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The Aadhaar card has become a vital document for Indian residents, serving as proof of identity and facilitating access to various government services. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) often wonder if they are eligible for an Aadhaar card and how they can apply for it. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the Aadhaar card process for NRIs, its benefits, and its requirements.
Can NRIs Apply for an Aadhaar Card?
Yes, NRIs can apply for an aadhar card for nri if they meet certain conditions. As per the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits, and Services) Act, 2016:
- NRIs who have resided in India for a minimum of 182 days in the preceding 12 months are eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card.
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) are not eligible unless they meet the above residency requirement.
Eligibility Criteria for NRIs
To obtain an Aadhaar card, NRIs must:
- Have resided in India for at least 182 days in the 12 months preceding the application date.
- Provide valid identification documents proving their NRI status.
Steps to Apply for an Aadhaar Card as an NRI
- Locate an Aadhaar Enrollment Center
- Visit the official UIDAI website to locate the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center.
- Book an Appointment
- While walk-ins are accepted, booking an appointment online can save time.
- Carry the Required Documents
NRIs need to provide the following:- Passport: Mandatory proof of identity.
- Proof of Address: Includes utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements.
- Proof of Date of Birth: If not mentioned in the passport, additional proof like a birth certificate is required.
- Complete Biometric Verification
- At the center, biometric data (fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph) will be captured.
- Acknowledge Receipt
- After the verification process, an acknowledgment slip with the Enrollment ID will be provided.
- Wait for Aadhaar Generation
- Aadhaar is usually generated within 90 days. You can check the status online using the Enrollment ID.
Benefits of Aadhaar for NRIs
- Ease of Financial Transactions
- Aadhaar facilitates seamless access to banking services, including linking accounts for tax refunds and investments.
- Filing Income Tax Returns
- NRIs with taxable income in India can link Aadhaar to their PAN to file income tax returns.
- Access to Government Services
- Aadhaar enables access to select government services, subsidies, and schemes, where applicable.
- Simplifies Documentation
- Aadhaar serves as a universally accepted proof of identity and address in India.
Key Points to Remember
- Not Mandatory for All NRIs
- Aadhaar is not mandatory for NRIs unless they plan to reside in India for more than 182 days and avail of services that require Aadhaar.
- Linking Aadhaar with PAN
- NRIs who file taxes in India must link their Aadhaar with their PAN to comply with tax regulations.
- Mobile and Bank Account Linking
- Aadhaar can be linked to an NRO or NRE account to simplify banking transactions in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can NRIs who reside outside India apply for Aadhaar?
No, NRIs must reside in India for a minimum of 182 days in the preceding 12 months to be eligible.
2. Can NRIs use Aadhaar as proof of Indian citizenship?
No, Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship. It is proof of identity and residency in India.
3. Is Aadhaar mandatory for NRI investments in India?
While not mandatory, Aadhaar can simplify the process of investing in mutual funds, opening bank accounts, and other financial transactions in India.
Conclusion
An Aadhaar card can be a valuable document for NRIs who meet the eligibility criteria and plan to engage in financial or administrative activities in India. However, it is essential to understand the residency requirements and follow the proper application process.
For expert assistance with NRI-related documentation and compliance, consider consulting specialists like Dinesh Aarjav & Associates,
