How UAE-Based NRIs Can Apply for an Aadhaar Card in India
For many non-resident Indians (NRIs) living in the UAE, an Aadhaar card has become an essential document. It is widely used for accessing banking services, registering mobile numbers, and availing various government services in India. More recently, CBSE schools in the UAE have begun requesting Aadhaar details to generate an Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) ID, which tracks a student’s academic journey.
Although Aadhaar is crucial, NRIs cannot apply for it directly from the UAE. The enrolment process must be completed in person at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra (enrolment centre) in India. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is an Aadhaar Card?
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is generated after the demographic and biometric verification process. Aadhaar enrolment is free, but services like reprinting the card may attract a fee.
Can NRIs Apply for Aadhaar?
Yes. NRIs—both adults and minors—can apply, provided they hold a valid Indian passport. Unlike residents, NRIs are not required to have lived in India for at least 182 days. However, an active Indian mobile number is mandatory to receive application updates, as international numbers are not accepted.
Step-by-Step Aadhaar Enrolment Process for NRIs
Step 1: Visit an enrolment centre in India
- Locate the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra through the UIDAI portal.
- Book an appointment online or walk in.
Step 2: Submit documents and details
- Mandatory details: Name, Date of Birth, Gender, Address, Email, Mobile Number.
- Biometrics: Photograph, fingerprints of all ten fingers, iris scans.
- Documents: Valid Indian passport (mandatory as Proof of Identity).
- If your address has changed, submit an alternative valid proof of address.
Step 3: Fill out the NRI enrolment form
- NRIs must use a separate form, available at centres or for download from the UIDAI website.
Step 4: Collect acknowledgement slip
- Once enrolled, you will receive a slip containing an Enrolment ID (EID), which can be used to track your application status online.
Aadhaar Enrolment for NRI Children (5–18 years)
- Must be done in India, in the presence of a parent/guardian.
- Required: Child’s Indian passport, parent’s Aadhaar number.
- Biometric data: Only a photograph until the child turns 18.
- Fingerprints and iris scans are collected after 18.
- Enrolment is free, and the residency requirement does not apply.
Supporting Documents Required
- Primary: Valid Indian passport.
- If address differs from passport: Utility bills, property tax receipts, or other government-recognised address proofs.
- Download the full list of acceptable documents from the UIDAI website.
Tracking Aadhaar Status
- Use the 14-digit Enrolment ID (EID) printed on your acknowledgement slip.
- Visit the official UIDAI portal: resident.uidai.gov.in/check-aadhaar.
- Aadhaar generation can take up to 90 days. Once processed, the Aadhaar letter is sent to the registered address by post.
Note: UAE-based NRIs cannot apply from abroad; they must visit India to complete the enrolment in person. With a valid Indian passport, correct documents, and an active Indian mobile number, obtaining Aadhaar is straightforward for both adults and children.
