The beginning of 2026 has brought an important update for Aadhaar card holders. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has revised the fee for ordering a PVC Aadhaar Card. From now on, applicants will have to pay ₹75 instead of ₹50 to get the PVC version of their Aadhaar card.
This change has raised several questions among citizens—why the fee was increased, how to apply for the PVC Aadhaar card online, how to check its status, and whether the card can be downloaded. Here is a detailed and easy-to-understand explanation of everything you need to know.
Why Has UIDAI Increased the Aadhaar PVC Card Fee?According to UIDAI, the decision to increase the fee has been taken after considering multiple operational factors. The authority stated that the revised fee reflects the rising cost of:
High-quality printing
Secure and durable material
Advanced security features
Packaging and doorstep delivery
The PVC Aadhaar card is not just a plastic copy of the regular Aadhaar. It is designed to be more durable, waterproof, and long-lasting, making it suitable for daily use. The enhanced quality and security standards have led to an increase in production and delivery expenses, which is why the fee has been revised to ₹75.
What Is a PVC Aadhaar Card and Why Is It Useful?A PVC Aadhaar card is a credit-card-sized plastic Aadhaar, similar in look and feel to a debit or ATM card. Compared to the paper or laminated Aadhaar, the PVC version offers several advantages:
Strong and flexible plastic material
Water-resistant and tear-proof
Easy to carry in wallets
Longer lifespan
It also comes with multiple advanced security features, including a hologram, micro-text, ghost image, guilloche pattern, QR code, and issue date. These features make the PVC Aadhaar card more secure and reduce the risk of tampering or duplication.
How to Apply for PVC Aadhaar Card OnlineUIDAI has made the application process completely online and user-friendly. Citizens can apply through the MyAadhaar portal without visiting any Aadhaar center.
Here is the step-by-step process:
Visit the official MyAadhaar portal
Click on the option “Order Aadhaar PVC Card”
Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or Virtual ID
Verify your identity using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number
Preview your Aadhaar details
Make the payment of ₹75 using UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking
Submit the request and note down the Service Request Number (SRN)
Once the request is successfully placed, UIDAI processes the order for printing and dispatch.
How to Check PVC Aadhaar Card StatusAfter applying, applicants can easily track the status of their PVC Aadhaar card online.
Steps to check status:
Go to the MyAadhaar portal
Click on “Check Aadhaar PVC Card Status”
Enter your SRN number
View the current status of printing or delivery
This facility allows applicants to stay updated without visiting any office or calling customer support.
Delivery Timeline and Important PointsUIDAI generally delivers the PVC Aadhaar card within 10 to 15 days from the date of application. The card is sent directly to the address mentioned in Aadhaar records through secure postal services.
It is important to note that:
PVC Aadhaar card cannot be downloaded
It is physically printed and delivered
Address accuracy in Aadhaar records is crucial for timely delivery
The PVC Aadhaar card is especially useful for individuals who:
Carry Aadhaar daily for identification
Want a long-lasting and wallet-friendly option
Prefer a more secure and professional-looking ID
Despite the fee increase, many users find the PVC Aadhaar card worth the cost due to its durability and security.
