Can US Citizens/NRIs get Aadhaar Card?

So, you’re a US citizen or an NRI wondering if you can get an Aadhaar card—India’s biometric identification card that serves as proof of identity and is used for various services.

Aadhaar is primarily for Indian residents, so there are specific rules about who qualifies. While Aadhaar is not available to foreign nationals, NRIs (Indian passport holders residing abroad) may be eligible under certain conditions.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the eligibility requirements, application process, and benefits of having an Aadhaar card for NRIs and US citizens.

1. Can US Citizens Apply for an Aadhaar Card?

No, US citizens or any foreign nationals cannot obtain an Aadhaar card, as it is strictly for Indian residents. The Aadhaar card is designed to establish a unique identification for individuals residing in India, and it’s based on the requirement to prove residency.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) issues Aadhaar cards only to individuals who have resided in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months.

✈️ Traveling? Get Covered. Get Insurance 👉 Recommended Plans

Can US citizens get Aadhaar card
💡Tip: If you’re a US citizen of Indian origin, you may consider applying for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, which provides some benefits for residency in India, though it doesn’t qualify you for Aadhaar. Share on X

2. Can NRIs Get an Aadhaar Card?

Yes, NRIs are eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card under specific conditions. To qualify, an NRI must hold a valid Indian passport and meet the residency requirement of staying in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months.

Can US Citizens/NRIs get Aadhaar Card? 1

This residency requirement is set by the UIDAI to ensure that Aadhaar is issued only to those who have a sustained presence in India.

💡Tip: NRIs who frequently visit India and stay for extended periods can consider applying for Aadhaar, as it can simplify various processes, like banking, property purchases, and tax filing. Share on X

3. Residency Requirement for Aadhaar Card

The residency requirement for an Aadhaar card is clear: applicants must have lived in India for a total of 182 days or more in the past year. This condition applies to all individuals, including NRIs, regardless of their nationality or origin.

Since this requirement is based on a “continuous” presence, short visits do not count toward the 182 days needed for Aadhaar eligibility. If an NRI has not met this criterion, they will need to wait until they have accumulated enough days to apply.

💡Tip: Calculate your cumulative days in India before applying to ensure you meet the residency requirement to avoid delays or rejections. Share on X

4. Why NRIs Might Want an Aadhaar Card

For NRIs, having an Aadhaar card can be beneficial, especially if you have ongoing financial or legal engagements in India. Here are a few reasons why NRIs often seek Aadhaar:

  • Ease in Banking: Many Indian banks require Aadhaar for KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance, making it easier to open or maintain accounts.
  • Property Transactions: Aadhaar can streamline processes for buying, selling, or managing property in India.
  • Income Tax Filing: For NRIs with Indian income, Aadhaar helps in linking to PAN (Permanent Account Number) for tax filing.
  • SIM Card and Digital Services: Aadhaar is often required for getting a local SIM card or subscribing to digital services like utilities or government schemes.
💡Tip: While Aadhaar is helpful, it’s not mandatory for NRIs in all cases, so evaluate if you genuinely need it based on your activities in India. Share on X

5. Steps for NRIs to Apply for an Aadhaar Card

If you’re an eligible NRI, here’s how to apply for an Aadhaar card:

  1. Gather Documents: You’ll need an Indian passport (mandatory for NRIs) and, if necessary, proof of address in India.
  2. Visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Center: Aadhaar centers are available across India. Use UIDAI’s official website to find the nearest center.
  3. Fill Out the Enrollment Form: Complete the application form at the center.
  4. Biometric Data Collection: You’ll need to provide fingerprints, an iris scan, and a photograph.
  5. Receive Aadhaar Acknowledgment Slip: Once enrolled, you’ll receive a slip with your enrollment number, which you can use to track the status of your application.
💡Tip: Schedule your appointment in advance if possible, as Aadhaar centers can be crowded, especially in urban areas. Share on X

6. Common Questions on Aadhaar for NRIs and Foreign Nationals

1. Do NRIs have to link Aadhaar to their PAN for tax purposes?
If you’re an NRI with taxable income in India, you’ll need to link your PAN with Aadhaar if you have one. However, it’s not mandatory to obtain Aadhaar solely for this purpose.

2. Can OCI cardholders apply for Aadhaar?
No, OCI cardholders are considered foreign nationals and do not meet the eligibility criteria for Aadhaar, as they are not Indian residents.

3. Can Aadhaar be used as proof of citizenship?
No, Aadhaar is not a proof of citizenship; it is an identification document for residents of India, confirming only the residency status.

4. How can NRIs update their Aadhaar if they return to India permanently?
NRIs who permanently return to India can update their Aadhaar details, such as address, by visiting an Aadhaar center and submitting valid proof of residence.

Summary Table: Aadhaar Card Eligibility for NRIs and US Citizens

CriteriaNRIsUS Citizens/OCI Holders
EligibilityAllowed if residing in India for 182+ daysNot eligible, as they are foreign nationals
Mandatory DocumentIndian passportNot applicable
Residency Requirement182 days in the past 12 monthsNot applicable
BenefitsBanking, tax filing, property transactionsNot eligible for Aadhaar benefits
Application StepsVisit Aadhaar center, biometric data collection, formNot applicable

Conclusion

While US citizens and OCI holders are not eligible for an Aadhaar card, NRIs who meet the residency requirements can apply, making various financial and legal processes easier in India.

If you’re an NRI who frequently visits India, consider if having Aadhaar will simplify your interactions with banks, property registrations, or tax departments.

💡Tip: Always check the latest guidelines on the UIDAI website for updated eligibility and application procedures. Share on X

Have questions about applying for Aadhaar as an NRI? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments to help others navigate the process!

Having lived in the USA for almost 7 years, I got bored and returned back to India. I created this website as a way to curate and journal my experiences. Today, it's a movement with a large community behind it. Feel free to connect! Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn |

Leave a Comment

Not Sure?
Take Your Time.

Join City Groups