Aadhaar Card for OCI Holders Explained with Full Eligibility Details

Are you trying to make sense of India's complex rules regarding Aadhaar eligibility as Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)? 

OCIs do enjoy several benefits, but the Aadhaar card-related norms can be a bit specific and tricky to grasp. For eligibility, an OCI must have lived in India for at least 182 days in the 12 months before applying. 

To know more about the eligibility criteria, how to apply and the benefits offered by the Aadhaar card for OCI holders, keep reading this blog! 

Key Takeaways

• While not mandatory, having an Aadhaar card simplifies financial transactions, tax filings and travel in India.
• Individuals above 18 must fill Form 7, while minors must fill Form 8.
• They cannot apply for Aadhaar online and must visit an Aadhaar Kendra in India.

Can an OCI Card Holder Apply for an Aadhaar Card?

OCI cardholders can apply for and get an Aadhaar Card, but certain conditions apply. The individual must have stayed in India for over 182 days in the past 12 months to be eligible for the Aadhaar Card. 

The stay duration which is to be considered must be immediately preceding the application date for Aadhaar Card enrolment. 

Moreover, the individual must possess an Indian address alongside the necessary documents in order to get an Aadhaar Card. 

OCI card holders who are of or above the age of 18 must fill out Form 7 to proceed with Aadhaar enrolment/update. On the other hand, OCI minors are supposed to fill out Form 8.

Note that the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) has updated the applicable rules as of now. They’ve also released forms which are numbered 1 to 9 for enrolment, update or cancellation of Aadhaar. 

How Can OCI Holders Apply for Aadhaar Card?

The first requirement would be to ensure that your stay in India at least spans over 182 days within the preceding 12 months. If you meet this condition, you can begin the Aadhaar application process by following these steps:

Step 1: Go to your nearest Aadhaar Kendra branch in India. Keep the required documents handy.

Step 2: Fill out and submit the application form. Provide the documents as well as biometric data, including: 

• Ten fingers’ prints, 
• Image of your face,
• IRIS scan

Step 3: Give out your Email ID as a compulsory step, alongside your phone number.

Step 4: Post verification of the data, the Aadhaar card shall be delivered to the provided address through post.

Documents Required for Aadhaar Card for OCI Holders

• Mandatory Email ID: An email address for the Aadhaar card application
• Proof of Address: 2 valid proofs of address in accordance with UIDAI
• Proof of Identity: Relevant OCI card and a valid foreign passport, given that you have stayed in India for at least 182 days, if not more, within the preceding 1 year.
• Cell Phone Number: Optional
• Birth Date Proof: Optional

Why Should OCI Card Holders Get an Aadhaar Card? 

Ease with Financial Transactions for OCIs

OCI cardholders can make use of the Aadhaar to open up bank accounts. Further, they can buy real estate, apply for high-paying jobs, etc. While OCIs shall be able to do the same without having an Aadhaar, possessing one makes the procedures hassle-free.

Stress-free & Easy Travel/Stay Experience

The Aadhaar Card can help OCIs clear airport security quickly. Several hotels in India accept Aadhaar as a dependable identity proof. Therefore, having this document in handy shall be helpful for individuals newly navigating the country.

Income Tax Filings

An Aadhaar Card can simplify the process of income tax return filing. 

Note: The Ministry of Finance establishes that mentioning the Aadhaar number on the Income Tax return will not be acceptable for “non-residents” (not eligible for the Aadhaar). Only OCIs living in India for over 182 days in the 12 months preceding the Aadhaar application shall be considered as "residents", according to the Aadhaar Act. 

Final Word 

Obtaining the Aadhaar card by an OCI might seem challenging at first. 

However, OCIs shall indeed benefit from this identification system, considering how it simplifies various financial tasks, streamlines tax obligations, etc. The identification lets OCIs stay connected and empowered during their stay in India, making everyday tasks easier to tackle.

To sum up, the Aadhaar card for OCI holders will unlock new conveniences which make living in our country and availing services here more accessible.