Can OCI Cardholders Apply for an Aadhaar Card? Here's What UIDAI Rules Say

publisher-logo
Indiaemploymentnews
Mon Dec 15 08:54:54 IST 2025
whatsapp
Newspoint

With Aadhaar becoming a key identity document for accessing banking, telecom, tax, and government-related services in India, a common question among OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cardholders has been whether they are eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card. Until recently, the rules were unclear for many OCI residents living in India for extended periods. However, UIDAI guidelines have now clearly defined who can apply, under what conditions, and what documents are required

Hero Image
.

Here is a detailed, easy-to-understand explanation of the rules governing Aadhaar eligibility for OCI cardholders, as per UIDAI regulations.

Are OCI Cardholders Eligible for Aadhaar?

Yes, OCI cardholders can apply for an Aadhaar card, but eligibility is not automatic. According to UIDAI rules, an OCI cardholder becomes eligible only if they meet the residency requirement

.

Residency Condition You Must Meet

An OCI cardholder must have:

  • Stayed in India for at least 182 days (six months)

  • Within the 12 months immediately preceding the Aadhaar application

This condition ensures that Aadhaar is issued only to individuals who are genuinely residing in India and not to short-term visitors.

In simple terms, if you are an OCI cardholder living in India for work, studies, business, or family reasons and meet the minimum stay requirement, you are eligible to apply for Aadhaar.

Why Has UIDAI Set This Rule?

Aadhaar is primarily designed as a proof of identity and residence, not citizenship. UIDAI’s intention is to link Aadhaar to people who have a meaningful and continuous presence in India. The 182-day rule helps prevent misuse and ensures Aadhaar remains a residence-based identification system.

This clarity also aligns Aadhaar rules for OCI cardholders with residency norms followed in other regulatory and financial frameworks in India.

Documents Required for OCI Aadhaar Application

OCI cardholders must submit specific documents during the Aadhaar enrolment process. These documents help establish identity, residency, and personal details.

Mandatory Documents Include:

  • OCI Card – serves as primary proof of identity

  • Valid Passport – for identity and nationality verification

  • Proof of Indian Address, such as:

    • Electricity or utility bill

    • Bank statement

    • Rent or lease agreement

  • Date of Birth proof, if not clearly mentioned in the passport

All documents are verified during enrolment, and Aadhaar is issued only after successful authentication.

Where and How to Apply

OCI cardholders must apply for Aadhaar offline by visiting an authorized Aadhaar Enrolment Centre in India. Online applications are not available for first-time Aadhaar enrolment.

Application Process:

  • Visit a UIDAI-authorised Aadhaar Enrolment Centre

  • Submit required documents

  • Provide biometric details (fingerprints, iris scan, photograph)

  • Complete demographic information verification

  • Receive Aadhaar acknowledgment slip

    • Once verified, the Aadhaar number is generated and delivered as per UIDAI timelines.

    Validity and Use of Aadhaar for OCI Cardholders

    An Aadhaar card issued to an OCI cardholder works exactly the same way

    as it does for Indian residents in terms of usage.

    OCI Aadhaar holders can use it for:

    • Opening bank accounts

    • Filing income tax returns

    • Getting mobile and internet connections

    • KYC for financial services

    • Accessing various digital and offline services

    However, it is important to understand that Aadhaar does not grant Indian citizenship, voting rights, or political entitlements. It remains strictly an identity and residence document.

    What Aadhaar Does NOT Change for OCI Holders

    Even after getting an Aadhaar card:

    • OCI status remains unchanged

    • Citizenship rights are not granted

    • Passport or visa rules do not change

    Aadhaar simply makes everyday transactions and compliance processes easier for OCI residents in India.

    Why Aadhaar Matters for OCI Residents

    Many OCI cardholders have deep personal and professional ties with India. They may:

    • Work in India for long durations

    • Study at Indian institutions

    • Live with family members

    • Manage property or businesses

    For such individuals, Aadhaar acts as a convenience tool, reducing paperwork and simplifying access to essential services. With clear UIDAI rules now in place, uncertainty around eligibility has largely been removed.

    Final Takeaway

    OCI cardholders can apply for Aadhaar provided they have lived in India for at least 182 days in the last 12 months. With the right documents and verified residency, the process is straightforward. Aadhaar does not change an OCI holder’s legal status, but it significantly improves ease of living and compliance in India.

    For OCI residents planning long-term stays, Aadhaar is no longer a grey area—it is now a clearly defined and accessible option.

    Next Story