This Guide on Aadhaar Card Application for Indians Abroad

The Aadhaar card, a 12-digit unique identification number provided by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), primarily serves Indian residents. However, the necessity for Aadhaar card has extended beyond India's borders, particularly for NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) and POIs (People of Indian Origin) seeking various services within India. This guide aims to provide clarity on the application process for Indians living abroad.

Can NRIs and POIs Apply for Aadhaar Card Abroad?

Despite the utility of the Aadhaar card for NRIs and POIs, the UIDAI has specific guidelines requiring applicants to be physically present in India for biometric verification. While individuals can gather the necessary documents and prepare online, the actual submission process must take place within India.

Eligibility for NRIs and POIs

As of August 2023, there are no formal provisions allowing NRIs and POIs to complete the Aadhaar application process entirely from abroad. Nevertheless, Indian citizens residing abroad, including NRIs and POIs with dual citizenship, generally meet the eligibility criteria. However, the critical role of biometric verification necessitates that the final steps of the application must be completed in India.

Key Documents Required for Aadhaar Card Application for NRIs and POIs

The Aadhaar card application process for NRIs and POIs is closely aligned with that of other residents of India. The procedure involves submitting the Aadhaar application form and presenting documentary proof to verify identity, address, and date of birth.

Required Documentation

Aadhaar Card Application Form: This is the primary document that initiates your Aadhaar application process. The form is available online and needs to be submitted to an Aadhaar enrollment center in India. Proof of Identity: Acceptable IDs include passport, driving license, or national ID card. The document must be in English or Hindi and need not be a government-issued ID. Proof of Address: Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, or telephone) within three months of the application date are acceptable. The address on the document should match the one provided in the application form. Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, school record, or original passport are valid forms of proof. The date of birth provided in the ID should match the one in the application form, and the name on both documents should be a match.

Biometric Verification Process

A key component of the Aadhaar application is the biometric verification process, which involves capturing facial and fingerprint information. Due to the necessity of this step, the entire application process, including the biometric verification, must be completed in India.

Steps to Complete Biometric Verification in India

1. **Visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Center:** NRIs and POIs must visit an Aadhaar enrollment center in India. These centers are located in various cities across the country.

2. **Submit Required Documents:** Provide the necessary identity, address, and date of birth proof documents as mentioned above. The documents should be in good condition and clear.

3. **Facial Recognition and Fingerprinting:** A biometric scanner will capture your facial and fingerprint information. This process is quick and non-invasive.

4. **Upload Data:** The biometric data will be securely uploaded to the UIDAI database, completing the Aadhaar application process.

Conclusion

For NRIs and POIs, the process of applying for an Aadhaar card requires both preparation of documents and physically being present in India to complete the biometric verification step. While the acquisition of documents can be done elsewhere, the final steps must be taken in India. For the latest and most detailed information, it is advisable to check the official UIDAI website or contact their support.

Key Takeaways:

NRIs and POIs require physical presence in India for biometric verification. Proof of identity, address, and date of birth are essential documents. The Aadhaar application process is the same for NRIs and other Indian residents.