Why I wrote this
I've helped friends and family navigate Aadhaar address updates more times than I can count. The rules have changed over the years, but the core question remains the same: how do you change the address on your Aadhaar card with the least fuss and the greatest chance of success? This guide covers both online and offline routes, required documents, fees, timelines, troubleshooting tips and FAQs — in a simple, step-by-step way for an Indian audience.
Note: For the official service, document lists and the latest process, always check the UIDAI site (I refer to it below) before you start.Official UIDAI Update page
Quick summary (what you need to know up front)
- You can update your Aadhaar address online (myAadhaar portal) if your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar and you have a valid Proof of Address (PoA) document to upload.
- Offline update options: Aadhaar Seva Kendra / authorised Enrolment/Update Centres / some Post Offices. You can also submit requests by post in certain situations — check UIDAI for the current mailing instructions.
- Fee: nominal (typically ₹50) — non-refundable.
- Typical processing: often done in a few days; UIDAI maximum timeline is up to 30 days for verification and update.
Before you begin: checklist
- Aadhaar number (12 digits) or Enrolment ID (if you have it)
- Registered mobile number (for OTP) — mandatory for online updates
- Clear scanned copy / photo of a valid Proof of Address (PoA) showing your new address
- Scanned/A4 copies sized and formatted per UIDAI guidelines (PDF/JPG) for online uploads
- Some ID proof (POI) may be needed at centres — carry originals when visiting
Which documents are accepted as Proof of Address (PoA)?
UIDAI maintains an accepted documents list; commonly used PoAs include:
- Passport
- Bank/Post Office statement or passbook
- Voter ID (EPIC)
- Ration card
- Driving licence
- Utility bills (electricity / water / gas / telephone) — often recent (timelines vary)
- Registered sale deed / property tax receipt
- Other government-issued documents
Always check the exact list and any date requirements on the UIDAI site before you apply.UIDAI — Update Aadhaar (documents list)
Method 1 — Change address online (myAadhaar portal)
This is the fastest way if your mobile number is linked with Aadhaar and you have a valid PoA.
Step-by-step:
- Visit the myAadhaar portal: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
- Click Login with Aadhaar and OTP. Enter your Aadhaar number and request OTP to your registered mobile.
- After OTP verification, choose “Address Update” → “Update Aadhaar Online”.
- Select the field to update (Address) and enter the new address details carefully.
- Upload clear scanned copy of the Proof of Address (follow size/format limits shown on the portal).
- Preview the entered address exactly as it will appear on Aadhaar. Correct any mistakes now.
- Pay the nominal fee (usually ₹50) online (options include UPI, debit/credit, netbanking). This fee is typically non-refundable.
- Submit the request. You will get a Service Request Number (SRN) or Update Request Number (URN) — save it for tracking.
What happens next:
- UIDAI verifies the uploaded document and details. If everything is fine, your address is updated and you will get an SMS on the registered mobile.
- You can download updated e-Aadhaar from UIDAI once the update is approved.
Source and official flow: UIDAI myAadhaar portal and Update Aadhaar pages.UIDAI Update Aadhaar
Method 2 — Update via mAadhaar app
- mAadhaar is UIDAI’s mobile app for Aadhaar management. Functionality may vary between versions.
- Some app versions let you initiate address updates by uploading PoA; often it simply links you to the myAadhaar portal flow or instructs you to visit an enrolment centre when needed.
- If you prefer mobile, install mAadhaar from Google Play / Apple App Store, register using your Aadhaar and registered mobile, and check the "Update" options.
Note: the app experience can differ from the web portal; when in doubt, use the web portal or a centre.
Method 3 — Offline: Enrollment / Update Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra
If your mobile is not registered, or you prefer in-person help, use this route.
Steps:
- Find the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra / authorised Enrolment/Update Centre (many post offices also offer this service). You can book an appointment online on UIDAI site if available.
- Visit the centre with original PoA and any supporting ID (and photocopies as requested).
- Fill the Aadhaar Enrolment / Update Form at the centre.
- Provide the documents to the operator; biometric authentication or presence verification will be done.
- Pay the fee (typically ₹50) at the centre.
- The centre will issue an acknowledgement slip with an Update Request Number (URN) or SRN — keep it safe for tracking.
Advantages of offline route:
- Useful when your mobile number isn't linked.
- Centre staff can guide you with document choices and ensure scans are clear.
Method 4 — Update by post (where allowed)
UIDAI has previously allowed requests by post for some corrections/updates. The exact procedure, required forms, and postal address may change — so consult UIDAI before sending documents.
General approach:
- Download the Aadhaar Enrolment & Update form from UIDAI.
- Fill it carefully, attach self-attested copies of required documents, and follow the mailing instructions on UIDAI.
- Use a tracked courier or registered post and keep copies of what you sent.
Because mailing instructions and addresses can change, I recommend confirming the current postal procedure on UIDAI before sending anything.UIDAI Services — Apply online / by post
How to check status after you apply
- Go to UIDAI's “Check Aadhaar Update Status” page (or the myAadhaar portal).
- Enter the SRN/URN you received after submission and the captcha. Submit.
- The portal will show “Pending / Under Process / Approved / Rejected” and any messages.
- You will usually get an SMS when the update is approved. You can then download your updated e-Aadhaar.
Estimated timelines:
- Typical real-world timelines: often within 3–7 working days for many requests.
- UIDAI’s stated maximum timeline: up to 30 days for verification and update depending on document checks and workload.
References: UIDAI pages and practical reports from users and banks. Expect anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on verification needs.UIDAI Update info
Fees (what to expect)
- Online submission: nominal fee (commonly ₹50) — subject to change; payable online during submission.
- At centres: similar nominal fee (₹50) — payable at the centre.
- The fee is generally non-refundable even if your update is rejected; you’ll need to re-apply and pay again after fixing issues.
Common issues and how to correct them
- Rejection because document is unclear / not readable
- Fix: Re-scan or photograph the document carefully (colour, good lighting, readable text), ensure file size and format meet portal requirements, then reapply.
- Address on document doesn’t match what you entered
- Fix: Enter the address exactly as shown on the PoA document (or provide a PoA that matches the intended new address). Any mismatch may lead to rejection.
- Mobile number is not registered with Aadhaar (so OTP not available)
- Fix: Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra / Enrolment Centre with your original Aadhaar and provide proof to register the mobile; then use the online portal.
- Document accepted only in the head-of-household (family-based updates)
- Fix: UIDAI allows certain family-head-based updates; follow the portal’s “Head of Family (HoF) based update” option and upload PoR plus relationship proof as required.
- Incorrect pincode / postal locality issues
- Fix: Ensure you select the correct post office/locality during the address entry step; use full district/state names and correct pincode.
- Multiple-word formats, abbreviations or special characters cause verification errors
- Fix: Use full words rather than uncommon abbreviations; follow the portal’s preview and correct before submitting.
If your request is rejected, UIDAI usually indicates a reason. Address that reason and reapply or visit a centre for help.
Precautions and tips I always share
- Always keep a copy of the SRN/URN after submission — it’s your tracking ID.
- Use clear, recent, and official documents as PoA — older utility bills may not be accepted.
- Avoid abbreviations and punctuation that may confuse automated checks; preview what will be printed on Aadhaar.
- If you need the update quickly for KYC or government benefit timelines, consider visiting a centre for guided submission.
- Keep Aadhaar-linked mobile number active throughout the process (you’ll get OTPs and SMS notifications).
- Save PDF/JPEG copies of any acknowledgements and the updated e-Aadhaar once available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I change my Aadhaar address online without PoA?
A: No — UIDAI generally requires a valid Proof of Address for address changes. Earlier Address Validation Letter options have been phased out or limited; rely on valid PoA.UIDAI guidance
Q: How many times can I change the Aadhaar address?
A: There is no practical limit on the number of updates, but each update must be supported by valid documents and will be verified.
Q: Will I receive a new physical Aadhaar letter by post after update?
A: UIDAI allows you to download e-Aadhaar once updated. Physical reprints may not be automatic; you can request a reprint for a nominal fee if needed.
Q: How will I know if my address update was successful?
A: You will receive an SMS to your registered mobile and can download the updated e-Aadhaar from UIDAI using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
Q: What if my bank or other service needs address proof immediately?
A: Download your updated e-Aadhaar (PDF) and use it as proof. If update isn’t yet approved, provide other accepted proofs or explain the SRN is in process.
A note from my earlier thoughts on Aadhaar
I’ve written about Aadhaar’s growing role and the importance of keeping identity records accurate and private. For context on how Aadhaar fits into larger identity and governance debates, see one of my earlier posts where I discussed Aadhaar’s pervasiveness and implications.Aadhaar-the-Irreversible (my blog)
Short conclusion
Updating your Aadhaar address is straightforward if you prepare the required PoA, ensure your mobile is registered, and follow the portal or centre instructions carefully. Online is convenient and fast; offline centres are there when your mobile is not registered or when you prefer in-person help. Save the SRN/URN, track the request, and download your e-Aadhaar once approved.
Regards,
Hemen Parekh
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