Aadhaar Card Application for US Citizens Born in India: Fact vs Perception

Introduction

The Aadhaar card, a unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), functions as a primary identity document for residents in India. Traditionally, Aadhaar was designed for individuals residing in India, but the complexity surrounding its application for individuals born in India but currently citizens of the United States raises questions about eligibility.

Eligibility and Key Points

Individuals born in India but currently citizens of the United States have the potential to apply for an Aadhaar card, but this is subject to several conditions related to residency. Here are the key points to consider:

Residency Requirement

In order to apply for an Aadhaar card, the applicant must demonstrate proof of residency in India. This typically means that the person must reside in India for a certain period of time, as Aadhaar is intended primarily for residents of India.

Documents Needed

The application process involves submitting various documents, including:

Proof of identity: This can include documents such as a passport or birth certificate issued by India. Proof of address: This verifies the applicant's address in India, which is essential for identity verification. Biometric data: Fingerprint and iris scan submission is a standard requirement.

Indian Citizenship

Even if the applicant was born in India, their current US citizenship status may impact their eligibility. If they have not maintained residency in India or do not have a valid address there, they may not be eligible to apply for an Aadhaar card.

Practical Considerations

While theoretically, individuals who are not Indian citizens are not eligible for an Aadhaar card, practical insights suggest that there are some workarounds under certain conditions. Here’s a breakdown:

Citizenship Status and Residency

Even though it is not strictly required, holding any Indian identity document – such as a driver’s license, PAN card, or voter’s ID card – can help. When enrolling for an Aadhaar card, you can use an Indian identity document without declaring that you are a US citizen. Many foreign nationals of Indian origin have successfully used this approach to secure an Aadhaar card.

Real-Life Examples and Tips

One eyewitness account illustrates the successful application of an Aadhaar card by a non-Indian citizen:

At the Aadhaar enrollment center, simply present an Indian identity document (one is sufficient). Avoid declaring that you are not an Indian citizen while enrolling. No additional forms or paperwork are required.

Conclusion

While the official stance is that only Indian citizens can apply for an Aadhaar card, there are practical ways for individuals born in India but citizens of the United States to obtain one. The key is to leverage any existing Indian identity documents to simplify the process. Awareness of these practical insights can help streamline the application process and ensure that individuals born in India but living in the US do not miss out on the benefits of having an Aadhaar card.