t become a barrier for NRIs engaging with Indian institutions and services.

Whether you’re managing finances, handling property matters, or simply staying connected with your roots, your NRI Aadhaar Card is a powerful tool in your arsenal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can obtain and utilize your Aadhaar Card effectively, ensuring a smoother experience in all your India-related endeavors.

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