Update your Aadhaar photo: Simple steps for a hassle-free process

In India, the Aadhaar card is a vital identification document linking every resident to their biometric and demographic data. However, as we age or our appearance changes, the photograph on our Aadhaar card may no longer be accurate. Fortunately, the process to change or update your Aadhaar photo is relatively simple. This article will guide you on how to change photo in Aadhaar card , ensuring that your identification remains up-to-date and accurate.

• Book an appointment, visit the nearest enrolment centre, submit your request, and get a new photo captured.
• Updating your Aadhaar photo involves a fee of ₹100.
• Use the Update Request Number (URN) to track your update request online.
• After the update, download the updated Aadhaar card from the UIDAI website.
• The Aadhaar photo update must be done in person at an enrolment centre.

There are various reasons why you might want to update your Aadhaar photo:

• Change in Appearance : Significant changes in your appearance over time, such as ageing, surgery, or other alterations, might necessitate a new photo.
• Incorrect Photo : If the initial photo on your Aadhaar card is unclear or incorrect, updating it can help ensure proper identification.
• Professional Needs : Certain professional requirements might call for an updated and more formal photo.

Regardless of the reason, knowing how to update photo in Aadhaar card will save you time and ensure that your identity verification remains smooth.

1. Book an Appointment at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre

The first step for Aadhaar photo update is to book an appointment at your nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra. You can do this online through the UIDAI website or by visiting the centre directly. Steps to Book an Appointment:

• Visit the UIDAI portal .
• Select "Book Appointment."
• Choose your location and enter your details.
• Schedule your appointment at a convenient time.

2. Visit the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre

On the day of your appointment, visit the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre with the necessary documents. Make sure to carry your current Aadhaar card and a valid photo ID. Documents Required:

• Current Aadhaar Card : This is necessary for reference and verification.
• Photo ID Proof : Carry a government-issued ID with a photo, such as a passport, driving licence, or voter ID card.

3. Submit the Photo Update Request

Once at the centre, fill out the Aadhaar correction form. Specify that you want an Aadhaar card photo update. Steps at the Centre:

• Fill out the Aadhaar correction form with your current details. You can download the Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Form from the official website of UIDAI.
• Indicate that you are requesting a photo change.
• Submit the form along with the required documents.

4. Get Your New Photo Captured

The centre will capture your new photo. This will replace the old photo on your Aadhaar card. Tips for the Photo:

• Ensure you are well-groomed and presentable.
• Avoid wearing hats or glasses (unless for medical reasons).
• Make sure your face is clearly visible.

5. Pay the Fee

There is a nominal fee of ₹100 for updating your Aadhaar details, including Aadhaar photo update. Make sure to pay this fee at the centre.

6. Receive an Acknowledgement Slip

After submitting your form and getting your photo captured, you will receive an acknowledgement slip with an Update Request Number (URN). Keep this slip safe as it allows you to track the status of your request.

You can track the status of your Aadhaar photo update using the URN provided on the acknowledgement slip.

Steps to Track Status:

• Visit the UIDAI website .
• Go to the "Check Aadhaar Update Status" section.
• Enter your URN and Aadhaar number.
• View the status of your Aadhaar photo update request.

The new Aadhaar card with the updated photo will be mailed to your registered address within 90 days.

Once your Aadhaar photo is updated , you can download the updated version of your card from the UIDAI website. Note that you need your mobile number registered with Aadhaar to access it online.

Steps to Download Aadhaar:

• Visit the UIDAI Website : Go to the UIDAI website and navigate to ‘My Aadhaar.’
• Click on ‘Download Aadhaar’ : Find this option under the ‘Get Aadhaar’ tab.
• Enter Aadhaar Number : Select the Aadhaar Number option, enter your Aadhaar number, captcha code, and click on ‘Send OTP.’
• Verify OTP : Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
• Download e-Aadhaar : Choose if you want a masked Aadhaar , and click ‘Verify & Download’ to get a PDF of your e-Aadhaar card.

Also Read : E-Aadhaar made easy: 5 steps to your digital identity

Before proceeding with the photo change in Aadhaar card , keep these important points in mind:

• Live Photograph : There is no need to bring a photograph. The enrolment centre will capture a live photograph.
• Physical Visit Required : You cannot change your Aadhaar photo online; you must visit the enrolment centre in person.
• Processing Time : It usually takes up to 30 days for the information to be updated in Aadhaar, but it can sometimes take up to 90 days.
• Aadhaar Uniqueness : Your Aadhaar number remains the same even after an Aadhaar photo update. The update is purely for photo accuracy and identification.

Knowing how to update Aadhaar card photo is essential for maintaining accurate identification. Whether your appearance has changed significantly, the initial photo is unclear, or professional needs require it, keeping your Aadhaar details current is crucial for seamless identity verification across various services.The process is straightforward: book an appointment, visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre, submit the necessary documents, have your new photo taken, and pay a nominal fee. Following this, you can track the status of your update and download the updated Aadhaar card online. Keeping these steps and considerations in mind will ensure that the Aadhaar photo update is hassle-free and effective.