How to apply for Aadhaar Card? Can you apply online?

Many of my readers ask me this question, can you apply for the Aadhaar card online? Can you apply for Aadhaar card outside of India, or do NRIs are even eligible for Aadhaar card or not. One of the key things to remember that NRIs are not eligible for the Aadhaar card because they are not currently staying in India, they can only apply for it when they become Indian residents. Similarly, you cannot apply for the Aadhaar card online, you must go to the Aadhaar help center to apply because you also need to give your biometric data like fingerprints, thumb impression,  and retina print.

Yes, I agree that the offline application of Aaddhaar is time-consuming because of poor public service infrastructure and processes in India. You have to wait for hours for your turn but you can't do anything if you need Aadhaar, you need to bear that pain.

Though, some of my readers suggested that there are agents that will come to your home and help you to apply for Aadhaar by taking your phone and biometric data for a cost. I haven't tried that but seems a better option if your time is more important than money.

The eligibility criterion for Aadhaar Card

Anyone, including a resident of India, foreigners, NRIs, PIOs and OCI holder can apply for Aadhaar card, provided they are currently living in India. There is no restriction on age and gender but in case of a child, you may need to go for biometric registration again, once they cross a certain age.
https://uidai.gov.in/images/aadhaar_enrolment_correction_form_version_2.1.pdf

Documents required for Aadhaar
The three documents like Identity proof, Address proof, and Proof of Date of Birth are must for any applicants but depending upon whether you are an Indian resident or foreigners, or PIO, you may need to produce additional documents like Passport. 

Step by Step Guide to Apply for Aadhaar Card

You cannot apply for Aadhaar card online, you have to visit the enrollment center with your identity, address, and date of birth proof for biometric registration. Here are the exact steps to apply for Aadhaar Card in India

1. Visit your nearest enrollment center with identity and address proof to apply, you should carry both photocopy and original. You also need to fill an application form. You can download the application form as PDF here
2.Your Application data is then entered into the system database
3.Your fingerprints are taken, a digital photograph and Iris capture done.

You also need to make a declaration that you are staying in India for at least 182 days in last 12 months like "I confirm that I have been residing in India for at least 182 days in the preceding 12 months & information (including biometrics)  provided by me to the UIDAI  is my own and is true, correct and accurate."

Once documents verified, Aadhaar number is issued. The time frame is supposed to be about 60 - 90 days from completing the above formalities, however, expect to wait three-plus months.

Other Aadhaar related articles you may like to read

• Frequently asked questions about Aadhaar and PAN card for NRIs
• Is Aadhaar Card Mandatory for NRIs?
• Do NRIs need to link their Aadhaar Card with PAN Card?
• Do NRIs need to link their Bank account with Aadhaar?
• Do NRIs need to link Insurance policies with Aadhaar?
• Is NRIs, PIOs, and OCI holders are eligible for Aadhaar Card?
• Is Aadhaar Mandatory for NRIs?

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