UIDAI revises Aadhaar card name update rules, sets new document norms

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 earlier process and categorises name updates based on the type of correction being requested.

The rules set different document requirements for minor corrections, data-entry mistakes, changes after marriage or divorce and complete name changes. UIDAI has also said that documents, affidavits and Gazette notifications submitted for name updates will be verified before a request is processed. Here are five things Aadhaar holders need to know about the new rules.

1. Minor name corrections can be made with valid documents

Small changes where the person's identity remains the same 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 where the pronunciation remains similar.

For such requests, applicants need to submit an applicable Proof of Identity (PoI). For children below 18 years, an applicable Proof of Relationship (PoR) may also be used in cases of Head of Family (HoF)-based name updates.

UIDAI's examples include changing "Ram" to "Rama", "Somya" to "Saumya" or adding a middle name.

2. Data-entry errors need an affidavit

If the name was incorrectly entered in Aadhaar because of a data-entry error, the process is different. For adults, UIDAI requires an Annexure B affidavit along with a PoI or PoR.

For minors, the parent or legal guardian must submit an Annexure C affidavit along with the applicable PoI or PoR.

However, the requested name must match the correct name appearing in a document previously submitted to UIDAI. If it does not match, the request can be rejected.

3. Marriage and divorce-related surname changes have separate rules

Women seeking to change their surname in Aadhaar after marriage or divorce can submit an Annexure D affidavit along with a PoI. The affidavit confirms that the surname change is because of marriage or divorce and does not involve a change in identity.

UIDAI also lists a registered marriage certificate as supporting documentation in such cases.

The SOP separately covers name changes following a change of gender, requiring an applicable PoI.

4. Some corrections do not need a document

UIDAI has also specified certain cases where no document is required. These include correcting random capitalisation, such as changing "RaMesh" to "Ramesh", and removing dots from names.

There are also specific rules for names containing "urf" or "alias". Adults seeking to retain one of the names must submit an Annexure E affidavit and PoI, while minors require an Annexure F affidavit along with PoI or PoR.

Names should otherwise be recorded without aliases, prefixes, military ranks, designations and dots or other special characters.

5. Complete name changes require Gazette notification

A complete name change or a change that amounts to a change of identity is classified as a major name change. In such cases, a Gazette Notification for the name change is mandatory, along with the applicable PoI, according to NDTV.

UIDAI says the newly requested name will be compared with previously recorded or updated names. It will also verify the authenticity of submitted identity and relationship documents, affidavits and Gazette notifications before processing the request. The revised SOP came into effect from the date of the circular's signing on September 18, 2026.