Aadhaar Name Change Rules 2026: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has changed the process for updating names in Aadhaar. The new rules explain what documents are needed for different types of name changes and corrections.
UIDAI uploaded the revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on September 18, 2026. It replaces the earlier process followed under the exception-handling system.
The main point is that a small correction and a complete name change aren’t treated in the same way. A spelling mistake or adding a surname can follow a simpler process. A major change in identity may need a Gazette notification.
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What Changes Can Be Treated As Minor Corrections?
- Expanding a shortened name
- Changing a full name into initials
- Adding or removing a middle name
- Adding or removing a surname
- Changing the order of names
- Making a small English spelling correction when the pronunciation remains similar
For these requests, the applicant needs the required Proof of Identity (PoI). In cases involving a child through the Head of Family process, the applicable PoI or Proof of Relationship (PoR) may also be needed. The name entered in Aadhaar will follow the spelling and order shown on the document submitted by the applicant.
Rules For Marriage, Divorce And UIDAI Data Errors
The new SOP also deals with cases where a woman’s surname changes after marriage or divorce. Applicants have to provide the prescribed affidavit along with the required PoI.
A separate procedure applies when UIDAI itself made a mistake while entering the name. If the original document had the correct name but the Aadhaar record was entered incorrectly, an affidavit in the prescribed format has to be submitted along with the relevant PoI or PoR.
For children, the prescribed affidavit for minors is applicable. UIDAI has also laid down a process for name changes after a change of gender. The required PoI has to be submitted for such requests.
Some Aadhaar Name Corrections Don’t Need Documents
Certain formatting changes can be made without supporting documents under the specified process. These include removing randomly used capital letters and removing dots from a name. UIDAI also doesn’t allow some words and details to be added to an Aadhaar name. These include:
- “urf” or “alias”
- Prefixes
- Military ranks
- Job designations
- Service details
- Awards and decorations
- Dots and other special characters
If “urf” or “alias” is already present in the Aadhaar name, its removal requires the prescribed affidavit and applicable PoI.
Major Name Change Requires Gazette Notification
A much stricter process applies when someone wants to completely change their name or make a change that affects their identity. In such cases, an ordinary identity document alone isn’t enough. The applicant must submit the required PoI along with a Gazette notification showing the name change.
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UIDAI will also check the documents provided during the process. This can include identity or relationship documents, affidavits and Gazette notifications wherever they are required.
What To Check Before Updating Your Aadhaar Name
Aadhaar holders should first understand what type of change they want before applying. The documents needed can change depending on the reason for the request. Before visiting an Aadhaar update centre, check:
- Whether it’s a minor correction or a major name change
- Whether the change is related to marriage or divorce
- Whether the name was entered incorrectly by UIDAI
- Which PoI or PoR is required
- Whether an affidavit is needed
- Whether a Gazette notification is required
The revised SOP listed by UIDAI on September 18, 2026, gives a clearer framework for handling different types of Aadhaar name changes.
