Aadhaar is India’s unique identification system, linking personal information like biometric data and photographs to a 12-digit number. Over time, your appearance may change, which is why the photo on your Aadhaar card needs to be updated every 10 years. Updating your photo ensures that your Aadhaar remains valid for verification purposes in banking, mobile connections, and government services. Here’s a complete guide to updating your Aadhaar photo.

1. When Do You Need to Update Your Aadhaar Photo?

  • Every 10 years, Aadhaar holders are advised to update their photograph
  • If there is a significant change in appearance due to age, accident, or medical condition
  • Updating is optional before 10 years unless there’s a major change, but recommended for smooth KYC processes

2. How to Update Aadhaar Photo Online

Currently, photo update is not fully supported online; however, you can initiate the process online and complete it at an Aadhaar center.

Visit the UIDAI official website: https://uidai.gov.in

Log in with your Aadhaar number

Check if Photo Update option is available for your Aadhaar

If available, book an appointment at the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra

Note: Many Aadhaar services online are limited to demographic updates (name, address, date of birth). Photo update generally requires biometric verification at a physical center.

3. How to Update Aadhaar Photo Offline

Locate the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra:

Visit uidai website → Find an Aadhaar center near you

Book an appointment to avoid long queues

Carry original Aadhaar card and a valid ID proof

At the center:

Submit your Aadhaar for photo update

Biometric verification (fingerprint/iris) will be done

Your new photo will be captured by the official device

You will receive an acknowledgment slip with Update Request Number (URN)

The updated Aadhaar will be processed and linked to your profile.

4. Additional Tips

  • Ensure your face is clearly visible in the photograph
  • Avoid caps, sunglasses, or masks while updating the photo
  • Check your updated Aadhaar online after a few weeks using the URN

 Quick Summary

Step

Action

Online Check

Log in at uidai website → See if photo update is available

Visit Aadhaar Center

Book appointment → Carry Aadhaar & valid ID

Biometric & Photo Update

New photo captured → Fingerprint/Iris verified

Track Status

Use Update Request Number (URN) to track online

Conclusion

Updating your Aadhaar photo every 10 years is essential for accurate identification and smooth KYC verification. While the process requires a visit to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra, following the steps carefully ensures your Aadhaar is up-to-date and fully valid for all services.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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