Aadhaar enrollment: New rules announced for NRIs, OCI-card holders
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced modifications to the Aadhaar (Enrolment and Update) Rules, introducing separate forms for residents and non-resident individuals. The circular, dated January 16, 2024, outlines key changes and requirements for Aadhaar enrolment and updates.
NRIs, whether minors or adults, holding a valid Indian Passport, are now eligible to apply for Aadhaar from any Aadhaar Kendra. The latest circular specifies that for NRI children, a valid Indian passport is the only accepted Proof of Identity (POI) and Proof of Address (POA). Additionally, for both resident Indians and NRIs born on or after October 1, 2023, a birth certificate is now mandatory.
The revised Form 1 will be used for Aadhaar enrollment for those aged 18 and above, whether residents or non-residents with proof of address in India. NRIs must provide an email address as part of their Aadhaar details, and according to Form 1 standards, no SMS or text messages will be sent to non-Indian cellphone numbers provided by NRIs.
A valid Indian passport is the sole accepted POI for NRIs, and Form 2 is designated for NRIs enrolling or updating with an address outside of India. Forms 3, 4, 5, and 6 are specified for enrolling children with varying age categories and addresses, distinguishing between residents and NRIs.
For resident foreign nationals above 18 years, Form 7 is to be used, requiring details of foreign passports, OCI cards, valid long-term visas, or Indian visas for enrolment. The inclusion of an email ID is mandatory in this category. Form 8 is designed for resident foreign nationals below 18 years, requiring parental or guardian authentication and consent.
The notification also emphasizes the use of a valid Indian Passport as mandatory POI for NRI applicants, who can choose to provide any other Indian address with valid supporting Proof of Address (PoA). The enrolment process for NRIs involves a specific declaration, and applicants are encouraged to carefully review all details on screen before submission.