Aadhaar NRI Enrolment: New Forms and Application Process for Indian NRIs

Key Takeaways:

• UIDAI has introduced new forms for Aadhaar enrolment for non-resident Indians (NRIs), streamlining the application process.
• Valid Indian passport is now the only accepted proof of identity for NRIs, and a birth certificate is mandatory for NRI children.
• NRIs can provide a different Indian address, supported by acceptable Proof of Address (PoA) documents, and must provide an email address for Aadhaar correspondences.

Changes to Aadhaar Enrollment for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has recently updated the process for Aadhaar enrolment and updates, introducing new forms specifically designed for NRIs. As per the UIDAI circular dated January 16, 2024, these changes are set to streamline the Aadhaar application process for both resident and non-resident Indians.

Understanding the New Forms for Aadhaar NRI Enrolment

For NRIs looking to enroll or update their Aadhaar information, here’s what you need to know:

• Form 1: Suitable for both residents and non-residents aged 18 and above with an address in India. This form is for enrolling or updating Aadhaar data.
• Form 2: Designed for NRIs with an address proof outside India.
• Form 3: For enrolling children (both residents and NRIs with Indian addresses) aged between 5 and 18 years.
• Form 4: For enrolling NRI children with addresses outside India.
• Form 5: Meant for resident or NRI children (having Indian address) below 5 years.
• Form 6: For NRI children (with address outside India) under 5 years.
• Form 7: For resident foreign nationals above 18 years who wish to enroll or update Aadhaar details.
• Form 8: For resident foreign nationals under 18 years.

Key Documentation Updates

The UIDAI mandates that a valid Indian passport serves as the sole accepted Proof of Identity (POI) for an NRI. Moreover, for NRI children and anyone born on or after October 1, 2023, a birth certificate is mandatory. Another notable point is that NRIs must provide an email address for Aadhaar correspondences, as SMS/text messages will not be sent to non-Indian mobile numbers.

Aadhaar Enrolment Process for NRI Children

For children of NRIs, the enrolment procedure varies with age:

• Below 5 Years: Parental consent and authentication are required on behalf of the minor, with the child’s valid Indian passport mandatorily presented as POI.
• Age 5-18 Years: Consent by a parent or guardian is necessary, again with the valid Indian passport of the child needed as POI.

Address Considerations in Aadhaar Application

NRIs have the option to provide a different Indian address than the one in their passport, provided they have valid supporting Proof of Address (PoA) documents acceptable by the UIDAI. To view the list of permissible documents, please refer to UIDAI’s document list.

Step-by-Step NRI Aadhaar Application Process

To apply for an Aadhaar card as an NRI, follow these simple steps:

1. Kendra Visit: Walk into any Aadhaar Kendra that is convenient for you.
2. Documentation: Carry your valid Indian passport, which will act as your Proof of Identity.
3. Form Filling: Fill out the enrolment form with your details, remembering that providing an email ID is mandatory.
4. Declaration: Pay attention to the declaration specific to NRI enrolment. Ensure you read and sign it in the form.
5. Operator Interaction: Inform the operator of your NRI status and present your passport as POI. If needed, provide additional documents for PoA and Date of Birth.
6. Biometrics: Go through the biometric capture process.
7. Verification: Double-check all the details on the screen before submission.
8. Acknowledgment: Collect the acknowledgment slip with your 14-digit Enrollment ID and the Date & Time Stamp.

You can track the status of your Aadhaar from the UIDAI’s official website: Check Aadhaar Status.

Keeping It International

Although UIDAI does not currently support the use of international/non-Indian mobile numbers for Aadhaar details, providing a valid email address ensures NRIs can stay updated with their Aadhaar application status.

The Takeaway

The recent changes by UIDAI signify an effort to accommodate the unique needs of NRIs in the Aadhaar enrolment process. Whether you’re applying for yourself or on behalf of your child, the new forms and guidelines promise a more straightforward experience. Remember, your Indian passport is your golden ticket throughout this process, and a valid email address is your link to any communication from UIDAI. With these tools in hand, enrolling in Aadhaar as an NRI should now be a seamless affair.

Learn Today:

Glossary or Definitions:

1. UIDAI: An acronym for Unique Identification Authority of India, UIDAI is the regulatory body responsible for issuing Aadhaar, a unique identification number for residents of India.

2. Aadhaar: Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by UIDAI to residents of India. It serves as proof of identity and address.

3. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): NRIs are Indian citizens who reside outside of India for employment, education, business, or any other purpose indicating their intention to stay outside India for an indefinite period.

4. Proof of Identity (POI): Proof of Identity refers to documents that are accepted as valid identification to establish an individual’s identity. In the context of NRI Aadhaar enrolment, a valid Indian passport serves as the sole accepted Proof of Identity for NRIs.

5. Proof of Address (POA): Proof of Address refers to documents that are accepted as valid identification to establish an individual’s address. NRIs have the option to provide a different Indian address than the one in their passport, provided they have valid supporting documents acceptable by UIDAI.

6. Enrolment Form: Enrolment form refers to the document that needs to be filled by individuals for the purpose of Aadhaar enrolment or updating their Aadhaar data. Different forms exist for different categories of applicants, such as residents, NRIs, children, and foreign nationals.

7. Enrolment ID: Enrolment ID is a 14-digit number provided to applicants after the completion of the Aadhaar enrolment process. It serves as a reference number to track the status of Aadhaar application.

8. Biometric Capture: Biometric capture refers to the process of collecting an individual’s biometric information, including fingerprints and iris scan, for Aadhaar enrolment.

9. Aadhaar Kendra: Aadhaar Kendra refers to the physical offices or centers where individuals can visit for Aadhaar enrolment, updating their Aadhaar data, or seeking any assistance related to Aadhaar.

10. Acknowledgement Slip: An acknowledgement slip is a receipt issued to the applicant after the successful completion of the Aadhaar enrolment process. It contains the Enrolment ID and the Date & Time Stamp of the enrolment.

11. NRI Children: NRI Children are individuals who are below the age of 18 and are dependents of NRIs. Different forms and requirements exist for enrolling NRI children under various age groups.

12. Operator: Operator refers to the personnel authorized by UIDAI to handle the Aadhaar enrolment process. They interact with applicants, collect their information, and assist them in completing the enrolment process.

13. Resident Foreign Nationals: Resident Foreign Nationals are individuals from foreign countries who are residing in India for a specific duration and wish to enroll or update their Aadhaar details.

14. SMS/Text Messages: SMS or text messages are electronic messages sent via mobile phones. In the context of Aadhaar, UIDAI requires NRIs to provide an email address for correspondence, as SMS/text messages will not be sent to non-Indian mobile numbers.

15. Consent: Consent refers to the voluntary agreement or permission given by a parent or guardian of a minor for enrolling or updating Aadhaar details on behalf of the minor.

(Note: The information provided here is based on the content provided in the question. It is important to cross-reference with official sources or consult an immigration expert for accurate and up-to-date information.)

So there you have it! The updated Aadhaar enrolment process for NRIs is here to make your life easier. With new forms specifically designed for NRIs and clear guidelines on documentation, applying for Aadhaar as an NRI has never been simpler. Just remember to bring your valid Indian passport and provide a valid email address for all correspondence. And if you want to dive deeper into the world of visas and immigration, head over to visaverge.com for more expert advice and guidance. Happy applying!

This Article in a Nutshell:

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has updated the Aadhaar enrolment process for NRIs. New forms, including ones for NRI children, have been introduced. NRIs must provide an Indian address, valid Indian passport, and birth certificate for children born on or after October 1, 2023. An email address is required for communication.