The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) issues the Aadhaar card which is a 12-digit unique identification number assigned to all residents of India. Residents get this number by providing their biometric and demographic details at the various government-authorized Aadhaar Enrolment Centres or Aadhaar Seva Kendras (ASKs). Read below to know everything about the Aadhar card.

Get Free Credit Report with monthly updates. Check Now
Jump Directly to:
- Eligibility for Aadhaar Card Enrolment
- Documents Required for Aadhar Enrolment
- How to Apply for Aadhaar Card
- How to Check Aadhar Application Status Online
- How to Download or Print e-Aadhaar Card Online
- How to Link PAN with Aadhar Card
- How to Update or Change Address in Aadhaar Without Document Proof
- Process to Link Aadhaar with Bank Account
- How to Lock/Unlock your Biometrics
- Benefits of Aadhaar Card
- UIDAI Aadhar Card Services
- Find More About Aadhaar Card
- FAQs on Aadhaar Card
- Latest News on Aadhaar Card
Eligibility for Aadhaar Card Enrolment
The purpose of issuing Aadhaar by UIDAI to the residents of India was to provide them with a document that can be used as unique identity proof for various purposes. It is more than just an identification number. However, the eligibility to avail an Aadhaar Card is not just limited to Indians.
The eligibility criteria for Aadhaar enrolment are as follows:
- The applicant is an Indian citizen residing in India, or
- The applicant is a non-resident Indian residing in India
Aadhaar Card for Resident Indians
Every Indian citizen can apply for an Aadhaar card. Moreover, the Government of India has now made it mandatory for taxpayers to link their PAN with Aadhaar for filing their annual Income Tax Return (ITR).
Aadhaar Card for NRIs
Non-resident Indians (NRIs) including both minors and adults having a valid Indian Passport can apply for Aadhaar card by visiting any Aadhaar Kendra.
To know more about Aadhaar Card for NRIs, click here.
Aadhaar Card for Minors or Baal Aadhaar
Aadhaar enrolment is available even for minors, unlike the voter identification card. To apply for an Aadhaar card for children, you have to provide proof of identity and address of parents. Newborns can also be enrolled for Aadhaar. However, they have to update their biometric data as soon as they turn 5 and 15 years old. The Baal Aadhaar card for children below 5 years is blue in colour.
To know more about Baal Aadhaar, click here
Documents Required for Aadhaar Enrolment
At the time of Aadhaar enrolment, you have to submit the following document proofs – Proof of Address (POA), Proof of Identity (POI), Proof of Relationship (PoR) and Date of Birth (DoB) proof. The most common that are generally used to apply for an Aadhaar Card are given below:
Passport of the applicant | PAN Card | Ration card or PDS Photo Card |
Voter Identification Card | Driving Licence | NREGS Jobs Card |
Photo Bank ATM Card | Voter Identification Card | Certificate of birth of the applicant |
To know the exact list of documents required for Aadhaar card application, click here.
To apply for a new Aadhaar card or update details in your card, you can download the form by visiting the official website, i.e. https://uidai.gov.in or can visit the nearest Aadhaar enrolment centre to submit Aadhaar card enrolment form which is free of cost. You need to submit the form along with the supporting documents to initiate the process of Aadhaar enrolment.
Note: In case you want to update details in your Aadhaar card, you need to pay a charge of Rs. 50 for the demographic and Rs. 100 for the biometric update at the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
How to Apply for Aadhaar Card
Considering the importance of Aadhaar and its various benefits, the next question that arises is – How to get the Aadhaar card? There are systematic protocols and a step by step process which needs to be followed to apply for an Aadhar Card.
The applicant is required to provide the necessary information at the time of Aadhaar enrolment and when such data is verified, the Aadhaar card is generated. You can check the Aadhaar enrolment status online as well.
The step by step application process of the Aadhaar Card is as follows:
1. Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre
2. Fill the Aadhaar Enrollment Form
3. Provide the Photograph and Biometric Data (fingerprint and iris scan)
4. After enrolment, you will now receive an acknowledgement slip containing the enrolment number that can be used to check Aadhar status online as well as through IVR
5. Dispatch of Aadhaar to the Address of the Applicant

Your Credit Score Is Now Absolutely Free Check Now
How to Check Aadhaar Application Status Online?
You can check the Aadhaar Card application status online using ‘Enrolment ID’ which is available in the Aadhaar Acknowledgement Slip containing the 14-digit enrolment number (1234/12345/12345) and 14-digit date and time of enrolment (yyyy/mm/dd hh:mm:ss).
Follow these simple steps to check your Aadhaar enrolment status online:
- Visit the UIDAI website and click on “Check Aadhaar Status” in the “Get Aadhaar” section.
- Enter your enrolment number and security code
- If your Aadhaar is generated, you will get the Aadhaar details and the delivery status
How to Check Aadhaar Update Status Online?
If there are errors in Aadhaar details, people can get them rectified both online and offline. However, you can check the status of the update request online as well. Follow these simple steps to check Aadhaar card update status online:
- In the “Update Aadhaar” section, click on “Check Aadhaar Update Status”
- Enter your Service Request Number or SRN generated at the time of updating
- You will be able to see the Aadhaar update status online
Click here to know in detail how to check Aadhaar application status online
How to Download or Print e-Aadhaar Card Online
Once the Aadhaar card status enquiry shows that your Aadhaar number is generated, it is dispatched to your residential address. However, you can download your Aadhaar online as well. There are various ways through which you can get your Aadhar card. They are using:
- Aadhaar Number
- Name and Date of Birth
- Without Registered Mobile Number
- Enrolment Number (EID)
- Virtual ID
- DigiLocker Account
- Umang App
Note: You can print the downloaded e-Aadhaar card and use it as your original Aadhaar till the original Aadhaar reaches you. The e-Aadhar card is also acceptable at all places.
Also Read: How to Download Aadhaar Card
PVC Aadhaar Card
UIDAI has now permitted the Aadhaar Card to be reprinted as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) card. You can apply for the Aadhaar PVC card online by paying a nominal fee of Rs. 50 (inclusive of GST and Speed Post charges). The Aadhaar PVC card is comparatively more durable, comes with a host of security features and is a valid form of Aadhaar.
To know more about PVC Aadhaar Card, click here.
How to Link PAN with Aadhaar?
The Union Government of India has made it mandatory for people to link their PAN with Aadhaar for filing ‘Income Tax Return’ under Section 133 AA (2) of the Income Tax Act. As of now, the deadline for linking PAN with Aadhaar card is 31st March 2023. However, if you link PAN with Aadhar card by 30th June 2022, you will have to pay a fee of Rs. 500 whereas the fee would be Rs. 1,000 in case the Aadhar PAN linking is done between 1st July 2022 and 31st March 2023.
The ways to link to PAN with Aadhaar are as follows:
- Linking PAN with Aadhaar through the e-filing website
- Linking of Aadhaar Number and PAN via SMS
How to Change Address in Aadhaar Card Without Any Address Proof
When you shift to a new city or change your house after marriage, you do not have a valid address proof due to which you can face a lot of problems. However, you can now update your address in Aadhaar card without documents and use it as valid address proof.
This can be done with the help of Aadhaar Address Validation Letter that is provided by the address verifier. The verifier’s address is updated in your Aadhaar card as well. However, no other details of the verifier are imported to your Aadhaar apart from the address. A verifier can be your relative, friend, family member or landlord whoever is willing to provide you his/her address details.
The Process to Link Aadhaar with Bank Account
The Reserve Bank of India made it compulsory for all the bank accounts to be linked with Aadhaar in 2017. However, as per the Supreme Court’s judgement in 2018, it is no longer a compulsion to link your Aadhaar with the bank account.
However, in case you want to link Aadhaar with Bank Account, you can do so via any of the following means given below:
- Link Aadhaar with Bank Account via Internet Banking
- Bank’s Mobile Application
- By Visiting the nearest bank branch
- ATM
- SMS Service
- Mobile Number
Suggested Read: How to link Aadhaar with Bank Account

Get Free Credit Report with Complete Analysis of Credit Score Check Now
How to Lock/Unlock your Biometrics
Aadhaar acts as the proof of identity and proof of address for the citizens of India which are one of most important documents for availing government related services. However, UIDAI provides the security of your Aadhaar by providing the facility to lock/unlock Aadhaar biometric data online. The ways to lock and unlock your Aadhaar biometric data online are as follows:
- Lock/Unlock Aadhaar Biometric through UIDAI
- Lock/Unlock Aadhaar Biometric via mAdhaar app
Aadhaar Card Benefits
The Government of India issues an Aadhaar number to every Indian citizen which acts as a proof of identity everywhere in the country. There are a range of benefits of having an Aadhaar card, as mentioned below:
Identity Card
Aadhaar is an identity card accepted by all government and non-government organisations even though it is not a citizenship document. It not only has the photograph of the card holder but also contains biometric details like fingerprints and iris image. Aadhaar card also contains a QR code that can be scanned to verify whether the details mentioned in the card are correct or not.
Proof of Address/Residence
Aadhar card contains the residential address of the card holder. It can thus be used as a proof of residence for various governmental as well as non-governmental verification processes. Aadhaar is also considered a valid proof of residence when applying for various financial products like share market investments, mutual funds, home loan, personal loan, credit card, etc. as well as for availing financial services such as filing ITR.
Government Subsidy
The government has made it compulsory for people to link their bank accounts with Aadhaar to avail subsidies under different schemes. In order to get the subsidy directly in the bank account for schemes such as Pahal, Atal Pension Yojna, kerosene subsidy, school subsidy, food subsidies and others, people have to mandatorily furnish their Aadhaar.
Bank Accounts
Aadhaar has become a key document along with PAN for opening bank accounts these days. These days banks need only Aadhaar card and PAN to open a bank account for the applicant. Jan Dhan accounts also need Aadhaar of the applicant. However, it is not compulsory to link your bank account with an Aadhar card.
Income Tax
The Income Tax Department has made it compulsory for taxpayers to link Aadhaar to PAN. Aadhaar would now mandatorily be required while paying income tax and filing returns otherwise the ITR application of the taxpayer would not be processed. The deadline for linking Aadhaar with PAN has been extended to 31st March 2023.
Phone Connection
Almost all telecom companies provide phone connections after accepting Aadhaar as proof of identity and address. Once Aadhaar is provided, the connection gets activated in the least possible time.
Gas Connection
People have to provide their Aadhaar for getting a new gas connection. In case they want to avail subsidy on their present gas connection, they will have to fill the KYC form and link Aadhaar with their bank account to get subsidy directly in their account under the Pahal (DBTL) scheme.
Mutual Fund
Using the Aadhar Card, you could earlier complete e-KYC for mutual fund investments as mandated by SEBI. Even though the earlier e-KYC process is no longer operational, the investment account opening process is simplified in case you have your Aadhar card.
Note: The current limit for complete e-KYC for mutual fund accounts is Rs 50,000 per year per fund. To override this limitation, in-person biometric verification needs to be completed by the investor.
UIDAI Aadhaar Card Services
- You can download an Aadhaar card online from the official website of UIDAI
- You can check Aadhaar card status if your Aadhaar is generated after enrolment or not
- You can easily locate Aadhaar Enrolment/ Update Centre in your area in case you want to visit there to update your details via UIDAI online portal
- If you forget/misplace your Aadhaar/Enrolment number, you can retrieve lost UID/EID online quite easily
- You can update your address online by visiting the UIDAI’s portal free of cost
- You can also verify Aadhaar number of a resident through the online portal
- A resident can lock and unlock Aadhaar biometrics online as well as through the mAadhaar app
- Aadhaar-bank account linking status can be checked by an employee online
- You can track all authentication requests in the past 6 months by checking Aadhaar authentication history
- To protect your Aadhaar and provide an added layer of security, you can generate or retrieve your Aadhaar Virtual ID against Aadhaar number
Find More about Aadhaar Card
The Aadhaar program was launched by the former prime minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, in 2009. In April 2010, Nandan Nilekani, who was appointed as the Chairman of UIDAI on June 23rd 2009, launched the logo and the brand name “Aadhaar”.
Aadhaar is a Hindi word that means ‘base’ or ‘foundation’. Currently, Mr. Pankaj Kumar is the CEO of UIDAI/Aadhaar. On September 29, 2010, Ranjana Sonawane from Nandurbar district of Maharashtra state became the first Indian to receive the Aadhaar card. Find out more about Aadhaar card below:
What is UIDAI?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) provides a unique identity to every individual residing in India, which now acts as a centre point of most of the government schemes. The organisation works under the central government and has its data centre at IMT Manesar, Haryana.
How to Fill Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form?
Applicants have to fill the Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form if they want to enrol for Aadhaar or they want to make corrections in their existing Aadhaar. The duly filled Aadhaar card correction/enrolment form should be submitted to process the request.
Also Read: How to Fill Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form
How to verify your Aadhaar Card?
Aadhaar card verification is done to check whether an Aadhaar is valid or not. To verify Aadhaar online, you have to do the following:
Step 1: Visit the UIDAI website and click on “Verify Aadhaar Number”
Step 2: Enter the Aadhaar number you want to verify
Step 3: Enter the security code
Step 4: If the Aadhar number is valid, then the age band, gender, state and last two digits of the registered mobile number of the holder can be seen on the screen
Step 5: In case the Aadhaar number is not valid, a message is displayed stating that the Aadhaar number does not exist
Apart from this, now you can also verify your Aadhaar card offline using a sharable document issued by UIDAI. To know more about Aadhaar offline verification, click here.
What to do if you have lost your Aadhaar Card?
In case you have lost your original Aadhaar card, you can download it online through the UIDAI website, print it and use it as the normal Aadhar card. You can search for an Aadhaar card by name, email and mobile number and download it online. Alternatively, you can install the mAadhaar app on your smartphone and use it in place of your original Aadhaar card.

A Good Credit Score can help in getting Loan Approvals Easily Check Now
FAQs on Aadhaar Card
Q. What is the validity of my downloaded Aadhaar Card?
Ans. Once you download the Aadhaar Card, it is valid for your entire life.
Q. What is Aadhaar authentication and what are its benefits?
Ans. Aadhaar authentication is the process of the verification of demographic, biometric and other information submitted to the CIDR authorities for verification. The benefit of authenticated Aadhaar is that it helps in establishing identity, improving efficiency and transparency in service delivery, demographic and address verification in future.
Q. How to link an Aadhaar Number with a Bank Account?
Ans. The government of India in 2017 made it mandatory for the applicants to link Aadhaar with Bank accounts, but it was later ruled out by the Supreme Court in 2018 that it is no longer mandatory to link Aadhaar card with bank account. However, banks have provided various options through which account holders can link their accounts with Aadhaar card. Some of the methods to link Aadhaar with bank accounts are –
- Bank’s mobile app,
- Internet banking,
- Through IVR,
- By visiting the ATM or
- By visiting the bank’s branch.
Q. How to link Aadhar Number with PAN?
Ans. You can link your PAN with Aadhaar either online or through SMS:
- Aadhaar can be linked online by visiting
https://incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in/e-Filing/Services/LinkAadhaarPrelogin.html. - You can also link your PAN with Aadhaar through SMS. Type a message in the format UIDPAN<12 digit Aadhaar><10 digit PAN> and send the SMS to either 567678 or 56161.
Q. How to link an Aadhar Number with your ration card?
Ans. Linking Aadhaar with a ration card enables easy transfer of PDS benefits to your bank account (if applicable). In order to link your Aadhaar with ration card, you have to follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest PDS centre/ration shop
- Provide the self-attested copy of your and your family members’ Aadhaar
- Now provide a self-attested copy of your ration card.
- You will also have to provide your bank account details in case you have not linked it with Aadhaar.
- Now provide your fingerprints for biometric authentication.
Q. How to link Aadhar Number with EPF Account?
Ans. Linking your EPF account/UAN with Aadhaar allows you to access your EPF account online. Here’s how to do it:
- Register on the EPF member portal and login to your account
- In the KYC section, add your Aadhaar details and submit the form
- Your request will appear under pending KYC
- Once approved by EPFO, it will be viewed under approved KYC
- On successful verification by UIDAI, “Verified” will be mentioned against your approved Aadhaar.
Q. When do I need to authenticate Aadhaar Number?
Ans. You need to authenticate Aadhaar for the verification of identity under different schemes like PDS, NREGA, etc. Beneficiaries are required to authenticate Aadhaar either at the time of applying for such schemes or at the time of availing benefits.
Q. What is a Masked Aadhaar Card?
Ans. This is the latest option for the citizens to mask their Aadhaar cards in downloaded e-Aadhaar in which the first 8 digits are replaced with characters like ‘XXXX-XXXX’ and only shows the last four digits of the Aadhaar number.
Q. From where can I authenticate Aadhar Number?
Ans. The request to authenticate Aadhaar can be placed at the point of service delivery by various agencies. Some of these are self-service kiosks whereas others are operator-managed. Examples of such authentication points are FPS shops, bank terminals, NREGA centres, etc.
Q. How can I know if my Aadhar number is linked with my bank account?
Ans. UIDAI has provided a facility to check whether a bank account is linked with Aadhaar or not. Users can visit https://resident.uidai.gov.in/bank-mapper and login using their Aadhaar number and OTP to check the linkage.
Q. My mobile number is not registered in Aadhaar, how can I get my mobile number updated in Aadhaar?
Ans. In order to get your mobile number linked with an Aadhaar card, you have to visit one of the Aadhaar Enrolment Centres and submit a request for mobile phone updation. Once the request is submitted, the mobile number will be linked with Aadhaar.
Q. How can I know if my update request has been processed?
Ans. Whenever a person files an updation request, he gets a URN after successful submission of the form. He can track the request with the help of this URN.
Q. From where do I download the m-Aadhaar App?
Ans. m-Aadhaar app can be downloaded from the Google Playstore or App Store.
Q. Is it necessary to link a bank account with Aadhaar?
Ans. No. It is not mandatory to link a bank account with Aadhaar as long as you have provided any of the other key KYC documents such as PAN, Driving License, Voter ID card, Passport etc.
Q. How to update address in your Aadhaar?
Ans. You can update the address in your Aadhaar card online as well as offline. The online process is free of cost whereas you have to pay a charge of Rs. 50 to update your address in Aadhaar by visiting the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
Q. How to change mobile number in Aadhaar card?
Ans. You can change your mobile number in your Aadhaar card by visiting the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
Q. What is the URN number in Aadhaar Card?
Ans. Whenever you file a request for updation or correction of details in your Aadhaar online, an Update Request Number (URN) is provided after successful submission of the application. You can use this URN to track the updation process.
Q. How to check Aadhaar Card update or correction status?
Ans. Aadhar details may sometimes be wrong or may need to be updated. It might take some time to make the correction after a request is made. In order to check Aadhaar update status or correction status, you can visit the official UIDAI website. However, you will have to provide the Update Request Number (URN) to track the status of your update request.
Q. How to get a duplicate Aadhaar Card?
Ans. In order to get a duplicate Aadhar card, you must follow the steps mentioned below:
- You can call the toll free number 1800-180-1947 and follow the IVR.
- You can download e-Aadhaar from UIDAI’s website and print it to use it in place of Aadhaar.
Q. What to do if an Aadhaar Card is not received?
Ans. In case you check the status of Aadhaar on the website and find that it has been dispatched but the Aadhaar card is not received at your end, you can download the e-Aadhaar from UIDAI’s website using your enrolment number or you can place a request for sending the Aadhar card again.
Q. Can I e-file a tax return without an Aadhaar number?
Ans. E-filing a tax return without Aadhaar is not possible according to the current norms. The government has made it mandatory to link PAN and Aadhaar. In case PAN and Aadhaar are not linked, the e-filing of return would not be processed.
Q. I am not in India and I don’t have an Aadhar Card. Can I apply for an Aadhaar card from outside India?
Ans. No. You cannot apply for Aadhaar from outside of India as it is mandatory to provide biometric details at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre, which is located in India. Additionally, you need to have a residential address in India if you want to apply for an Aadhaar card.
[Also read about: PAN Card]

Checking Credit Report monthly has no impact on Credit Score Check Now
Latest News on Aadhaar Card
Election Commission to Start a Drive to Link Aadhaar Card with Voter ID
5-08-2022- Starting 1 August 2022, the Election Commission (EC) of India has decided to launch a new drive to link Voter id cards with Aadhaar cards in several states. The move has been brought in place to establish the identity of electors and authentication of entries in the electoral roll. It will also help in the identification of registration of the name of the same person in more than one constituency or more than once in the same constituency.
Voters can link their Aadhaar with their Voter id card by filling up form-6B available online at nvsp.in. They can submit the form either after self-authenticating their Aadhaar using the OTP received on their mobile number registered with UIDAI or may submit form-6B along with required enclosures online without self-authentication. However, linking Aadhaar with Voter id card is not mandatory and voters’ names will not be deleted from the voters’ list as providing Aadhaar card by voters is voluntary.
UIDAI’s New Mobile App AadhaarFaceRd Lets You Perform Face Authentication Anytime Anywhere
22-07-2022- With UIDAI’s newly launched AadhaarFaceRd app Aadhaar card holders no longer carry physical identification using fingerprint and iris scans by physically visiting their local Aadhaar enrollment centre. Their identities, including their Aadhaar numbers and all biometric and demographic data are stored in the Central Identity Data Repository using face authentication. This live face authentication app can be used to verify residents’ identities by various Aadhaar authentication apps like Jeevan Praman, PDS, scholarship schemes, COWIN and farmer welfare schemes.
Centre Tells Ministries to Use Aadhaar Based Direct Benefit Transfer for All Welfare Schemes
15-07-2022- To eliminate data duplication, fake beneficiaries and ensure smooth disbursal of benefits to beneficiaries, the central government has ordered all ministries and departments to use Aadhaar-based Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for all welfare schemes. Under DBT, the subsidy is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries and helps increase the transparency in the system. Moreover, Aadhaar helps in the cost-effective authentication of beneficiaries on a real-time basis, eliminate fake beneficiaries by removing duplication of records and can also be used as a financial address as more than 77 crore bank accounts are linked with Aadhaar.
Child’s Aadhaar Not Mandatory to Avail Benefits of the Government’s Nutrition Scheme
In response to a media report which claimed that children will soon mandatorily require an Aadhaar id to avail benefits of the government’s Poshan scheme, the Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry has clarified that the child’s Aadhaar card is not mandatory to access benefits of the nutrition scheme and the same can be accessed by registering the mother’s Aadhaar card on the Poshan tracker app. The same has also been clarified by a Press Information Bureau fact-check in a recent tweet.
Aadhaar to Soon Cover Indian Citizens’ Entire Life Cycle
16-06-2022- In order to deepen its reach across the country, UIDAI plans to launch two new pilot programmes with the aim of covering Indian citizens’ entire lifecycle. The move seeks to provide a temporary Aadhaar number to newborns which will be renewed with biometric data on attainment of majority. This will help to ensure that no one is left out of the social security net and children and families benefit from government programmes. UIDAI also aims to link Aadhaar numbers with death registration records to prevent the misuse of government benefits through the use of deceased person’s Aadhaar numbers.
UIDAI to Roll Out Door-to-door Aadhaar Sewa; Training 48,000 Postman for the Same
7-06-2022- The UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) is training around 48,000 India Post Payment Bank (IPPB) postmen to carry out door-to-door Aadhaar services such as linking Aadhaar with mobile numbers, updating details and conducting Aadhaar enrolment for children across the remotest corners of the country.
As part of its expansion plan, UIDAI is also looking to onboard around 13,000 CSC (Common Service Centre) banking correspondents to carry out doorstep Aadhaar services, open an Aadhaar Seva Kendra in all 755 districts of the country and ‘mini’ Aadhaar Sewa Kendras in all the 7224 blocks of the country. All of this will help in easier and faster collection and updation of Aadhaar data
Quoting Aadhaar or PAN Mandatory for Withdrawals/Deposits over Rs. 20 Lakh or Opening a Current A/C
11-05-2022- As per a recent government update, it is now mandatory to quote your PAN or Aadhaar when withdrawing or depositing over Rs. 20 lakh in a financial year or when opening a current account. The move has been brought in place by the Central Board of Direct Taxes to increase the transparency of financial transactions, trace the movement of cash in the system and get tax evaders under the tax net.
Aadhaar-Ration Card Linking Deadline Extended Till 30th June 2022
28-03-2022- As per a recent update, the Aadhaar-Ration Card linking deadline has been extended by another 3 months in order to enable maximum citizens to complete the process. Earlier the last date for linking Aadhaar with Ration Card was 31st March 2022, which has now been extended till 30th June 2022.
Aadhaar Tweak to Enable Auto Update of Key DigiLocker Documents
17-03-2022- As per a recent update, in order to make updates in documents easier, UIDAI is coordinating with various government departments to effect changes in documents stored in DigiLocker following an update in the user’s Aadhaar.
The transport ministry and UIDAI have already started this initiative, permitting those with their driving licenses stored in DigiLocker to get their address updated through consent after they update their address in Aadhaar. Next in line is PAN for which UIDAI is coordinating with the Income Tax department to exercise a similar initiative.
UIDAI to Open 166 Aadhaar Sewa Kendras (ASKs) for Aadhaar Enrolment and Update
21-02-2022 – Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the organization responsible for issuing and managing Aadhaar cards, has decided to open a total of 166 standalone Aadhaar Sewa Kendras (ASKs) to facilitate easy Aadhaar enrolment and update. These ASKs are in addition to more than 52,000 centres operated in banks and post offices.
55 ASKs have already started to function and more than 70 lakh customers have been served. All services related to the Aadhaar card can be availed in these centres. However, if you need an Aadhaar card, you can order Aadhaar PVC card online at a nominal fee of Rs. 50.
Update/Change Name, Address, DOB, Gender and Language in Aadhaar Card Online
25-11-2021- As per a recent update, Aadhaar cardholders can now change/update their demographic details including their name (minor changes), address, date of birth, gender and language online through the UIDAI official website. The online process requires Aadhaar cardholders to pay a non-refundable fee of Rs. 50 when they request an update. However, details like mobile number, email and biometrics data can only be updated by visiting the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
Government Issues New Rules for Aadhaar Offline Verification
15-11-2021- As per a recent update, Aadhaar number holders can now get their Aadhaar verification done online as well as offline. The detailed process for offline Aadhaar verification has been laid down on the UIDAI website and allows people to get their Aadhaar verification done offline by sharing a digitally signed document generated by UIDAI with an authorised agency to match with the information in the central database.
This means that apart from existing online Aadhaar verification methods like demographic, multi-factor, biometric and one-time pin-based authentication, people can now also opt for offline verification of their Aadhaar for e-KYC (Know Your Customer) process. Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC verification, QR Code verification, e-Aadhaar verification, offline paper-based verification are the different methods using which people can get their Aadhaar Verification done offline. Read more
PAN-Aadhaar Linking Deadline Extended Till 31st March 2022
29-10-2021- On 17th September 2021, the Central Government has extended the Aadhaar-PAN linking deadline by another 6 months in view of the challenges faced by people due to the covid-19 pandemic. Earlier the last date for linking of Aadhaar number with PAN was 30th September 2021, which has now been extended till 31st March 2022.
Aadhaar Reprint Service and Address Validation Letter Service Are No Longer Available
27-08-2021- As per a recent update, UIDAI will no longer offer the facility to update one’s address in the Aadhaar card using an Address Validation Letter and the option has been removed from UIDAI’s official website. However, residents can update their address using other acceptable address proofs like passport, PAN card, driving license, voter’s ID, etc.
Furthermore, UIDAI has also discontinued the service of reprinting one’s Aadhaar card in the old format and will now only issue PVC cards. The decision has been made on the grounds that the new debit-card sized ID-proof is just as effective and more portable. However, residents can order Aadhaar PVC Card online or simply take a printout of their e-Aadhaar.
News Archive
Birth Certificate No Longer Mandatory for Baal Aadhaar Card
29-07-2021- As per UIDAI’s recent update, parents can now apply for Baal Aadhaar card of their newly born baby without the child’s birth certificate. They can simply submit the discharge certificate of the hospital along with Aadhaar card of any one of the parents to enroll the child for a Baal Aadhaar.
UIDAI Discontinues the Aadhaar Reprint Service
04-05-2021- As per a recent update, UIDAI has announced via its official Aadhaar Help Centre Twitter handle that it will no longer offer the Aadhaar Reprint service. However, one can opt for a new Aadhaar PVC card by applying online. Read more
Central Government Extends PAN-Aadhaar Linking Deadline to 30th June 2021
1-Apr-2021- On March 31, Central Government has extended the deadline for linking of Aadhaar number with PAN to 30th June 2021, in view of the rising difficulties of the covid-19 pandemic. However, in case you fail to link your PAN with Aadhaar by the deadline, your PAN will become inoperative and you will be liable to pay a penalty. Also, once your PAN becomes inoperative you will not be able to conduct financial transactions until you link your PAN with Aadhaar.
Free and Instant PAN Card Through Aadhaar Card
24-03-2021 – The Income Tax Department now permits you to avail your PAN Card instantly and absolutely free of cost using your valid Aadhaar card number through its official online portal. Once the request is submitted, the applicant can check the status of his/ her request using a valid Aadhaar number and on successful allotment can download the PAN Card in PDF format. The applicant will also get a copy of the PAN on the email id registered with the Aadhaar database.
However, when ordering instant PAN through Aadhaar, the applicant must ensure that he/ she has a valid Aadhaar Card, which is not linked to any other PAN. The applicant should also make sure that their mobile number is registered with Aadhaar and they do not possess another PAN.
UIDAI Reiterates Aadhaar Letter, e-Aadhaar & PVC Card being Equally Valid
23-10-2020 –As per the recent update by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), ‘Aadhaar Letter, eAadhaar and PVC card are equally valid’ and individuals can now easily choose any form of Aadhaar as a proof of identity as per their convenience. However, it should be noted that it has to be validated without giving any preference to one form of Aadhaar Card over the other.
Aadhaar Letter is delivered via post and once it is generated, the same is intimated via SMS on the registered mobile number. e-Aadhaar can be simply downloaded through UIDAI portal and the PVC Aadhaar Card which can be ordered online and is backed up by the latest security features such as a hologram, Guilloche Pattern, ghost image, and microtext.
The Department of Telecom has allowed Aadhaar for Online Verification of Mobile Connections
29-09-2020: The use of Aadhaar Card/Virtual ID has been allowed by the Department of Telecom (DoT) for the purpose of online verification i.e. for e-KYC services for issuing new mobile connections to consumers, including outstation customers, and for bulk activations. It will be an alternate process for all the licensed service areas including the states like J&K, North East, and Assam. Also, the existing provisions for identifying customers shall be continued in the same way. Read more
Aadhaar-Ration Linking Extended till 30th September 2020
13-05-2020- Due to the current nationwide lockdown, the date for linking Aadhaar with Ration Card has now been extended till 30th September by the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution for all the states and UTs.
In case the applicant is not able to provide Aadhaar Number on or before the deadline, his/her ration card will not be cancelled. It is also worth mentioning that no beneficiary will be denied ration if the person cannot furnish his Aadhaar card on the spot during the lockdown period.
The process of linking Aadhaar with Ration Card can be done both online and offline. However, the online linking facility differs from state to state. Read more
UIDAI Permits Common Service Centres to Update Aadhaar Details
05-05-2020 –The Common Service Centres have now been allowed to update Aadhaar at 20,000 centres by UIDAI that run as Banking Correspondents (BCs). However, these centres are not allowed to take requests for Aadhaar from the new applicants. CSCs work in addition to Aadhaar Enrolment Centres that function from either bank branches or post offices.
Moreover, Aadhaar Update will be done per the guidelines of UIDAI. Around 20 crore Aadhaarcards have been made available to applicants by CSCs since services were interrupted, but many could not get their Aadhaar Authentication Services completed in the rural area. Now amid the nation-wide lockdown, it will be easy and convenient for the applicants to update Aadhaar at these Common Service Centres instead of visiting bank branch/post offices.
The date of linking Aadhaar with PAN has also been extended to 31st March 2021.
UIDAI launches 28 Aadhaar Seva Kendra across the country
02-Jan-2020– The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has set up an exclusive single-stop destination ‘Aadhaar Seva Kendra’ or ‘ASK’ for all aadhaar services for its Indian citizens. With this exclusive set up, the UIDAI will offer Aadhaar Enrolment and update related to Aadhaar services. In its first phase, the UIDAI has planned to set up 114 Aadhaar Seva Kendra across 53 cities all over India of which 28 ASK has been opened. These include metro cities, state capitals and Union Territories. Aadhaar Seva Kendra will run along with 35,000 Aadhar Kendras which is already being run by banks, post offices, BSNL and state governments.
The ASK will be opened for all 7 days a week from 9:30 A.M to 5:30 P.M. Apart from Aadhaar Seva Kendra, the UIDAI has also launched the online appointment booking facility for all its residents where they can book an appointment for aadhaar enrolment and update all aadhaar services.
Income Tax Department Extends the deadline for PAN-Aadhaar Linking to 31st March 2020
31-Dec-2019- On December 31, Income Tax Department has extended the deadline to link Aadhaar and PAN to 31st March 2020.
Income Tax Department Confirms Dec 31 as a deadline for PAN-Aadhaar Linking
15-Dec-2019- On December 15, Income Tax Department has announced that it is mandatory to link PAN card with Aadhaar card by December 31, 2019, from the earlier September 30 deadline. After this announcement, the Income Tax Department has said, “If someone fails to meet PAN-Aadhaar linking deadline, their income tax return or ITR will get rejected and their PAN card will become inoperative.”
Reprinted Aadhaar will now be delivered within 15 Days through mAadhaar App
13-Dec-2019- The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that people can now order to reprint Aadhaar from their mAadhaar App other than visiting the official website of UIDAI. The authority launched the latest version of mAadhaar App which can be downloaded by both-Android and iOS users. For getting this reprint, Aadhaar cardholders are required to pay a service charge of ₹50, and the reprinted Aadhaar will be delivered within 15 days to the registered address mentioned in your Aadhaar.
Union Cabinet Passes the Aadhaar Ordinance for Voluntary KYC Use
1-March-2019 – Union cabinet has approved the Aadhaar ordinance that allows people to voluntarily furnish their Aadhaar card for opening a bank account or applying for a new SIM card. The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed in the Lok Sabha on 4th January but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. The ordinance makes provision for hefty fine and also imprisonment up to 3 years in some cases for violating rules defined in the ordinance.
Linking PAN with Aadhaar Still Mandatory: Supreme Court
7-February-2019 – The Supreme Court of India has clarified that taxpayers have to link their PAN card with Aadhaar. The judgement was passed in the light of Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act under which the government has made it mandatory to provide Aadhaar at the time of filing Income Tax Returns. The last date for linking PAN with Aadhar is set to 31st March 2019 by CBDT.
UIDAI Allows Banks to Continue AEPS Transaction
04-Dec-2018 – UIDAI has allowed banks to continue providing AEPS (Aadhaar Enabled Payment System) facilities to account holders. Some banks had terminated the AEPS service owing to the Supreme Court’s decision on the constitutional validity of Aadhaar. After the approval of UIDAI, banks will be able to provide these facilities to the beneficiaries of government welfare schemes through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Supreme Court Restores the Constitutional Validity of Aadhaar
27-Sep-2018 – The 5-judges constitutional bench of Supreme Court has given the judgement that Aadhaar is a constitutional valid document and it will still be mandatory for new PAN cards as well as at the time of filing Income Tax Returns (ITR). However, the Supreme Court has said that Aadhaar will not be mandatory for opening bank accounts, new mobile connections, school admissions, etc. Even private companies cannot ask for Aadhaar card of their customers.
Plastic Aadhaar Cards can Make QR Code Dysfunctional, Says UIDAI
24-Sep-2018 – The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has said that a plastic Aadhaar card can often become unusable because of the lamination, which can make the QR code dysfunctional. The Aadhaar body said a print out of the Aadhaar on an ordinary document or an mAadhaar was a valid document. It also said people should not share their personal details or Aadhaar number with unauthorized agencies as they can be misused by them.
Biometrics Data is now safe with Lock Facility: UIDAI
20-Sep-2018 – The UIDAI has initiated the security measures for Aadhaar card holders to safeguard their biometrics data following the simple process of Enable/Disable Biometric Locking visiting the official portal of Aadhaar. Cardholders need to go online in order to get their processing done. The UIDAI has ensured the safety regarding Aadhaar data leak with initiating the locking facility.
Schools Cannot Deny Admission for Lack of Aadhaar: UIDAI
5-Sep-2018 – On 5 Sept, 2018 government agency UIDAI said that absence of Aadhaar is no longer a hurdle for taking admission in schools for students. “It is the responsibility of schools to provide Aadhaar enrolment and update facility to students to enjoy their due benefits and rights”, said the UIDAI. In an official circular, the UIDAI addressed the Chief Secretaries of State stating that it is aware of instances where some schools are refusing admission in absence of Aadhaar. The UIDAI has also encouraged schools to co-ordinate with the institutions like local banks, post offices, state education department and district administration for special camp facility in the premises to provide Aadhaar enrolment and update facility in the premises.
Enrolment agencies to give free e-Aadhaar printouts in flood-hit Kerala
22-Aug-2018 – The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has asked enrolment agencies, including banks and post offices, to help people in Kerala retrieve their Aadhaar number and get free printouts of the document if they lost it in the floods. Name and biometric authentication of the card holder will be needed to get back the number or document. UIDAI CEO Ajay Bhushan Pandey said enrolment agencies can even visit the relief camps to help people in this direction.
Can’t open bank accounts without biometric/OTP check for Aadhaar: UIDAI
21-Aug-2018 – To open a bank account, just the submission of a physical Aadhaar card or its photocopy without a biometric or OTP authentication would not suffice, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has said. According to RBI circulars, it is mandatory for a bank to go ahead with biometric or OTP authentication before considering Aadhaar for banking transaction or KYC.
UIDAI tells telcos to use face authentication feature from Sept 15
20-Aug-2018 – Aadhaar-issuing body UIDAI has finally announced a phased rollout of face recognition feature as an additional mode of authentication, starting with telecom service providers from September 15. The Authority had earlier planned to roll out face recognition feature from July 1, a target that was later pushed to August 1.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that from September 15, telecom service providers will have to use face recognition feature as an additional mode of authentication.
Correcting date of birth on Aadhaar card more than once Gets Difficult
10-Aug-2018 – Updating the date of birth on an Aadhaar card more than once is going to get difficult. A recent notification by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) says that correction of the date of birth is allowed just once. However, in case of the need of correcting it the second time, a resident will have to visit the Regional Office (RO) of the UIDAI.
Proof of Residence not Needed to Update Aadhar Address from April 2019
3-Aug-2018 – Aadhaar holders without a valid proof of residence of their current location can update their address through a new service that the UIDAI proposes to start from April 1, 2019. By using a letter with a secret PIN, residents can change their address without undergoing any hassle. People staying in rented accommodation often encounter roadblocks in updating their address that prevents them from availing services for which Aadhaar is needed. The new service will make life easy for many such people.
Delhi Government Delinks Aadhaar from the Widow, Old Age Pensions
31-July-2018 – Delhi Government has decided to do away with the requirement of Aadhaar card to avail benefits on widow and old age pension. In a state cabinet meeting, the Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal gave nod to the proposal presented by the Delhi Social Welfare Department for Delhi residents. The Delhi CM claimed that the decision was taken because a lot of people were suffering due to the inability of banks to link Aadhaar with bank accounts. The Social Welfare Department will now remit all pensions stopped due to the lack of Aadhaar.
Deadline for Linking Aadhaar with PAN Extended Till 31st March 2019
16-July-2018 – The Central Board of Direct taxes (CBDT), in a fresh circular dated 30th June 2018, has extended the Aadhaar-PAN linking deadline to 31st March 2019. Earlier, the Income Tax Department had made it compulsory for assessees to link their PAN cards with Aadhaar in order to process their Income Tax Returns (ITR). It was said that the Income Tax Department will not process the ITR forms of assessees whose both documents would not be linked. However, with this fresh extension, assessees who have not been able to link their PAN with Aadhaar have got some respite this year.
UIDAI Launches Aadhaar Update History Feature in Beta Mode
12-June-2018 – UIDAI has launched the facility to check Aadhaar update history online through which a user can check all update requests placed in the past. This will help users to keep a tab on when each update was done and what details were updated. Results are displayed in a detailed tabular format clearly mentioning the name, date of birth, mobile number, email id, gender and address along with the photograph of the user changed after the update.
Aadhaar Linking Deadline for Welfare Schemes Extended till 30th June
29-March-2018 – The government has extended the Aadhaar linking deadline with various welfare schemes from 31st march to 30th June 2018. The Supreme Court had refused to extend the deadline to which the central government provided the respite to those who were not able to enrol for Aadhaar by now. Such people who qualify for different welfare schemes but do not have an Aadhaar can enrol for Aadhaar now and link their documents with Aadhaar before the new deadline ends.
Aadhaar – PAN linking deadline extended to 30th June
28-March-2018 – The Central board of Direct Taxes has extended the Aadhaar-PAN linking deadline from 31st March to 30th June. This outcome has come after the Supreme Court extended the Aadhaar linking deadline with various instruments indefinitely from March 31st while hearing cases against the constitutional validity of Aadhaar. The extension has come as a relief to people who were not able to link their PAN cards with Aadhaar till now.
Supreme Court Denies Extending Aadhaar Linking Deadline of March 31st for Welfare Schemes
28-March-2018 – The Supreme Court has refused to extend the Aadhaar linking deadline with government welfare schemes of March 31st, 2018. Earlier, the five-judge constitution bench, headed by the CJI Dipak Misra, had extended the Aadhaar linking deadline with bank accounts, mobile number and other instruments indefinitely. Now, people who avail benefits under government welfare schemes have to link their Aadhaar with these schemes or they will be deprived of the benefits under these schemes from 1st April 2018.
Face ID to be Used for Aadhaar Authentication From July 1
27-March-2018 – UIDAI has informed the Supreme Court that it is going to start the face ID detection to authenticate Aadhaar for those individuals who have poor biometrics to curb authentication failures in those cases. As per the organisation, they already have the photograph of Aadhaar holders that can be used for authentication. This will help a huge section of senior citizens who, in some cases, are deprived of the pension benefits and provident funds due to unapproved authentications.
Aadhaar Linking Deadline Extended by the Supreme Court
19-March-2018 – The Constitutional bench of Supreme Court headed by the Chief Justice Dipak Mishra has extended the Aadhaar linking deadline indefinitely. Earlier, the last date for linking Aadhaar with various schemes was 31st March 2018. However, Aadhaar will still be mandatory for opening new bank accounts, tatkal passport and availing subsidies under various government schemes.
Aadhaar Linking with Flight Tickets to Enable Faster Airport Entry Soon
23-Nov-2017 – Domestic passengers will soon be able to gain access to the airport terminals faster than normal flyers. They have to just mention their Aadhaar at the time of air-ticket booking,. These passengers will be able to avail seamless travel experience At Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Vijaywada airports from 2018 under the Central Government’s “digi yatra” programme.
IRDAI Makes Aadhaar Linking with Insurance Policies Mandatory
09-Nov-2017 – Insurance regulator IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India) has made Aadhaar linking with insurance policies compulsory. General insurance as well as life insurance companies will have to implement this directive immediately and start the linking process. IRDAI said, “These rules have statutory force and, as such, life and general insurers (including standalone health insurers) have to implement them without awaiting further instructions”.
Aadhaar Linking for Postal Accounts Deadline 31st December
06-Nov-2017 – In order to help postal account holders meet the 31st December 2017 deadline for linking of account with Aadhaar and mobile number, the Department of Posts (DoP) has unveiled 585 additional Aadhaar enrollment centres in Andhra Pradesh. These new centres are in addition to the 1595 post offices in the state that already provide similar services.
Aadhaar verified Passengers Can Book Upto 12 Railway Tickets Online in a Month
03-Nov-2017 – In their bid to encourage people for Aadhaar enrolment, Indian railways has announced the increase in monthly online railway ticket booking quota for Aadhaar verified passengers. Now, those who have verified Aadhaar can book up to 12 railway tickets online in a month, which was earlier restricted to 6. The move has came in effect from 26th October 2017 and is being hailed as an innovative way of encouraging people to link Aadhaar with their IRCTC accounts.
Now Link Aadhaar With Mobile Using OTP
02-Nov-2017 – A tweet posted by UIDAI on Nov 2 stated that from December 1, 2017, users will be able to link their mobile number with Aadhaar through OTP (one-time password) received on their registered mobile number. Users will no longer need to visit telecom service provider centres as from next month; they will be able to link their mobile number and Aadhaar on their own from the comfort of their home.
Telecom Operators to display the reverification process on their website by December
31st Oct 2017 – UIDAI and the Department of Telecom (DoT) are making a framework which will help in linking Aadhaar with mobile numbers and their reverification. Mobile operators will have to display this data on their website by December. DoT has proposed three new facilities for linking Aadhaar with mobile numbers – OTP-based method, IVRS and through the telecom operator’s app. Telecom secretary, Aruna Sundararanjan said, “Operators have to inform DoT by November 15 on the mechanism by which all options for linking Aadhaar with mobile number are made available on their portals. This will then be verified by DoT and UIDAI over another two weeks. So we hope that by December, citizens will know about the options that they can choose online.”
Bangalore International Airport to Become Aadhaar-enabled by March
12th Oct 2017 – Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has come up with a project to make passengers’ experience at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) smooth and quick. The authority has decided to implement Aadhaar-enabled access system at the airport. This will help in reducing the verification time and screening time would be reduced from 25 minutes to as less as 10 minutes. The first stage would be brought into effect by March 2018. Domestic airlines would be brought on-board by June 2018 whereas all international airlines would also be brought on-board by October 2018.
Government Allocates Rs 2,000 Crores for Setting up Aadhaar Centres in Post Offices
11th Oct 2017 – The Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved Rs 2,000 Crores for setting up Aadhaar Centres in 15,000 Post Offices across India. The deadline set to complete this project is March 31st, 2018. This step is aimed at minimising frauds and corruption committed at private Aadhaar Enrolment and Update centres. This will also help in mitigating the risk of Aadhaar data breach. The government has also asked banks to open more than 15,000 Aadhaar centres in their branches. This step would not only ensure improved access for Aadhaar enrolment and update but also extend the reach of UID in remote areas.