Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is a vital document that serves as proof of identity and address. If you need to change your surname on your Aadhaar card, such as after marriage, the process is straightforward and can be completed both online and offline. This article will guide you step-by-step through the process, ensuring that your Aadhaar card reflects your correct name and other details.
Why You Might Need to Change Your Surname
There are several reasons why someone might need to change their surname on their Aadhaar card, including:
Marriage: Many women opt to adopt their spouse’s surname after marriage.
Divorce: Individuals may revert to their maiden name or change their surname following a divorce.
Name correction: In case of a spelling mistake or typo in the surname.
Now, let’s explore how you can update your Aadhaar card with the new surname.
Online Aadhaar Name Update
Although you cannot change your name entirely online, you can update your surname after marriage or make minor changes to your name online through the UIDAI website. Here’s how to do it:
Steps to Update Your Name Online:
Visit the UIDAI Website: Go to the official UIDAI website (www.uidai.gov.in) and click on the 'My Aadhaar' section.
Select ‘Update Your Aadhaar’: Choose the option to update your Aadhaar details online.
Login Using OTP: Enter your Aadhaar number and request an OTP on your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP for authentication.
Select the Field to Update: Choose ‘Name’ or ‘Surname’ from the list of details you wish to update.
Upload Documents: You will need to upload a scanned copy of a valid document that supports your name change. If your surname change is due to marriage, a marriage certificate will be required.
Pay the Fee: There is a fee of Rs. 50 for updating your name on Aadhaar. You can pay this fee online via net banking, credit card, or debit card.
Submit the Application: After completing the form and submitting the documents, review the details and confirm your submission.
Receive an Acknowledgment: You will receive a reference number that allows you to track the status of your application.
The online process is convenient, but keep in mind that not all name changes are allowed online. Significant changes, such as adding or removing a surname, will require an Aadhaar enrollment center visit for verification.
Important Notes:
It may take up to 90 days for the name change request to be processed.
Once your request is approved, you will receive an SMS confirmation on your registered mobile number.
Offline Aadhaar Name Update at Enrollment Centers
For those who prefer the traditional method, or if you are making a major change (such as adding or changing a surname), you will need to visit an Aadhaar enrollment center to update your Aadhaar details offline.
Steps to Update Your Name Offline:
Locate an Aadhaar Enrollment Center: Visit the official UIDAI website to find an Aadhaar enrollment center near you.
Carry the Required Documents: You will need to bring original documents that support your name change. For a surname change after marriage, carry your marriage certificate, which will serve as the proof of name change.
Fill Out the Aadhaar Update Form: Once you reach the center, fill out the Aadhaar Update/Correction Form. Make sure to double-check all the details.
Submit the Documents: Submit the form along with the required documents. The staff will verify your documents.
Biometric Authentication: You may be asked to provide biometric authentication (fingerprints and iris scan) to validate your identity.
Pay the Fee: Just like the online process, there is a fee of Rs. 50 for updating your name in Aadhaar.
Receive an Acknowledgment: After submitting your form and documents, you will be given an acknowledgment slip with an Update Request Number (URN). This URN can be used to track your application.
Processing Time:
The name change request may take up to 90 days to be processed. You will receive an SMS confirmation on your registered mobile number once the process is completed.
Downloading Your Updated e-Aadhaar:
Once your name change is approved, you can download the updated Aadhaar card from the UIDAI website:
Visit the UIDAI website and select 'Download Aadhaar.'
Enter your Aadhaar number and authenticate using OTP.
Download your updated e-Aadhaar in PDF format.
Important Documents for Aadhaar Name Change
To change your surname after marriage or for other reasons, you must submit the appropriate documents. Here are some commonly accepted documents:
Marriage certificate (for surname change after marriage)
Divorce decree (if applicable)
Passport
Voter ID
PAN card
Ensure that the documents you provide are accurate and verifiable, as submission of incorrect documents can lead to rejection of your application.
Common Reasons for Rejection of Name Change Requests
While the process is relatively straightforward, there are some common mistakes that can lead to the rejection of your name change request:
Inaccurate Documents: If the documents submitted do not match the requested name change, your application will be rejected.
Unverifiable Documents: UIDAI may reject your application if it cannot verify the authenticity of the documents.
Incorrect Information: Ensure that all details on the form, such as Aadhaar number, name, and supporting documents, are correct.
If your application is rejected, you will receive an SMS notification with the reason for rejection. You can then correct the issue and submit a fresh request.
How to Update Other Details on Aadhaar
In addition to changing your surname, you can also update other information on your Aadhaar card, such as your address and date of birth.
Address Update: As of now, you can update your address online for free until December 14th, 2024. This process is simple and can be done on the UIDAI website using an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
Date of Birth Update: If you need to correct or update your date of birth, this can be done both online and offline. You will need to submit a valid proof of date of birth such as a birth certificate or 10th-grade mark sheet.
Conclusion
Changing your surname on your Aadhaar card is a critical task, especially after life events such as marriage or divorce. Whether you choose to update your name online or offline, the process is relatively easy and can be completed with the correct documentation. Always ensure that you provide accurate and verifiable documents to avoid delays or rejections. After the process is complete, you can download your updated Aadhaar card online and continue using it as an essential identity document.
If you have any queries, you can visit the UIDAI website or contact their helpline for assistance.
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