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The question arises whether NRIs can apply for Aadhaar card in India. The answer is yes, NRIs are eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card in India. However, there are certain conditions that need to be fulfilled by NRIs in order to apply for this card.
What is Aadhaar Card?
An Aadhaar card is a unique identification number issued by the Indian government. These 12-digit numbers serve as a unique identifier for an individual, including non-resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) residing abroad. This nationality identification card is a significant document for various government schemes and services. Also, you can use it for private transactions such as opening a bank account, obtaining a mobile phone connection, and so on. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) may also apply for this card in India, subject to certain conditions.
Who Issues It?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), a statutory authority established by the Indian government has the right to issue it. This very same authority has made it possible for non-residents to apply for an Aadhaar card in India. It can be easily done through a process known as the “enrollment process”. The enrollment process requires applicants to provide personal details and biometric information such as fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs, and finally, these details are submitted to the UIDAI.
Residential Condition
Indian migrants need to be present in India at the time of the application process. It means that they cannot apply for an Aadhaar card online or through any other means from outside India. They must physically be present in India to apply for the card.
Eligibility for Aadhaar Card
NRIs who wish to apply for an Aadhaar card in India must meet certain eligibility criteria.
As aforesaid, they must have been residing in India for a period of at least 182 days (6 months) in the 12 months preceding the date of application. This means that non-residents who have been living abroad for an extended period of time may not be eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card in India.
Required Documents
These emigrants must visit an Aadhaar enrollment center, which can be found in various locations across the country. At the enrollment center, they must provide these documents:
- Proof of identity and proof of address, as well as their biometric information
- Proof of identity can be provided through documents such as a passport, PAN card, driving license, or voter ID card
- Enclose proof of address, which can be provided through documents such as a bank statement, utility bill, or rental agreement
- Attach their mobile number and email address, which will be used to communicate with them about this identification card
Verification
Once the enrollment process is complete, the competent authority will verify the information provided by the emigrants and issue an Aadhaar card if everything is fine or in order.
Processing
This identification card will be sent to the NRI’s address within a few weeks of the enrollment process. In the meantime, they can check or track the status of this card by visiting the UIDAI website and entering their enrollment ID and other details.
Process to Get Aadhaar Card
Formally, you (as NRI) can follow these steps to get it quickly. Once these conditions are met, you can apply for an Aadhaar card by following the below steps:
Step 1: Find the Nearest Enrollment Center
You can find the nearest enrollment center on the aforementioned website , or by calling the toll-free number 1947. You can also book an appointment online for the enrollment process.
Step 2: Fill Out the Enrollment Form
You need to fill out the Aadhaar enrollment form at the center. The form requires personal information such as name, date of birth, address, and contact details.
Step 3: Submit Identity and Address Proof
You need to submit proof of identity and address, along with a copy of your passport.
Step 4: Provide Biometric Data
NRIs need to provide their biometric data by undergoing a fingerprint scan, iris scan, and photograph.
Step 5: Receive Acknowledgement Slip
Once the enrollment process is complete, you will receive an acknowledgement slip. The slip contains an enrollment ID, which can be used to check the status of this card.
Step 6: Receive Aadhaar card
Emigrants will receive their Aadhaar card via post at the address provided in the enrollment form.
It is important to note that NRIs who apply for this card in India are subject to the same rules and regulations as Indian citizens. This means that you must use your card for legitimate purposes only. Also, you must not use it for any illegal or fraudulent activities. Additionally, keeping your card safe and secure is a must, and you should not share your Aadhaar number or other details with anyone except for authorised agencies or individuals.
