How to Apply for Correction or Change of Name in Aadhaar Card Through Legal Procedure in India

The Aadhaar card, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is one of the most widely used identity documents in the country. Situations arise where individuals need to correct or change their name on the Aadhaar card, whether due to a spelling error, a change of name after marriage, divorce, adoption, or a voluntary name change. While minor corrections can be handled through a straightforward update process, major name changes require a legal procedure involving affidavits, gazette notifications, and newspaper publications. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process for correcting or changing one's name on the Aadhaar card through legal channels.

Types of Name Changes on Aadhaar

UIDAI distinguishes between two broad types of name changes. Minor corrections include fixing spelling errors, expanding abbreviated names, or adding initials. Major changes include a complete change of first name, surname, or full name, such as after marriage, divorce, or adoption. UIDAI permits a maximum of two name updates on the Aadhaar card. After both updates have been exhausted, further changes require a Gazette Notification and physical approval from a regional UIDAI office. It is important to note that each minor correction counts as one update, so individuals should ensure accuracy when submitting the first update itself. For individuals whose name change is connected to marriage, the guide on reissuing a court marriage certificate may also be relevant.

Legal Procedure for a Major Name Change

When a major name change is required, or when the two-update limit has been reached, a defined legal procedure must be followed. First, the individual must execute a name change affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper of the appropriate value (which varies by state, typically ranging from Rs. 10 to Rs. 100). The affidavit must state the old name, the new name, and the reason for the change, and must be sworn before a notary public or a magistrate. Second, the name change must be published in at least two newspapers: one in English and one in the regional language of the state where the individual resides. The newspaper publication serves as public notice of the name change. Third, the individual must obtain a Gazette Notification by applying to the Department of Publication, Government of India, or the relevant state government authority. The Gazette Notification is the official government record of the name change and serves as the primary legal document for updating all records, including Aadhaar. This three-step process of affidavit, newspaper publication, and gazette notification forms the legal backbone of a formal name change in India.

Updating Aadhaar After Completing the Legal Process

Once the gazette notification and newspaper publications are obtained, the individual must visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre to submit the update request. Name changes involving major alterations or changes after exhausting the two-update limit cannot be processed online through the myAadhaar portal. At the enrolment centre, the individual must submit the Aadhaar Update Form along with the original gazette notification, newspaper clippings, the notarized affidavit, and a valid Proof of Identity document (such as a passport or PAN card) bearing the old name with photograph. The update fee is Rs. 50, payable through UPI, debit or credit card, or net banking. Processing typically takes 30 to 90 days, after which the updated Aadhaar card can be downloaded from the UIDAI portal. For context on how legal documentation processes work in other settings, see the guide on applying for letters of administration.

Documents Required for Aadhaar Name Change

The documents required for an Aadhaar name change through legal procedure include the Aadhaar Update or Correction Form, a valid Proof of Identity document bearing the old name with photograph (such as passport, PAN card, voter ID, or driving licence), the notarized name change affidavit on stamp paper, the Gazette Notification, and newspaper clippings showing the name change publication. In cases where the name change is due to marriage, a marriage certificate must be submitted. For divorce-related changes, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required. For adoption-related name changes, the adoption certificate or court order must be provided. It is advisable to carry both originals and self-attested photocopies of all documents to the enrolment centre. For those navigating related execution of court orders, a separate procedural guide is available.

Key Takeaways

Changing or correcting a name on the Aadhaar card requires adherence to a defined procedure depending on the nature and extent of the change. Minor spelling corrections can be made directly at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre with supporting Proof of Identity documents and payment of Rs. 50. Major name changes require a notarized affidavit, newspaper publication in two languages, and a Gazette Notification before the Aadhaar update can be processed. UIDAI permits a maximum of two name updates; after that, gazette notification and regional office approval become mandatory. Processing takes 30 to 90 days after submission. For related legal procedures, readers may refer to guides on contesting a will in India, applications for condonation of delay, and restoration of dismissed civil cases.