How to Update Biometrics in Aadhaar Card at Home
Aadhaar, the unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Indian government, plays a pivotal role in providing identity verification and facilitating access to various government schemes. One of the critical aspects of Aadhaar is the biometric information—fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs—which must be accurate and up-to-date for smooth functioning. But what if your biometric data has changed, or there is an issue with the recorded information? The good news is that the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) allows you to update your biometrics from the comfort of your home. In this guide, we will walk you through every step to make the process as seamless as possible.
How to Update Biometrics in Aadhaar Card at Home
Why Updating Biometrics in Aadhaar is Essential
There are multiple reasons why you may need to update your biometrics in Aadhaar:
- Aging: Biometric information, particularly fingerprints, may change over time. Aging can affect the accuracy of fingerprint data, making it difficult for authentication.
- Injury or Physical Changes: If you have experienced any injuries or medical conditions that have altered your fingerprints or iris scans, updating your biometrics becomes necessary.
- Technological Issues: Sometimes, the biometric data recorded initially may have issues, such as low-quality images or inaccurate scans, making it essential to update.
Failing to update this data can result in authentication errors, especially when accessing government schemes or banking services.
Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Aadhaar Biometrics at Home
Updating your Aadhaar biometrics at home is not just convenient, but also simple. Below are the steps to guide you through the process:
1. Visit the UIDAI Portal
The first step is to visit the official UIDAI website (uidai.gov.in). UIDAI is responsible for managing Aadhaar and all its associated services, including biometric updates.
- Open the homepage of the website.
- Navigate to the ‘My Aadhaar’ section in the menu.
- Click on the ‘Update Your Aadhaar’ link.
2. Check Eligibility for Online Biometric Update
Not all biometric updates can be performed at home. As of the latest UIDAI guidelines, online biometric updates are limited to specific cases. For example:
- If you need to update your photograph.
- If minor biometric corrections are needed (e.g., small adjustments in iris or fingerprint scans).
However, more significant biometric updates, such as complete changes to fingerprints or iris data, may require a visit to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
3. Download and Install the mAadhaar App
To make the process easier, download the mAadhaar app, available for both Android and iOS. The app not only allows you to manage your Aadhaar information but also simplifies the biometric update process.
- Go to Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Search for mAadhaar and install the app.
- Open the app and sign in using your Aadhaar credentials.
4. Request OTP for Verification
Once you’re logged in to the app, you’ll be required to verify your identity before making any updates. Follow these steps:
- Enter your Aadhaar number and click on the ‘Send OTP’ button.
- You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP to complete the verification.
5. Choose the Update Type
Now that you’re verified, proceed to select the type of update you want to make. If you’re eligible to update your biometrics online, the following options will be available:
- Photograph Update: If you want to change your photograph, select this option and upload a new photo.
- Fingerprint/Iris Correction: If you have minor errors in your fingerprint or iris scan, you can opt to upload the corrected information.
6. Upload Required Documents
For specific biometric updates, you may need to upload supporting documents. These could include:
- Identity Proof (Voter ID, Passport, etc.).
- Address Proof (Utility Bill, Driving License, etc.).
- Biometric Correction Documentation, if applicable.
Ensure all documents are scanned and clear before uploading.
7. Submit the Request and Track the Status
Once all necessary information is entered, click the ‘Submit’ button to complete the process. You will receive an Acknowledgment Number, which can be used to track the status of your request. You can do this by:
- Visiting the UIDAI portal again.
- Clicking on the ‘Check Aadhaar Update Status’ link.
- Enter your Acknowledgment Number to view the status.
Typically, biometric updates take around 5 to 10 working days for completion.
8. Aadhaar Seva Kendra Option
In case your biometric update requires a physical presence, you can always opt for an appointment at the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. This is necessary for:
- Complete biometric re-registration.
- Major errors in previously recorded biometric data.
To book an appointment:
- Visit the UIDAI portal.
- Click on ‘Book an Appointment’.
- Choose a nearby Aadhaar Seva Kendra and a convenient time slot.
Common Issues When Updating Aadhaar Biometrics
Although the process is streamlined, there are a few common problems that users may face during their Aadhaar biometric update. These include:
- Mobile Number Not Registered: You must have a registered mobile number to receive OTPs for verification. If your mobile number is not registered, visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Center to get it updated.
- Invalid Photo Upload: The photo you upload must meet certain specifications, such as resolution and size. Ensure the photo is clear and adheres to UIDAI guidelines.
- Server Errors: Occasionally, UIDAI servers may be down or unresponsive. In such cases, retry after some time or reach out to customer support.
Conclusion
Keeping your Aadhaar biometrics updated is crucial to ensure seamless authentication for various government and banking services. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily update your biometric data from the comfort of your home using the UIDAI portal or the mAadhaar app. Always ensure that your information is accurate to avoid future complications.