The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), which oversees the Aadhaar system, has extended the deadline for free Aadhaar updates until December 14, 2024. This marks the second extension, following a previous deadline of June 2024.
Free Update Process:
You can update your Aadhaar details for free exclusively through UIDAI’s online portal. However, please note that the free update option does not apply to biometric details. To update biometrics, you must visit an Aadhaar center and pay a fee.
Why Updating Aadhaar Details is Important
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Government of India, enabling citizens to access various services, including government schemes, tax filing, travel bookings, and bank account openings.
If your Aadhaar details are outdated or incorrect, you may encounter issues when trying to avail services that require Aadhaar authentication. This includes problems like mismatched addresses affecting financial transactions or outdated biometric data leading to authentication failures, particularly at airports.
The government has also raised concerns about the increasing risk of Aadhaar-related fraud. Regular updates help maintain an accurate and secure database, thereby reducing the chances of Aadhaar misuse.
Also Read- e-PAN Cards to be Issued in Under 10 Minutes: 5 Key Things You Should Know
Who Should Update Their Aadhaar?
While all Aadhaar holders can benefit from regular updates, certain individuals should prioritize the update:
- Aadhaar issued over 10 years ago: If your Aadhaar was created more than a decade ago, it’s advisable to update your details.
- Children turning 15: Children who received their Aadhaar when they were younger need to update their biometric details upon turning 15 to ensure valid identification.
- Biometric changes: If accidents, surgeries, or medical conditions have altered your biometric data (like fingerprints or iris scans), it’s essential to update your Aadhaar.
- Authentication failures: If you’ve experienced repeated authentication failures during financial transactions or while accessing government schemes, review and update your details to prevent ongoing issues.
How to Update Aadhaar Details Online for Free
Updating your Aadhaar information online is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the UIDAI Portal: Go to the Aadhaar Self-Service Update Portal at myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.
- Login with Aadhaar and OTP: Enter your Aadhaar number and authenticate using the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number.
- Review Your Details: Check the demographic information (such as name, address, etc.) displayed on your Aadhaar profile. If any information is outdated or incorrect, proceed to update it.
- Update Your Details: Select the relevant document type (Proof of Identity or Proof of Address) and upload a scanned copy of the original document in JPEG, PNG, or PDF format (maximum size: 2 MB).
- Submit the Request: After submitting your request, you’ll receive a Service Request Number (SRN) to track the status of your update.
Note on Biometric Updates: While demographic updates can be performed online, changes to biometric information (such as fingerprints, iris scans, or photos) must be made at an authorized Aadhaar center and require a fee. This is particularly important for children who need to update their biometric details as they grow.