The Aadhaar card is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to residents of India. For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), there has often been confusion regarding the eligibility and process for obtaining an Aadhaar card. In this guide, we address everything NRIs need to know about the Aadhaar card, its significance, and the application process.

Are NRIs Eligible for an Aadhaar Card?

Yes, NRIs are eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card. However, specific conditions must be met:

1. Minimum Stay Requirement: An NRI must have resided in India for at least 182 days in the preceding 12 months to be eligible for Aadhaar.
2. OCI/PIO Eligibility: Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) are not eligible for Aadhaar if they do not meet the 182-day stay requirement.

Importance of Aadhaar for NRIs

Although aadhar card for nri​ is not mandatory, it has several advantages:

1. Ease of Financial Transactions: Aadhaar facilitates KYC (Know Your Customer) verification for opening bank accounts, investing in mutual funds, or availing other financial services in India.
2. Tax Compliance: Aadhaar is often required for filing income tax returns and linking with a PAN card for Indian taxpayers.
3. Access to Indian Services: NRIs can access services like SIM card issuance, property registration, and government schemes using Aadhaar.

How to Apply for an Aadhaar Card as an NRI

1. Locate an Aadhaar Enrollment Center

   • Visit the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center in India. You can find the list of centers on the official UIDAI website.

2. Carry Required Documents
   NRIs must provide the following documents during enrollment:

   • Proof of Identity (PoI): Passport (mandatory for NRIs).
   • Proof of Address (PoA): Indian address proof such as a rental agreement, utility bill, or Indian passport showing an Indian address.
   • Proof of Date of Birth: Passport.
   • Proof of Residence in India: Evidence of residing in India for 182 days in the preceding year, if required.

3. Complete Biometric Verification 

   • During enrollment, biometric data (fingerprints, iris scan) and a photograph will be captured.

4. Receive an Enrollment ID

   • After the process, you will receive an enrollment ID as acknowledgment.

5. Check Aadhaar Status

   • Use the enrollment ID on the UIDAI website to track your Aadhaar card status.

6. Download e-Aadhaar

   • Once issued, you can download a digital copy of your Aadhaar (e-Aadhaar) from the UIDAI portal.

Key Points to Remember

1. No Mandatory Requirement for NRIs: Aadhaar is not mandatory for NRIs to conduct financial or other activities in India unless explicitly required.
2. Special NRI Status in Aadhaar: During application, NRIs must declare their status as “NRI” to ensure proper processing.
3. Linking Aadhaar with PAN: While linking Aadhaar with PAN is mandatory for residents, NRIs are exempt unless they have taxable income in India.
4. Aadhaar and OCI Holders: OCI and PIO cardholders do not qualify for Aadhaar unless they fulfill the residency condition.

Benefits of Aadhaar for NRIs

1. Ease of Banking:
   Aadhaar simplifies the process of opening and maintaining NRE/NRO accounts in India.

2. Investments Made Simpler:
   NRIs can use Aadhaar for mutual fund investments, stock trading, and other financial transactions requiring KYC.

3. Tax Compliance:
   Aadhaar makes it easier to file income tax returns and claim refunds, especially if the PAN card is linked.

4. Access to Government Services:
   NRIs visiting India can use Aadhaar to access public services like healthcare and travel-related services.

Challenges Faced by NRIs

1. Residency Proof Requirement: Providing evidence of a 182-day stay in India can be challenging for NRIs who frequently travel.
2. Limited Applicability: NRIs may not find Aadhaar useful in many international scenarios, as it primarily caters to Indian residents.
3. Clarifications on Exemptions: There remains confusion regarding the applicability of Aadhaar for tax filing and linking with PAN for NRIs.

Conclusion

While Aadhaar is a useful document for NRIs engaging with Indian systems and services, it is not mandatory unless specified. NRIs planning to stay in India for extended periods or those with significant financial activities in the country may find it beneficial to apply for Aadhaar. Always consult a professional or visit the official UIDAI website for the latest updates and guidelines before applying.

For more assistance on NRI-related services, consult experts like Dinesh Aarjav & Associates, who specialize in helping NRIs navigate complex financial and compliance requirements.