Introduction

The Aadhaar card is one of the most important identity documents issued by the Government of India. It serves as proof of identity and address across various government and private services. However, over time, individuals may need to update their Aadhaar details to keep the information current. One of the common updates required is changing or updating the photo in the Aadhaar card.

Updating your photo in Aadhaar is crucial as it ensures your identity is accurately represented in your official documents. A recent and clear photograph helps avoid identity verification issues during transactions or services that require Aadhaar authentication. This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to update your photo in Aadhaar, covering the necessary steps, best practices, tools, real examples, and frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Eligibility for Photo Update

Before initiating the update process, it is important to know that Aadhaar photo updates are typically allowed under specific circumstances such as:

• Change in appearance due to aging or other reasons
• Blurry or unclear existing photograph
• Incorrect or outdated photograph

Photo updates cannot be performed online and require a visit to an authorized Aadhaar Enrolment Center.

Step 2: Locate the Nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Center

Visit the official UIDAI website and use the Locate Enrolment Center feature by entering your state, district, or pin code. This will provide a list of authorized centers where you can request your photo update.

Step 3: Book an Appointment (Optional)

Some Aadhaar Enrolment Centers offer appointment booking to reduce waiting times. Check if this service is available and book a convenient time slot.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents

While updating your photo, you must carry the original Aadhaar card and a valid government-issued photo ID to verify your identity. Commonly accepted documents include:

• Passport
• Voter ID
• Driving License
• PAN Card

Step 5: Visit the Enrolment Center

At the center, inform the executive that you want to update your Aadhaar photo. You will be required to fill out an Aadhaar Update/Correction Form and submit your documents.

Step 6: Biometric Authentication

The center executive will verify your identity using biometric authentication which may include fingerprint scan or iris scan to ensure the request is legitimate.

Step 7: Capture New Photograph

The official will take a fresh photograph of you. Make sure to maintain a neutral expression and follow any instructions provided to ensure a clear and quality photo.

Step 8: Pay the Update Fee

A nominal fee is charged for the update process. This fee can vary but is generally around ₹50. Make sure to get a receipt for your payment and update request.

Step 9: Acknowledgment Slip

After submitting your request, you will receive an acknowledgment slip containing the Update Request Number (URN). This number is important to track the status of your update request.

Step 10: Track Update Status

You can track the status of your photo update on the UIDAI website by entering your URN. The update process usually takes 7 to 10 working days.

Step 11: Download Updated Aadhaar

Once the update is processed, you can download your updated Aadhaar card from the UIDAI portal. You can also request a physical copy if needed.

Best Practices

Ensure Clear and Recent Photograph

When updating your photo, ensure that the photograph taken is clear, recent, and conforms to biometric standards. Avoid hats, glasses, or any accessories that obstruct the face.

Verify Information Before Submission

Double-check all details on the update form before submitting to avoid any errors or discrepancies.

Keep Acknowledgment Slip Safe

Your acknowledgment slip contains your URN which is essential for tracking your update status. Keep it safe until the update is confirmed.

Update Only When Necessary

Frequent updates may not be allowed. Update your photo only when there is a significant change in appearance or if the existing photo is unclear.

Use Authorized Centers Only

Always use government-recognized Aadhaar Enrolment Centers to avoid fraud or misuse of your personal information.

Tools and Resources

UIDAI Official Website

The official UIDAI website (https://uidai.gov.in) is the primary resource for locating enrollment centers, downloading forms, tracking update status, and downloading updated Aadhaar cards.

Aadhaar Update/Correction Form

This form is available at enrollment centers and online for download. It is used to request photo updates and other corrections.

Enrollment Center Locator

Use the enrollment center locator tool on the UIDAI website to find the nearest authorized center.

URN Tracking Tool

After submitting your update request, use the Update Request Number (URN) tracking tool on the UIDAI portal to monitor the status of your photo update.

Real Examples

Example 1: Updating Photo Due to Aging

Mr. Sharma noticed that his Aadhaar photo taken 10 years ago no longer resembled his current appearance. He visited the nearest enrollment center, submitted his documents, and had his photo updated. Within 10 days, he downloaded the updated Aadhaar from the UIDAI website and used it for his bank KYC without any issues.

Example 2: Blurry Original Aadhaar Photo

Ms. Gupta received her Aadhaar card but found the photo was unclear and blurred. She went to the enrollment center, requested a photo update, and provided valid ID proof. The updated Aadhaar with a clear photo was delivered in two weeks, helping her in identity verification for a government scholarship.

Example 3: Change in Appearance Due to Medical Reasons

Mr. Khan underwent a medical procedure that changed his facial features. To avoid complications in identity verification, he updated his Aadhaar photo by following the standard procedure at the enrollment center. This ensured smooth access to healthcare and other services linked with Aadhaar.

FAQs

Can I update my Aadhaar photo online?

No, photo updates cannot be done online. You must visit an authorized Aadhaar Enrolment Center to update your photograph.

Is there any fee for updating the Aadhaar photo?

Yes, a nominal fee is charged for updating the photo, usually around ₹50. This fee is payable at the enrollment center.

How long does it take to update the photo in Aadhaar?

The update process typically takes 7 to 10 working days from the date of submission at the enrollment center.

Do I need to carry original documents for photo update?

Yes, you need to carry your original Aadhaar card and a valid government-issued photo ID as proof of identity.

Can I update my photo if my Aadhaar is locked or blocked?

Photo updates require biometric authentication, so you need to ensure your Aadhaar is active and accessible for verification purposes.

Will my Aadhaar number change after updating the photo?

No, your Aadhaar number remains the same after any update, including photo changes.

Conclusion

Keeping your Aadhaar photo updated is essential to maintain accurate identity verification across various services. Although the process requires a physical visit to an authorized enrollment center, it is straightforward and affordable. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can update your Aadhaar photo smoothly and ensure your personal identity records are always current and reliable. Always use authorized channels and keep your acknowledgment slip safe to track your update status effectively.