The Aadhaar card, a pillar of India’s digital identity framework, needs to stay updated with your latest information. But wait, does updating your Aadhaar cost anything? Don’t worry, it’s not a bottomless pit! This guide will explain the charges associated with different Aadhaar update scenarios, so you can approach the process with complete clarity.
Understanding the Update Types and Fees
There are two main categories of Aadhaar updates, and the charges differ slightly for each:
- Demographic Updates: These involve modifying personal details like address, phone number, or email address linked to your Aadhaar.
- Biometric Updates: This category focuses on updating your fingerprints, iris scans, or photograph captured during Aadhaar enrolment.
Here’s a breakdown of the charges for each type:
- Free Updates: Thankfully, some Aadhaar updates are completely free! These include:
- Mandatory Biometric Update: Every ten years, Aadhaar mandates a biometric update to ensure the accuracy of fingerprints and iris scans. This update is free of charge.
- Paid Updates: There are nominal fees associated with certain Aadhaar updates:
- Demographic Update (Any Type): Updating any demographic information like address, phone number, or email ID comes with a fee of Rs. 50 (inclusive of GST).
- Biometric Update (Optional): If you wish to update your fingerprints, iris scans, or photograph (other than the mandatory update), you’ll need to pay Rs. 100 (inclusive of GST).
- Combined Demographic and Biometric Update: This option lets you update both your demographic details and biometrics in one go. The fee for this combined update is also Rs. 100 (inclusive of GST).
- Downloading and Printing Aadhaar: If you simply need a copy of your updated Aadhaar card, you can download it from the UIDAI website for Rs. 30 (inclusive of GST) per download.
Important Note: These charges are subject to change by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It’s always a good idea to double-check the latest fees on the UIDAI website (https://uidai.gov.in/en/) before initiating an update.
Paying the Update Fees: A Quick Guide
The update fees can be paid conveniently through various online payment methods like debit cards, credit cards, net banking, or UPI (Unified Payments Interface). Once you submit the update request on the UIDAI’s Self Service Update Portal (SSUP), you’ll be directed to a secure payment gateway to complete the transaction.
Avoiding Unnecessary Charges: A Few Pointers
Here are some tips to steer clear of unnecessary charges:
- Plan Your Updates: If you need to update both your address and biometrics, consider opting for the combined update (Rs. 100) instead of doing them separately (Rs. 150).
- Double-check Information: Ensure all the details you enter during the update process are accurate. Any errors might lead to rejection and the need to resubmit the request, incurring additional fees.
By understanding the update charges and following these tips, you can ensure a cost-effective and smooth Aadhaar update experience. Remember, keeping your Aadhaar information up-to-date is crucial for seamless access to various government and financial services in India.
