Aadhaar Enrollment for NRIs Having Foreign Address in Passport

Aadhaar Enrollment for NRIs Having Foreign Address in Passport Aadhaar Enrollment for NRIs having a foreign address in their passport is allowed by UIDAI. Learn the complete process, eligibility, required forms, and documents for successful Aadhaar registration.

The Aadhaar card, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is one of the most crucial identity documents in India. It serves as a foundational identity proof and is widely used for accessing various government services, subsidies, and schemes. While Aadhaar is mainly designed for Indian residents, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) often have questions about whether they are eligible to enroll, especially if their passport displays an address located outside India.

Can NRIs Enroll for Aadhaar If Their Passport Has a Foreign Address?

Yes, NRIs who have a foreign address mentioned in their passport are fully eligible to enroll for Aadhaar. The foreign address in the passport is accepted as a valid Proof of Address (POA), and the passport itself acts as Proof of Identity (POI) during enrollment. However, the UIDAI has established specific processes and forms that must be used depending on the case. NRIs must ensure that they complete the correct form—either Form 2, Form 4, or Form 6—when applying for Aadhaar.

Understanding Aadhaar Enrollment for NRIs

Aadhaar enrollment is open to NRIs regardless of the address listed in their passport. The process is fairly straightforward, but using the appropriate form is crucial. UIDAI provides different forms depending on whether an NRI is enrolling for the first time, updating an existing Aadhaar, or making biometric or demographic corrections. NRIs with a foreign address in their passport must use one of the designated forms during the Aadhaar process.

Forms Applicable for NRIs with Foreign Address

There are three main forms that NRIs may need to use:

These forms are available at Aadhaar enrollment centers and on the official UIDAI website. Choosing the correct form ensures smooth processing and acceptance of a foreign address in the Aadhaar system.

Eligibility for Aadhaar Enrollment for NRIs

According to the Aadhaar Act of 2016, an NRI is typically eligible for Aadhaar enrollment if they have stayed in India for a total of 182 days or more during the 12 months immediately before the date of application. However, this rule has been revised in recent years. As per the latest government notification, Indian passport-holding NRIs no longer need to meet the 182-day residency requirement. They can apply for Aadhaar as soon as they arrive in India.

This amendment has been particularly helpful for NRIs who frequently travel or have strong links to India but reside abroad. As long as they hold a valid Indian passport, they can initiate the Aadhaar enrollment process even if their address in the passport is outside India.

Documents Required for NRIs with Foreign Address

For NRIs with a foreign address, the main document required for Aadhaar enrollment is a valid Indian passport. This single document is accepted both as Proof of Identity (POI) and Proof of Address (POA). The UIDAI considers the foreign address mentioned in the passport as a valid entry, and it is recorded as such in the Aadhaar database.

It’s important to ensure that the passport is in good condition, with clear and legible text for name, date of birth, and address. If the address section is incomplete or unclear, it may lead to complications during the verification process.

Steps to Enroll for Aadhaar Using Foreign Address

To apply for Aadhaar Card with foreign address, follow the steps provided below:

  • Visit a nearby Aadhaar Seva Kendra or authorized Aadhaar enrollment center.
  • Request the appropriate form (Form 2, 4, or 6) based on your requirement.
  • Submit your Indian passport for verification. No other documents are needed for POI or POA.
  • The operator will capture your biometric details—fingerprints, iris scan, and facial photograph.
  • Once the data is entered, you will receive an acknowledgment slip containing your 14-digit Enrollment ID (EID).
  • You can track the status of your Aadhaar application online using this EID.

After successful verification, the Aadhaar number is generated and communicated via SMS or email. Since the address is foreign, physical delivery of the Aadhaar card by post might not be possible. However, the e-Aadhaar can always be downloaded from UIDAI’s website.

Important Things NRIs Should Remember

  • Always declare your NRI status while enrolling.
  • The Aadhaar record will display the NRI status as a tag.
  • Ensure that the passport has a complete and accurate foreign address.
  • Only Indian passports are accepted. NRIs holding foreign passports, OCI, or PIO cards are not eligible to enroll using those documents.

Conclusion

NRIs whose passports contain a foreign address can indeed enroll for Aadhaar, provided they follow UIDAI’s prescribed process and use the correct form—Form 2, 4, or 6 depending on the case. The Indian passport is the key document for enrollment, and the foreign address mentioned in it is accepted as valid. This facility makes it easier for NRIs to remain connected with India’s digital and administrative ecosystem, avail government benefits, and complete financial and legal transactions that require Aadhaar authentication.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official UIDAI website (https://uidai.gov.in) or consult a certified Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

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