Can I Apply for Aadhaar During a Short India Visit?

You can also use an address other than the one printed in your Indian passport, provided you have acceptable proof of that address.

UIDAI specifically says an NRI can provide another Indian address with a valid Proof of Address document if the passport address isn't the address they want to use.

One thing I'd check before visiting is whether the particular enrolment centre is currently accepting new enrollments and what documents they want you to bring.

Also, don't assume an international mobile number will work for every Aadhaar-related service. UIDAI says an international mobile number can be provided, but SMS messages won't be delivered to international/non-Indian mobile numbers.

I applied as an NRI and had a similar concern about the 182-day rule.

The important distinction is between an NRI and a foreign national. UIDAI's rules are different for the two categories.

For an NRI, the 182-day residential condition isn't mandatory. UIDAI says an NRI with a valid Indian passport can enroll from any Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.

For a foreign national residing in India, there is a different requirement. UIDAI says resident foreign nationals generally need to have resided in India for at least 182 days in the 12 months immediately before applying.

So if you are still an Indian citizen and simply live abroad, your situation is different from someone who is a foreign citizen visiting India.

If you're an NRI with a valid Indian passport, the 182-day residence condition is not mandatory for Aadhaar enrollment.

UIDAI specifically says that an NRI, whether an adult or minor, with a valid Indian passport can apply for Aadhaar at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.

So being in India for only a few weeks doesn't automatically prevent an NRI from enrolling.

You'll still need to visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre in person because your photograph, fingerprints and iris information are captured during enrollment. UIDAI also says a valid Indian passport is mandatory as proof of identity for NRI applicants.

I would check the current list of acceptable supporting documents before going, especially if you want to use an Indian address different from the one in your passport.