An Aadhaar for NRIs is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) to an NRI (Non-Resident Indian). An individual's biometric and demographic details are used to issue the card.
An NRI needs an Aadhaar card to make financial and government-related transactions in India. It includes opening bank accounts, filing income tax, and even purchasing a property. Unlike residents, NRIs don't need to fulfill the 182-day residency requirements to apply for an Aadhaar card.
You must not mistake the Aadhaar card as a citizenship document, as it serves as proof of identification in India for foreign nationals. In this blog, we will walk you through the details of the Aadhaar rules for an NRI.
Key Takeaways
- An NRI Aadhaar card is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by UIDAI to an NRI, which serves as proof of identification and address.
- NRIs can use an Aadhaar card to open bank accounts, file income tax, purchase a property, or conduct any financial transaction in India.
- The 182-day residency requirement has now been removed by the UIDAI for NRIs who wish to apply for an Aadhaar.
- The UIDAI has now made a valid Indian passport the sole proof of address and identity for NRIs to enroll in Aadhaar.
- You need to furnish a valid Indian email address, as SMS/text messages will not be sent to non-Indian mobile numbers.
- NRI Aadhaar enrolment process uses specific forms, catered according to different age groups.
What is Aadhaar and Why Does it Matter for NRIs?
The Aadhar card is an essential identification document provided by the Indian government. It provides you with a unique 12-digit identification number linked to your biometric and personal details, helping you access government services, bank accounts, etc.
Keep in mind that an Aadhaar card doesn't prove your Indian citizenship. Also, it doesn't provide any foreigners with the right to reside in the country. An Aadhaar for NRIs serves as proof of identification in India for foreign nationals. Additionally, an NRI needs the card to seek employment, mainly in the government sector.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining an NRI Aadhaar Card?
Here are the individuals who are eligible to apply for an Aadhar card in India:
- OCI (Overseas Citizen of India): An OCI cardholder who has stayed in India for at least 182 days in the preceding 12 months qualifies to apply for an Aadhaar card.
- NRI (Non-Resident Indians): NRIs having a valid Indian passport can apply for an Aadhaar card from any Aadhaar enrolment centre in India, regardless of whether minors or adults.
- Long-Term Visa (LTV): Individuals holding an LTV from minority communities can apply for an Aadhaar card. It includes Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
- Nepal and Bhutan Nationals: Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan holding a valid passport and other relevant documents qualify to apply for an Aadhaar card.
- Other Resident Foreigners: who stayed in India for more than 182 days in the previous one year can apply for an Aadhaar.
- Resident foreigners holding a valid registration certificate or residential permit with FRO/FRRO. This is apart from OCI cardholders, LTV document holders, or Nepal or Bhutan citizens.
What are the Benefits of the Aadhaar Card for NRIs?
For NRIs, the Aadhaar card is optional. However, they can use it as proof of address, identity, and date of birth. Here are some other uses and benefits of an Aadhaar card for NRIs:
- Filing Income Tax Returns.
- Opening NRI bank accounts.
- Purchasing/selling a property.
- Re-KYC/activation of your dormant accounts.
What are the Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Rules for NRIs?
Some modifications have been made recently by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to the Aadhaar enrolment and update rules. The changes were made to ease the process for both residents and non-residents, including:
Valid Indian Passport and Mandatory Email ID
During the enrolment process for NRIs, a valid Indian passport can now be used as the sole proof of address and identity for Aadhaar enrolment. Additionally, you need to provide an email address, as no SMS or text messages will be delivered to non-Indian mobile numbers.
New Forms for Resident and Non-Resident Individuals
Separate forms have been introduced for Aadhaar enrolment and update to differentiate between resident, NRI children, and adults. This update ensures that each category's requirements are fulfilled. Here are some of the updated forms:
Form 1: Revised for Residents and NRIs aged 18 or above
The standard Form for Aadhar enrolment for both residents and non-residents aged 18 or above is the revised Form 1.
Form 2: Enrolment and Update for NRIs with Proof of Address Outside India
Form 2 must be used by NRIs having address proof outside India for both enrolment and updates.
Forms 3,4,5,6,7, and 8: for Different Age Groups and Residency Status.
The UIDAI has introduced individual forms for children aged 5 years and above and for resident foreign nationals above 18 years, each catering to different residency statuses and age groups.
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What are the Documents Required for NRIs, OCIs, LTV Holders, Nepal and Bhutan Nationals, and Other Foreign Nationals?
The table below shows the UIDAI-approved documents for the Aadhaar card for NRIs:
| Category |
Identity Proof |
Address Proof |
Date of Birth Proof |
| NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) |
Indian Passport |
Indian residential address
or
NRI bank account statements reflecting residency information.
|
Indian passport or a birth certificate issued by a recognized authority. |
| OCI Cardholders |
OCI Card, foreign passport |
- |
Foreign Passport |
| Long-Term Visa Holders (LTV) |
LTV document, a valid or expired foreign passport. |
LTV document |
Foreign passport |
| Nepal and Bhutan Nationals |
Passport of Nepal or Bhutan
or
Bhutanese/Nepalese citizenship certificate
or
Limited validity photo ID certificate issued by the Nepalese/Bhutanese Mission in India
|
Similar to identity proof |
Nepal or Bhutan passport |
| Other Resident Foreigners |
Valid foreign passport. |
Valid visa and residence proof for at least 182 days within the past year.
or
Registration/residential permit by FRRO/FRO.
|
Foreign passport |
An NRI must keep the following information in mind while applying for Aadhaar enrolment or update:
- NRIs who hold a valid Indian passport need not fulfill the requirement of staying in India for 182 days in the previous 12 months.
- No SMS or text messages will be delivered to non-Indian numbers, so ensure to provide a valid email address during the enrolment process.
- An international number is not supported by the UIDAI for enrolment and updates.
- An NRI must provide an Indian address with a valid supporting address proof.
- For the NRI Aadhaar enrolment process, an NRI must visit any Aadhaar Kendra with a valid Indian passport. After that, you need to complete the enrolment form and submit the biometric and demographic data.
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To Conclude
Having an Aadhaar card is optional for NRIs, but it is advised to apply for one as it is essential for conducting financial transactions in India. The modifications to the Aadhaar rules for NRIs aim to enhance the clarity and efficiency of the enrolment and update process for NRIs. If you are an NRI with a valid Indian passport, you can apply for an Aadhaar card without the need to fulfill the 182-day stay requirement.
However, the NRI Aadhaar enrolment process involves complex documentation rules, essential physical biometric verification, and complexities while using international contact details. So, to avoid any confusion, seek assistance from the experts at Savetaxs.
We are a team of experts who have been assisting NRIs for more than two decades now. They can guide you in understanding the complexities of NRI Aadhaar enrolment and update rules. Contact us right away; our team is working around the clock to assist you with everything you need so that you focus on what's more important to you.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this guide are personal and do not constitute the views of Savetaxs. Savetaxs or the author will not be responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by the reader for taking any decision based on the information or the contents. It is advisable to consult either a CA, CS, CPA, or a professional tax expert from the Savetaxs team, as they are familiar with the current regulations and help you make accurate decisions and maintain accuracy throughout the whole process.
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