Name Change in Aadhaar Card 

Aadhar Card Name Change: A Complete Legal Guide for 2026 

Aadhar card name change is a critical step for anyone who has recently undergone a major life transition. Whether you have recently married, corrected a clerical error, or legally changed your identity, your Aadhaar must reflect your current legal name. Since the Aadhaar card serves as the foundational identity document in India, any discrepancy can lead to the rejection of bank loans, passport applications, and government subsidies.

Ensuring your records are accurate is not just about convenience; it is a legal necessity. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of an aadhar card name change, covering everything from the initial affidavit to the final government notification.

Understanding the Need for an Aadhar Card Name Change 

An aadhar card name change is often required due to various social and legal reasons. For many, a name is a reflection of their identity and heritage. When that name changes, all digital and physical records must be synchronized to avoid "mismatch" errors during KYC (Know Your Customer) verifications.

The process of a name change in aadhar card has been streamlined by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). However, it is important to note that as of 2026, major demographic updates like a full name change must be completed at a physical Aadhaar Seva Kendra, while only address updates remain available through the online portal. 

Step-by-Step Guide for Aadhaar Card Name Correction 

The aadhar card name update process involves a systematic legal approach. If you are changing your name entirely (not just a minor spelling fix), you must follow the official government procedure for a legal name change. 

Step 1: Drafting the Name Change Affidavit

The first legal step is to create an affidavit. This is a formal declaration made on a non-judicial stamp paper. It must state your old name, your new name, your current address, and the reason for the change. This document must be witnessed and signed by a Notary Public.

Step 2: Newspaper Advertisement

OPublish an ad about the name change in your state's local newspaper. This is published as a public announcement. Keep at least five original copies of the newspaper page. Don't simply cut out the ad; the date and name of the paper must be visible.

Step 3: Gazette Notification

For a permanent and legally foolproof record, applying for a gazette notification for aadhar card name change is highly recommended. In fact, if you have already exhausted your two-time limit for Aadhaar name corrections, a gazette notification for name change in aadhaar card becomes mandatory. You must submit your application to the Department of Publication with the required fees.

Step 4: Visit the Aadhaar Seva Kendra

After receiving your gazette notification for aadhaar card, you must visit an authorized enrolment centre. There, you will fill out the aadhaar card name correction form, provide your biometrics, and submit your supporting legal documents.

Documents Checklist for Aadhar Card Name Update 

To update name in aadhar card, you need specific "Proof of Identity" (POI) documents. Below is a detailed table to help you prepare your paperwork. 

Document Name                        -           Purpose 

Gazette Notification                  -           Legal proof for full name change 

Marriage Certificate                  -           Proof for surname change after marriage 

Passport                                    -           Standard Identity Proof     

PAN Card                                   -           Identity proof with photo   

Voter ID Card                            -            Identity and Address proof 

Divorce Decree                        -            Proof for reverting to maiden name 

Fees and Timeline for Aadhar Card Name Change 

The government has structured the fees for an aadhar card name change to keep it affordable for the common man. However, the legal steps preceding the Aadhaar update (like the Gazette) involve separate costs. 

• Aadhaar Update Fee: A standard fee of ₹75 is charged for demographic updates (name, gender, DOB) at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

• Gazette Notification Fee: This usually ranges from ₹1,100 to ₹1,500 for general citizens, depending on the urgency and type of notification.

• Timeline: After submitting the request at the centre, it typically takes 30 to 90 days for the system to reflect the new name. You can track your status using the Update Request Number (URN) provided on your acknowledgement slip.

Why a Gazette for Update Name in Aadhaar is Essential

Using a gazette for update name in aadhaar is the gold standard for legal verification. While a marriage certificate might suffice for a simple surname change, a full name change or a change in religion requires a gazette notification for name change.

Without this official government publication, many institutions—especially passport offices and banks—may refuse to recognize your new identity. The Gazette serves as an ultimate legal shield, proving that the person with the "Old Name" and the person with the "New Name" are legally one and the same.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. Is a Gazette notification mandatory for every name change?

It is mandatory if you are changing your name for the third time or if you are changing your name completely (not just a spelling correction). For minor spelling fixes, a PAN card or Passport might be sufficient.

2. Can I change my name in Aadhaar online?

No. As per the latest 2026 guidelines, name updates must be done offline at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra. Only address changes can be processed through the online self-service portal.

3. How many times can I change my name in Aadhaar?

A resident is generally allowed to change their name only twice in a lifetime. Any subsequent change requires special permission and a mandatory Gazette notification.

4. Can I change my name after marriage without a Gazette?

Yes, a marriage certificate issued by the Registrar of Marriages is usually accepted as valid proof for changing your surname or adding a middle name after marriage.

5. What should I do if my request is rejected?

Rejections often happen due to "Data Mismatch" or "Insufficient Proof." Ensure your documents are self-attested and that the name in the proof matches exactly with what you want in your Aadhaar.

Conclusion: Secure Your Identity Today

Completing an aadhar card name change is a vital step in maintaining your legal standing in India. While the process involves several steps—including affidavits, newspaper ads, and Gazette filings—it ensures that your most important identity document remains accurate and valid for years to come.