How to Get Aadhaar Card for NRI: Documents & Process and Benefits

What is Aadhaar Card and Why Do NRIs Need It?

The Aadhaar card is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It's linked to your biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans) and serves as a valid proof of identity and address across India. Think of it as India's most widely accepted ID document that simplifies almost every official transaction you'll make.

As an NRI, you might wonder if you really need an Aadhaar card when you already have a passport. The answer depends on how much time you spend in India and what financial activities you plan to do. If you're just visiting occasionally, you can manage without it. But if you have income sources in India, own property, or plan extended stays, an Aadhaar card becomes incredibly useful.

Here's why getting an Aadhaar card makes sense for NRIs:

For Banking and Financial Services

Your Aadhaar card speeds up the entire Know Your Customer (KYC) process dramatically. Opening an NRI bank account, NRO account, or FCNR account becomes much faster when you have Aadhaar. Many banks now prefer Aadhaar-based KYC because it's instant and paperless. You can also link your Aadhaar to your existing bank accounts, which makes transactions smoother and helps you avoid repeated documentation requests.

For Tax Filing and Compliance

Having an Aadhaar card simplifies your income tax return filing process. While linking PAN (Permanent Account Number) with Aadhaar is mandatory for resident Indians, NRIs have some flexibility depending on their residency status. However, if you meet the 182-day residency requirement and become a resident for tax purposes, you'll need to link your PAN with Aadhaar to avoid penalties and keep your PAN active.

For Property Transactions

Buying residential or commercial property in India becomes easier with an Aadhaar card. While it's not mandatory to own property, having Aadhaar speeds up property registration, helps you get home loans faster, and simplifies all the paperwork involved. Your Aadhaar serves as both identity and address proof, reducing the number of documents you need to submit.

For Investments and Trading

You'll find that opening a demat account for stock trading or investing in mutual funds is much simpler with Aadhaar. Most brokerages and investment platforms now offer instant account opening if you have Aadhaar, compared to the traditional process that could take weeks.

For Government Services and Subsidies

Your Aadhaar gives you access to various government schemes and services. You can get an LPG connection with subsidies, apply for passport services faster, and access other welfare programs if you're eligible. When you return to India permanently, having an Aadhaar card already in place helps you transition smoothly into resident status.

The bottom line is simple. An Aadhaar card isn't just another ID document. It's your gateway to hassle-free financial and administrative transactions in India. The time you invest in getting one now will save you countless hours of paperwork and waiting in the future.

Who Can Apply for NRI Aadhaar Card? (Eligibility Criteria)

Not every NRI can walk into an Aadhaar enrollment center and get an Aadhaar card. There are specific eligibility criteria you need to meet, and understanding these requirements will save you from wasting a trip to the enrollment center.

The 182-Day Residency Rule: Your Primary Requirement

The most important eligibility criterion for NRIs is the 182-day residency rule. You must have stayed in India for at least 182 days (roughly 6 months) in the 12 months immediately before your Aadhaar enrollment date. This rule applies to almost all categories of applicants, whether you're an NRI with an Indian passport, a foreign passport holder, or an OCI cardholder.

Why does this rule exist? The government designed Aadhaar as an identification system for residents of India, not just citizens. By requiring a 182-day stay, UIDAI ensures that you have a genuine connection to India and a valid reason to need an Aadhaar card.

Let's say you're planning to apply for Aadhaar in December 2025. You need to have spent at least 182 days in India between December 2024 and December 2025. These days don't have to be continuous. You could have visited India multiple times during this period, and as long as the total adds up to 182 days or more, you meet the requirement.

NRIs with Indian Passport

If you hold a valid Indian passport, you're eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card once you meet the 182-day rule. Your Indian passport will serve as your mandatory proof of identity. Both adults and minors with Indian passports can apply, though the process differs slightly for children (we'll cover this in the documents section).

NRIs with Foreign Passport

Yes, you can get an Aadhaar card even if you've surrendered your Indian passport and now hold only a foreign passport. The eligibility criteria remain the same: you need to have stayed in India for at least 182 days in the past year. Your foreign passport will be used as proof of identity, and you'll need to provide additional documentation showing your connection to India and proof of your stay.

OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) Cardholders

If you're an OCI cardholder, you can apply for an Aadhaar card provided you meet the 182-day residency requirement. You'll need to present your valid OCI card along with your valid foreign passport as proof of identity. Keep in mind that Aadhaar cards issued to OCI holders have a validity period of 10 years, unlike those issued to NRIs with Indian passports, which are permanent.

LTV (Long Term Visa) Document Holders

Long Term Visa holders from minority communities of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh (specifically Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians) are eligible to apply for Aadhaar. You need a valid LTV document and a valid or expired foreign passport. The Aadhaar issued to LTV holders is valid only until the validity of the LTV document.

Nepal and Bhutan Nationals

If you're a citizen of Nepal or Bhutan, you can apply for an Aadhaar card with your Nepal or Bhutan passport. If you don't have a passport, you can use other documents like a citizenship certificate or voter ID card issued by your country. The Aadhaar card for Nepal and Bhutan nationals is valid for 10 years.

Other Resident Foreigners

Foreign nationals from countries other than Nepal and Bhutan who have lived in India for at least 182 days in the past year can also apply. You need a valid foreign passport with a valid visa, plus a Registration Certificate or Residential Permit issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO).

Who Cannot Apply for Aadhaar Card?

Understanding who is not eligible is equally important. You cannot apply for an Aadhaar card if you don't meet the 182-day residency requirement, no matter what type of passport you hold. If you're an NRI who only visits India for short vacations or business trips totaling less than 182 days a year, you'll need to wait until you spend more time in India.

You also cannot apply for Aadhaar from outside India. There's no provision for applying through Indian embassies or consulates abroad. You must be physically present in India at an Aadhaar enrollment center to complete your biometric verification.

Tourists on short-term visas who don't meet the residency requirement are not eligible, and neither are people who have overstayed their visas or are in India without proper documentation.

The key takeaway here is simple. Check your stay duration in India before planning your Aadhaar application. If you haven't completed 182 days yet, you'll need to wait or plan a longer stay in India before you can apply.

Documents Required for Aadhaar Card for NRI

Getting your documents right is crucial for a smooth Aadhaar enrollment process. Missing even one required document means you'll have to reschedule and visit the enrollment center again. Let's break down exactly what you need based on your category.

For NRIs with Indian Passport

If you're an NRI holding a valid Indian passport, your document requirements are straightforward.

Mandatory Documents:

Your valid Indian passport is absolutely mandatory as proof of identity. This is non-negotiable. The passport must be valid (not expired) at the time of enrollment. Make sure to carry the original passport, not just a photocopy. The enrollment operator will verify your passport and return it to you after capturing the necessary details.

Address Proof Options:

Here's where you have some flexibility. If the address mentioned in your passport is current and matches where you want your Aadhaar card delivered, you can simply use your passport as both identity and address proof.

However, if your passport shows an old address and you've since moved within India, you can provide any other valid address proof document. Acceptable documents include your electricity bill, water bill, telephone bill (landline or postpaid mobile), bank account statement, or property tax receipt. These documents should be recent (typically within the last 3 months) and in your name.

What if you're staying with relatives or friends and don't have bills in your name? You can use the Head of Family (HoF) option. The person at whose address you're staying can act as the Head of Family, and you can use their address proof along with a relationship document.

Email ID:

Providing your email address is mandatory for NRI applicants. This is how UIDAI will communicate with you about your application status and send you your e-Aadhaar. Make sure you provide an active email address that you check regularly.

Mobile Number:

While providing a mobile number is optional for NRIs during enrollment, it's highly recommended. Having an Indian mobile number linked to your Aadhaar makes future updates and verifications much easier.

Unfortunately, you cannot provide an international mobile number, as the system only accepts Indian mobile numbers with the +91 country code.

For NRIs with Foreign Passport

If you've surrendered your Indian passport and now hold only a foreign passport, don't worry. You can still get an Aadhaar card, but you'll need a few additional documents.

Mandatory Documents:

Your valid foreign passport serves as your proof of identity. Bring the original passport to the enrollment center. The operator will verify it and return it to you.

Proof of 182-Day Stay:

Since you're applying with a foreign passport, you may be asked to prove that you've stayed in India for at least 182 days. While this isn't always strictly enforced at the enrollment center, it's good to be prepared. You can use documents like visa stamps in your passport showing entry and exit dates, hotel booking confirmations, flight tickets, or any other documentation that establishes your stay duration in India.

Address Proof:

You can use any valid address proof document accepted by UIDAI. This includes your foreign passport (if it has your Indian address), rental agreement, utility bills, or NRI bank account statements showing your Indian address.

Other Documents:

Some enrollment centers may ask for additional documents establishing your connection to India, such as property documents if you own real estate in India, or employment documents if you're working in India.

For OCI Cardholders

OCI cardholders have a slightly different set of requirements.

Mandatory Documents:

You need two main documents: your valid OCI card and your valid foreign passport. Both must be original documents. The OCI card serves as your primary identity proof, while the foreign passport provides additional verification.

Address Proof:

Similar to other categories, you can use your OCI card or foreign passport as address proof if they show your Indian address. Otherwise, provide any standard address proof document like utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements.

Remember that your Aadhaar card as an OCI holder will be valid for only 10 years, after which you'll need to update it.

For Children and Minors

The document requirements for children vary based on their age, and parents or guardians play an important role in the process.

For Children Under 5 Years:

If your child is below 5 years of age, biometric capture (fingerprints and iris scans) is not done. Only a photograph is taken. One parent or legal guardian must be present to give consent and authenticate on behalf of the child.

Required Documents:

• If the child is an NRI with an Indian passport, the child's valid Indian passport is mandatory as proof of identity
• Birth certificate showing the child's date of birth
• Parent or guardian's Aadhaar card (if available)
• Proof of relationship document linking the child to the parent or guardian

The parent or guardian must sign the enrollment form giving consent for the minor's enrollment.

For Children Aged 5 to 18 Years:

Children in this age group need to provide biometric information (fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph), but a parent or guardian must still give consent by signing the enrollment form.

If the minor is an NRI with an Indian passport:

• Child's valid Indian passport is mandatory as proof of identity
• Birth certificate as proof of date of birth
• School ID card or school leaving certificate (optional but helpful)

If the minor is an Indian resident (not NRI):

• If the minor has documents in their name: School ID card, birth certificate, or any valid identity document
• If the minor doesn't have documents: Any valid proof of relationship document (like birth certificate) can be used under the Head of Family option, where one parent's Aadhaar is used

Important Note for All Minors:

Children enrolled before the age of 5 must undergo biometric update when they turn 5 years old, and again when they turn 15 years old. This ensures that the biometric data remains current as the child grows. Biometric updates for minors are free of cost.

Additional Documents to Carry:

Regardless of your category, here are some practical tips on documents:

Carry original documents for verification. The operator will check them and return them to you. Also bring one set of photocopies just in case, though most centers don't require photocopies anymore.

Make sure all your documents are valid and not expired. An expired passport or OCI card won't be accepted.

If any of your documents are in a regional language, carrying a translated version can help, though it's not always mandatory.

Double-check that the name spelling is consistent across all your documents. Variations in spelling can cause problems during verification.

Keep your documents organized in a folder so you can quickly present them when needed. This saves time at the enrollment center and ensures a smooth process.

Now that you know exactly what documents you need, you're ready to move forward with the application process. Having all the right paperwork prepared in advance will make your enrollment experience quick and hassle-free.

How to Obtain Aadhaar Card for NRI: Step-by-Step Process

Now that you know you're eligible and have your documents ready, let's walk through the actual enrollment process. Following these steps in order will help you avoid common mistakes and get your Aadhaar card without any hassles.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you do anything else, verify that you meet the basic requirements. Count the number of days you've actually spent in India over the past 12 months. Include all your trips, even short ones. If you're not sure, check your passport stamps for entry and exit dates.

If you're close to 182 days but not quite there yet, wait until you complete the required stay. Attempting enrollment before meeting this requirement will result in rejection, and you'll have to start the process all over again.

Also, check that your passport (Indian or foreign) is valid and not expired. If your passport is about to expire in the next few months, consider renewing it first to avoid complications.

Step 2: Locate Nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center

Finding an Aadhaar enrollment center near you is easy. Visit the official UIDAI website at uidai.gov.in and look for the "Locate Enrolment Center" option. You can also use the Bhuvan Aadhaar Portal, which shows all enrollment centers on a map.

Enter your address, pin code, or use your current location to find centers nearby. The portal will show you a list of centers with their addresses, contact numbers, and working hours. Most centers operate from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays, though some are open on Saturdays as well.

Should You Book an Appointment?

Booking an appointment is highly recommended, though not mandatory. Walk-ins are accepted at most centers, but you might have to wait in long queues, especially during peak hours or holiday seasons. With an appointment, you get a specific time slot, which means minimal waiting time.

To book an appointment, go to the UIDAI website, click on "Book an Appointment" under the Get Aadhaar section, select your nearest center, choose your preferred date and time, and fill in your basic details. You'll receive a confirmation on your email and mobile number.

If appointments aren't available at your preferred center or you need urgent enrollment, you can visit as a walk-in. Just be prepared to wait longer.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Organize all your documents the night before your appointment. Create a checklist based on your category (NRI with Indian passport, foreign passport, OCI, etc.) and tick off each document as you pack it.

Your Complete Checklist:

• Original valid passport (Indian or foreign)
• OCI card (if applicable)
• Address proof document (if different from passport)
• Birth certificate (for proof of date of birth, if needed)
• Email address (write it down clearly to avoid spelling mistakes)
• Indian mobile number (if you have one)
• One passport-sized photograph (some centers ask for it, though it's not always mandatory)

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Don't carry expired documents. Even if your old passport has your current address, an expired passport won't be accepted.

Don't rely on photocopies alone. While you can carry photocopies as backup, enrollment operators need to see and verify original documents.

Don't forget to note down your email address clearly. You'll need to provide it during enrollment, and spelling mistakes can cause delivery issues.

Don't carry too many documents. Stick to what's required for your category. Extra documents can cause confusion.

Step 4: Visit the Enrollment Center

On the day of your appointment, reach the enrollment center 10-15 minutes early. This gives you time to find the right counter, understand the process, and settle any initial queries.

When you enter the center, you'll typically see different counters for different services. Look for the "New Enrollment" counter or desk. If you have an appointment, inform the staff, and they'll guide you to the right place.

What to Expect at the Center:

The center will have several enrollment operators working at computer stations. Each operator handles the complete enrollment process for one applicant at a time. You'll be assigned to an operator, and they'll guide you through the entire process.

The environment is usually busy but organized. Don't hesitate to ask questions if you're confused about anything. The operators are trained to help, especially with NRI and foreign national enrollments, which have slightly different procedures.

Inform the Operator About Your NRI Status:

This is crucial. As soon as you sit down with the enrollment operator, clearly tell them that you're applying as an NRI or foreign resident. This is important because the operator needs to select the correct enrollment category in the system. If they enroll you as a regular Indian resident by mistake, your application might face issues later.

Say something like: "I'm an NRI with an Indian passport" or "I'm applying as a foreign resident with an OCI card." This helps the operator select the right form and capture the correct information.

Step 5: Fill the Enrollment Form

The enrollment operator will help you fill the enrollment form on the computer. They'll ask you questions, and you'll need to provide answers clearly. Pay attention to each field because errors here can delay your Aadhaar issuance.

Which Form Will You Use?

Form 7 is used for all adult foreign residents (18 years and above), including NRIs with Indian or foreign passports, OCI holders, and other categories.

Form 8 is used for minors (below 18 years), including children of NRIs.

You don't need to download or fill these forms yourself. The enrollment operator will fill the digital version of the form based on your responses. However, if you want to review the form structure beforehand, you can download sample forms from the UIDAI website.

Key Fields You'll Fill:

Your Full Name: Provide your name exactly as it appears in your passport. Don't use nicknames or abbreviated versions. If your name has initials, expand them to full names.

Date of Birth: This will be taken from your passport or birth certificate. Make sure the operator enters it correctly.

Gender: Male, Female, or Transgender.

Address: This is where your Aadhaar card will be delivered by post, so provide your complete Indian address with proper pin code. The system will auto-fill State, District, and Sub-district based on your pin code.

The Care of (C/o) field is part of your address but doesn't need documentary proof. You can mention the name of the person at whose house you're staying.

Email Address: Spell it out clearly to the operator. This is mandatory for NRI applicants.

Mobile Number: Provide an Indian mobile number if you have one. International numbers are not accepted.

Residential Status: The operator will mark you as "NRI" or "Resident Foreigner" based on your category.

Documents Presented: The operator will note which documents you've submitted for identity and address proof.

Declaration: At the end of the form, you'll see a declaration stating that all information provided is correct. Read it carefully (it will be displayed on screen in English and the local language) and confirm that you understand and agree.

Step 6: Biometric Capture Process

Once the form is complete, the next step is biometric data collection. This includes your fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph. Don't worry, the process is quick and painless.

Fingerprint Capture:

The operator will scan all 10 of your fingers (both thumbs and all eight fingers). You'll place each finger on a fingerprint scanner, one at a time. The operator will guide you on which finger to place and when.

Iris Scan:

Next, the operator will capture your iris (the colored part of your eye). You'll look into a special iris scanner camera, and the system will capture images of both your eyes.

Photograph:

Finally, the operator will take your photograph using a webcam or camera attached to the enrollment system. This photo will appear on your Aadhaar card, so try to look presentable.

Tips for a good photo: Sit straight and look directly at the camera. Don't smile too broadly or make faces (a neutral expression or slight smile works best). Remove sunglasses or caps. If you wear glasses for vision, you can keep them on. Make sure your face is clearly visible and not covered by hair or accessories.

What If Biometric Capture Fails?

Sometimes, biometric capture might fail due to technical issues, poor quality fingerprints, or eye conditions. Don't panic. The operator can mark an exception and proceed with whatever biometrics are successfully captured. Your Aadhaar will still be issued, though future authentications might require alternative methods.

Step 7: Review and Submit

After biometric capture, the operator will show you a preview screen with all your information. This is your last chance to catch any errors before submission.

What to Verify on Screen:

Check your name spelling carefully. Even a small typo can cause problems later.

Verify your date of birth. Make sure the day, month, and year are correct.

Check your complete address. Ensure the pin code, state, district, and all address lines are accurate.

Review your email address and mobile number.

Confirm that your photograph looks clear and recognizable.

The information will be displayed in English and also in the local language of your state. Ask the operator to explain anything you don't understand.

Common Errors to Catch:

Name spelling variations (like "Mohammad" vs "Mohammed" or "Suresh" vs "Sures")

Switched day and month in date of birth (especially if you're used to the MM/DD/YYYY format used in some countries)

Missing apartment or house numbers in address

Wrong pin code

Typos in email address

Once you've verified everything and confirmed it's correct, give your approval to the operator to submit the application. You'll also need to sign or provide your thumbprint on a digital signature pad as final confirmation.

Step 8: Collect Acknowledgment

After successful submission, the operator will give you an acknowledgment slip. This is a very important document, so keep it safe.

What's on the Acknowledgment Slip:

14-digit Enrollment ID (EID): This is your unique enrollment number. You'll need this to track your application status and collect your Aadhaar card.

Date and Time Stamp: Shows when your enrollment was completed.

Enrollment Center Details: Name and address of the center where you enrolled.

Applicant Name and Address: Your basic details as entered in the system.

Some centers might charge a small fee for Aadhaar enrollment (usually around 50 to 100 rupees). However, for most NRI applicants, the service is free. If any charges are mentioned on your acknowledgment slip, that's normal at certain private enrollment centers.

What to Do with Your Acknowledgment Slip:

Take a clear photo of it and save it on your phone and email. This way, you won't lose the enrollment ID even if you misplace the physical slip.

Write down the 14-digit enrollment ID in a safe place.

Don't throw away the slip until you receive your physical Aadhaar card.

You can use this enrollment ID to track your Aadhaar status online, which we'll cover in the next section.

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

From the time you sit with the enrollment operator to receiving your acknowledgment slip, the entire process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, assuming there are no technical issues. If the center is busy and you're a walk-in without an appointment, you might spend additional time waiting in queue.

Now that you've successfully completed your enrollment, your Aadhaar card will be generated and sent to your registered address. In the next section, we'll look at the different forms used for NRI enrollment and what makes them unique.

Conclusion

Getting an Aadhaar card as an NRI is straightforward once you meet the 182-day residency requirement and have your documents ready. The process requires you to be physically present in India at an enrollment center, where you'll complete biometric verification and receive your Aadhaar within 90 days.

Your Aadhaar card will become your most valuable identification document for banking, tax filing, property transactions, and investments in India, making your financial life significantly easier. If you're planning an extended stay in India or have ongoing financial activities here, make getting your Aadhaar card a priority. Visit the UIDAI website today to locate your nearest enrollment center and book an appointment to get started.