In today’s digital India, the Aadhaar card is no longer just an identity document—it has become the backbone of financial, social, and government-related services. From bank accounts and income tax filings to mobile connections and welfare schemes, Aadhaar is deeply linked to everyday life. Because of this, even a small change in Aadhaar details, especially a name update, has now become a legally sensitive process.
According to the latest UIDAI guidelines implemented in 2026, changing your name on the Aadhaar card is no longer a casual update. The new rules are designed to enhance security, prevent identity misuse, and ensure consistency across official records. Here’s everything you need to know before applying for a name change.
As per UIDAI regulations, an individual is allowed to change their Aadhaar name only twice in their lifetime. This includes both minor and major name modifications.
If you have already used both opportunities, a third name change will not be permitted through the standard process. In exceptional cases, approval may be sought from the UIDAI Regional Office, but this requires strong legal justification and verified supporting documents. Such cases are examined on an individual basis and approvals are rare.
One of the most important updates in 2026 is the mandatory requirement of a Gazette Notification for significant name changes.
Minor Corrections
If the change involves small spelling errors or typographical mistakes, the update can still be done using valid identity proof such as a PAN card or passport. In some cases, this may be initiated online.
Complete Name Change
If you are changing your full name or first name entirely—for reasons such as marriage, divorce, or personal choice—an affidavit alone is no longer sufficient. You must publish your name change in an official Government Gazette (State or Central) and submit a copy at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
This step ensures that name changes are legally recorded and publicly verifiable.
To promote digital services, UIDAI has upgraded the myAadhaar portal, but with certain limitations.
Address updates can still be completed online.
Full name changes must be done offline by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
During the visit, biometric verification—including fingerprints and iris scans—will be conducted again to authenticate the applicant. According to the revised fee structure for 2026:
Demographic updates (name, date of birth, gender): ₹75
Biometric updates: ₹125
Changing a surname after marriage is common, especially for women. A valid marriage certificate is accepted as proof for updating the surname on Aadhaar.
However, under the new rules, if the applicant wants to change the first name along with the surname, a Gazette Notification may still be required. It is also essential that the marriage certificate clearly displays the applicant’s photograph and previous name.
Document Consistency
Ensure that the supporting documents (PAN card, passport, voter ID) reflect the same name and date of birth you want on Aadhaar.
Language Accuracy
Aadhaar records store names in both English and the regional language. Carefully verify spellings in both formats before submission.
PAN-Aadhaar Linking
After updating your Aadhaar name, make sure the PAN card is updated as well. A mismatch may result in PAN deactivation under 2026 compliance rules.
Aadhaar name updates have now become a one-time, carefully regulated process. The 2026 UIDAI rules emphasize accuracy, legal proof, and consistency across records. Preparing all required documents in advance can save time and help ensure your application is approved on the first attempt.
