If you are preparing to make a new Aadhaar card or make changes in the old Aadhaar, then this news is very important for you. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has made a major change in the rules related to Aadhaar enrollment and update. Under the new rules, many new documents have now been recognized, while the scrutiny of documents has been made more strict than before. UIDAI has tried to make the Aadhaar process more modern and simpler by implementing the Aadhaar (Enrolment and Update) First Amendment Regulations, 2026.
Now these new documents will also be valid
UIDAI has increased the list of documents accepted for making and updating Aadhaar. Now documents like e-Voter ID, e-Ration Card, pension payment order, marriage certificate, divorce order, bank passbook, insurance policy, electricity-water bill, educational certificate and registered rent agreement will also be valid. Apart from this, NREGA job card, shelter home certificate and prisoner identity card have also been included.
Strict rules will apply for documents
UIDAI has made it clear that any document will be valid only if it is valid and not expired. The document should be in the name of the same person who is applying for Aadhaar. It will be necessary to have name and photo in the Identity Card (PoI). At the same time, in family based applications, it has been made mandatory to have the name of both the head of the family and the applicant in the Certificate of Relationship (PoR).
Rules changed for children also
Now birth certificate will be considered the most important document for children below 5 years of age. Besides, it will also be mandatory to provide documents of parents or guardian. Head of Family (HoF) based enrollment has been promoted for children aged 5 to 18 years. However, if needed, document based application will also be accepted.
New system for foreign citizens and OCI cardholders
UIDAI has also fixed the deadline for Aadhaar validity for foreign nationals, OCI cardholders, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. For OCI cardholders and citizens of Nepal-Bhutan, Aadhaar will be valid for 10 years, while for other foreign nationals, Aadhaar will be valid only for the duration of their visa.
Relief to transgenders and people with special needs
In the new rules, transgender identity card and certificate have also been recognized for Aadhaar update. Apart from this, special provisions have also been added for orphan children, disabled persons and people living under legal guardianship. Separate arrangements have also been made for shelter homes, child care institutions and HIV/AIDS affected people.
