UIDAI Revises Aadhaar Name Update Rules, Sets New Document Requirements

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced revised rules for updating names on Aadhaar cards. The new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), issued on September 18, 2026, replaces the previous process and categorizes name updates according to the type of correction requested.

The rules establish different documentation requirements for minor corrections, data entry errors, changes following marriage or divorce, and complete name changes. The UIDAI has also noted that documents, affidavits, and official notifications (published in the Gazette) submitted for name updates will be verified before the application is processed. Below are five details Aadhaar holders should know about the new rules.

1. Minor name corrections can be made using valid documents

Small changes where the individual's identity remains unchanged are classified as minor name changes. These include: expanding initials, adding or removing a middle name or surname, changing the order of names, and making minor spelling corrections provided the pronunciation remains similar.

For these requests, applicants must submit valid Proof of Identity (PoI). For individuals under 18, valid Proof of Relationship (PoR) may also be used when the name update is based on the Head of Family (HoF).

Examples cited by the UIDAI include changing "Ram" to "Rama" or "Somya" to "Saumya," or adding a middle name.

2. Data entry errors require a sworn affidavit

If a name was entered incorrectly in Aadhaar due to a data entry error, the process differs. For adults, the UIDAI requires a sworn affidavit (format "Annexure B") along with proof of identity (PoI) or proof of relationship (PoR).

For minors, a parent or legal guardian must submit a sworn affidavit (format "Annexure C") along with the corresponding proof of identity (PoI) or proof of relationship (PoR).

However, the requested name must match the correct name appearing on a document previously submitted to the UIDAI. If they do not match, the application may be rejected.

3. Surname changes related to marriage and divorce are governed by specific rules

Women wishing to change their surname in Aadhaar following marriage or divorce may submit a sworn affidavit (Annexure D) along with proof of identity (PoI). This affidavit confirms that the surname change is due to marriage or divorce and does not involve a change of identity.

The UIDAI also accepts a registered marriage certificate as supporting documentation in these cases.

The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) separately addresses name changes resulting from a change of gender, for which the corresponding proof of identity (PoI) is required.

4. Some corrections do not require documentation

The UIDAI has also specified certain cases where documentation is not required. These include correcting arbitrary capitalisation-such as changing "RaMesh" to "Ramesh"-and removing periods from names.

Additionally, there are specific rules for names that include "urf" (also known as) or "alias." Adults wishing to retain one of the names must submit a self-declaration (Annexure E) and proof of identity (PoI), while minors require a self-declaration (Annexure F) along with proof of identity (PoI) or proof of residence (PoR).

Otherwise, names must be recorded without aliases, prefixes, military ranks, job titles, periods, or other special characters.

5. Full name changes require publication in the Official Gazette

A full name change, or one that implies a change of identity, is classified as a major name change. In such cases, it is mandatory to publish the name change in the Official Gazette (Gazette Notification) and submit the corresponding proof of identity (PoI), as reported by a famous publication.

The UIDAI indicates that the requested new name will be compared against previously recorded or updated names. It will also verify the authenticity of the submitted identity and relationship documents, self-declarations, and Official Gazette notifications before processing the application. The revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) came into effect on the date the circular was signed: September 18, 2026.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kahekashan

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Kahekashan is a passionate technophile with a keen eye for cutting-edge gadgets, emerging technologies, and everything in the digital realm. Raised in a Defence family with strong values and a background in literature, she has consistently pursued excellence in every endeavour. Her last full-time assignment involved content writing with the Indian School of Business.

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