Aadhaar Update Fees Hiked: What It Means for Indian Residents

The New Landscape of Aadhaar Update Fees

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced a significant hike in fees for updating Aadhaar card details, effective from October 1, 2025. This change will impact millions of Indian residents who rely on Aadhaar for various government and private services. Understanding the new fee structure is crucial for maintaining accurate and up-to-date identity information.

Understanding the Fee Hike

With the introduction of new fees, services that once had minimal costs are now more expensive. For instance, updating name, address, or date of birth, which previously cost Rs 50, will now cost Rs 75. Services that were charged at Rs 100 will now be Rs 125, and those priced at Rs 75 will increase to Rs 90. In the next phase, starting from October 1, 2028, these fees will further increase to Rs 150.

Biometric Update Fees

Biometric changes, such as updating fingerprints, iris scans, and photos, will now include additional in-person appointment fees. The cost for these updates is set at Rs 125. However, there are some exceptions:

• Children aged 5 to 7 years old**: One free biometric update is allowed.
• Children aged 15 to 17 years old**: One free biometric update is also provided.
• Children aged 7 to 15 years old**: Biometric updates will be free until September 30, 2026, to encourage timely updates.

Demographic Update Fees

For demographic updates, such as changing name, address, or date of birth, the new fee is Rs 75. This applies whether the update is done online or at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. The same fee is applicable for updating Proof of Address (PoA) or Proof of Identity (PoI) documents, whether through the SSUP (myAadhaar) portal or at an enrolment center.

The Impact on Residents

The fee hike is likely to affect a wide range of residents, particularly those who frequently need to update their information. For instance, individuals who move frequently or have changes in their personal details will face higher costs. However, the UIDAI has taken steps to mitigate the financial burden on certain groups, such as children and low-income families.

Planning for Updates

To manage the new fees effectively, residents should plan their updates in advance and use online portals whenever possible. Here are some tips:

1. Check for Free Updates: Ensure you take advantage of the free biometric updates for children and other eligible groups.
2. Batch Updates: If you have multiple changes to make, consider doing them all at once to save on fees.
3. Use Online Services: Online updates are generally cheaper and more convenient than in-person visits.

The Broader Implications

The fee hike reflects the UIDAI's efforts to maintain the accuracy and integrity of the Aadhaar database. By charging for updates, the authority aims to discourage unnecessary changes and ensure that the system remains robust and reliable. However, it is crucial that the fees do not become a barrier to essential services for vulnerable populations.

The Bottom Line

While the new fees for updating Aadhaar details may be a concern for some residents, careful planning and use of available resources can help manage these costs. The UIDAI's measures are aimed at maintaining the integrity of the Aadhaar system, ensuring that it remains a reliable tool for identity verification and access to essential services.