The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card is designed for people of Indian origin who have taken up citizenship in another country. It grants cardholders lifelong, multiple-entry access to India without the need for separate visas. With this card, individuals can reside, work, and conduct business in the country with ease. Moreover, OCI holders can buy property in India, except for agricultural land or farmland.
Can OCI Cardholders Get an Aadhaar Card?
Yes, OCI cardholders are allowed to apply for an Aadhaar card—but only if they meet certain conditions. According to the guidelines set by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the following criteria must be met:
- The applicant must be a resident in India.
- A “resident” refers to a foreign national, including OCI holders, who has lived in India for at least 182 days within the 12 months preceding the Aadhaar application.
- This rule also applies to long-term visa holders and citizens of Nepal or Bhutan living in India.
Once eligible, OCI cardholders can enroll for Aadhaar just like any Indian resident, by visiting an official Aadhaar enrollment center.
Documents Required for OCI Applicants
While applying, applicants must carry the appropriate documents:
- Proof of Identity (POI): A valid OCI card and a passport issued by their foreign country.
- Proof of Address (POA): Any document accepted by UIDAI that includes a valid Indian address.
These documents are essential for verifying both identity and residency status during the enrollment process.
How an OCI Aadhaar Differs from a Citizen’s Aadhaar
The Aadhaar card issued to an OCI cardholder is not permanent, unlike that of an Indian citizen. Its validity depends on the applicant’s nationality or visa type:
- For long-term visa or visa holders, Aadhaar’s validity is tied to the duration of the visa.
- For OCI cardholders and citizens of Nepal or Bhutan, the Aadhaar is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.
This distinction ensures that Aadhaar remains a valid identifier only during the holder’s authorized stay in India.
What Makes Aadhaar Important
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by UIDAI that serves as an official document verifying identity and address in India. It links an individual’s demographic and biometric information, making it a trusted, all-purpose identity across government and private sectors—whether for opening bank accounts, accessing subsidies, or completing KYC verifications.
