Can OCI Cardholders Get an Aadhaar Card? Know the Rules

G GOWTHAM
The Aadhaar card has become essential for almost every official and financial activity in india, from banking to government schemes. Many Overseas Citizen of india (OCI) cardholders often wonder if they are eligible to obtain an Aadhaar card. Here’s what the rules say.

What is an OCI Card?

  • OCI Full Form: Overseas Citizen of India
  • Purpose: Allows foreign nationals of indian origin to live and work in india indefinitely.
  • Benefits:
    • Multiple-entry, lifelong visa to India
    • Exemption from registration with FRRO for long stays
    • Certain economic, educational, and social benefits
Despite these privileges, OCI cardholders are not considered indian citizens.

Aadhaar Eligibility Rules

The Aadhaar Act 2016 outlines who can obtain an Aadhaar card:

  • Eligible: indian citizens and residents of india who have lived in india for more than 182 days in the 12 months preceding the application.
  • Not Eligible:
    • Foreign nationals, including OCI cardholders, are not eligible for Aadhaar.
    • Only indian residents, including PIO (Persons of indian Origin who are indian citizens), can apply.
In short, holding an OCI card does not grant Aadhaar eligibility.

Why OCI Cardholders Cannot Get Aadhaar

Citizenship Requirement: Aadhaar is primarily for Indian citizens and residents, not foreign citizens.

Identification Purposes: Aadhaar is used for government subsidies, schemes, and legal identification, which are tied to indian residency or citizenship.

Existing Alternatives: OCI cardholders can use their OCI card, passport, or PAN card for most official tasks in India.

Workarounds and Important Points

  • Banking & Financial Transactions: OCI cardholders can open bank accounts using passport and OCI card.
  • Government Services: Some schemes may allow access using OCI card and other documents, but Aadhaar-specific schemes remain restricted.
  • Tax Compliance: OCI cardholders can obtain a PAN card for taxation purposes.
Conclusion

OCI cardholders cannot obtain an Aadhaar card as per current rules. While Aadhaar is essential for many services, OCI cardholders can still access banking, investment, and government facilities using their OCI card, passport, and PAN. Anyone holding an OCI card must rely on these documents instead of Aadhaar for official and financial matters in India.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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