From tax returns to SIM authentication and subsidies, your Aadhaar is a vital component of how you access services in India. The 12-digit Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) released Aadhaar number is one of the most vital identification documents today. See below 20 FAQs for 2025.
Q. What is Aadhaar?
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number issued by UIDAI to Indian citizens after demographic and biometric verification. Aadhaar is an e-ID linked with your fingerprint, iris scan, and photograph.
Q. Does Aadhaar apply to Indians?
Aadhaar is not mandatory but is a must for most services like linking PAN, subsidies, bank accounts, and SIM cards. Without Aadhaar, you can miss out on welfare and digital benefits.
Q. How can I get Aadhaar?
You will need to visit an Aadhaar registration centre along with genuine identity and address documents. Your iris scan, photo, and fingerprint will be scanned. The Aadhaar card is sent by post after verification and it can also be verified online.
Q. What documents are required for Aadhaar enrolment?
These accepted standard documents are voter ID, passport, PAN card, ration card, utility bills, and bank statement. You will be required to produce a proof of address as well as a proof of identity.
Q. Can NRIs apply?
Yes, NRIs holding a valid Indian passport are permitted to apply for Aadhaar. The rule allows for NRIs to hold Aadhaar on their arrival in India without the earlier requirement of 182-day stay.
Q. Is Aadhaar card proof of citizenship?
No. Aadhaar is not proof of Indian citizenship, and the same has also been elucidated by UIDAI in court proceedings.
Q. How quickly will I receive my Aadhaar?
On successful registration, you would be issued the physical card within 15-20 days. Your Aadhaar number, however, would be generated usually within a week and can be downloaded as an e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI website.
Q. What is e-Aadhaar?
e-Aadhaar is an electronically signed PDF version of your Aadhaar card. It is equivalent to the physical card and can be downloaded according to your Aadhaar number or enrolment ID from the UIDAI website.
Q. How can I update my Aadhaar details?
You can update certain fields like address online. For updating biometrics or name change, date of birth, and gender, you need to visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra. Supporting documents are required.
Q. Is Aadhaar linking still mandatory with PAN?
Yes. PAN linking with Aadhaar is mandatory up to 2025 for filing income tax returns. Non-compliance may render your PAN inoperative.
Q. Can Aadhaar be accepted as address proof?
Yes, Aadhaar is utilized as address proof for a bank account opening, passport issuance, and other services/products. It is among the more accepted KYC documents in India.
Q. What happens if my Aadhaar card is lost?
You can download the e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI website through OTP authentication. You can also obtain an online reprint, which will be delivered to your registered address.
Q. How do I lock/unlock my Aadhaar biometrics?
UIDAI has made locking/unlocking biometrics available on its website or the mAadhaar mobile app. Locking biometrics avoids abuse, especially in case of fraud or identity theft concerns.
Q. Is it secure to share Aadhaar details?
Aadhaar is secure, but do not print the complete number. Use a masked Aadhaar (showing last 4 digits) if possible. UIDAI advises against keeping copies of Aadhaar, if possible.
Q. What is VID in Aadhaar?
VID is a 16-digit Virtual ID that can be used in place of Aadhaar for verification. It is privacy-assured and can be re-generated at any time.
Q. Can children receive Aadhaar?
Yes. Aadhaar is also provided to children, including infants, on the basis of their birth certificate and parent's Aadhaar. Biometrics are updated at age five and then at fifteen years.
Q. How do I know if my Aadhaar is linked to my bank or mobile number?
You can check the linking status on the UIDAI website, as well as through the mAadhaar app. Most banks allow you to confirm Aadhaar linkage through SMS or mobile banking.
Q. Is it mandatory to have an Aadhaar to open a demat or trading account?
Yes, Aadhaar-based e-KYC is mandated by SEBI rules for opening a demat and trading account. It is a primary identity and compliance document.
Q. What if my Aadhaar authentication fails?
It may fail due to outdated biometrics or wrong data. You can approach the centre for correcting information and try re-authentication with correct data.
Q. Can de-activate or cancel my Aadhaar?
UIDAI currently does not allow for Aadhaar deactivation once it is issued. Aadhar cards for children, however, can be deactivated, or you may be deactivate your card by visiting a centre with supporting evidence under special circumstances.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
