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The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has implemented several key changes in Aadhaar-related regulations this year, directly impacting millions of citizens across the country. From increased update fees to revised document lists, the 2025 reforms aim to modernize Aadhaar services and enhance security. However, the biggest transformation is yet to come — a major digital update scheduled for November 1, 2025, that will make Aadhaar management even more seamless.

Aadhaar Update Now More Expensive

Starting October 1, 2025, the cost of updating Aadhaar details has officially gone up.

• The fee for updating name, address, date of birth, or mobile number is now ₹75, compared to the earlier ₹50.

• Updating biometric details like fingerprints, iris scans, or photographs will now cost ₹125, instead of ₹100.

According to UIDAI, this fee revision will remain in effect until 2028. The department clarified that the price increase reflects the growing costs of improving technology, infrastructure, and service quality.

While these hikes might feel like a small burden for users, UIDAI emphasized that the improved digital systems will make updates faster, more accurate, and less error-prone.

Free Biometric Updates for Children

Amid rising costs, UIDAI has introduced a relief measure for children. Biometric updates for kids aged 7 to 15 years are now completely free.

UIDAI stated that since children’s facial features and fingerprints change with age, regular biometric updates are necessary to maintain accurate identification records. Schools have also been advised to ensure that children’s Aadhaar remains active and up to date.

Revised Document List for All Categories

In July 2025, UIDAI released a new list of acceptable documents for Aadhaar enrollment and updates. This list applies to Indian citizens, NRIs, OCI cardholders, and HUFs (Hindu Undivided Families).

The updated guidelines provide greater clarity on valid proofs of identity, address, and date of birth. UIDAI also reiterated that every individual must have only one Aadhaar number. Any instance of duplicate Aadhaar entries could invite legal action.

End of Free Online Updates

The earlier free Aadhaar update window, which allowed users to update their details online without charges, ended on June 14, 2025.

Now, all updates — whether online or at Aadhaar Seva Kendras — will require payment of the applicable fee. Those who missed the free-update deadline will need to pay slightly more for the same service.

Experts believe UIDAI might reopen free update windows in the future for specific periods, so it’s important for Aadhaar holders to stay informed through official announcements.

Why Aadhaar Updates Are Important

Aadhaar has evolved into a central pillar of digital identity in India. It’s essential for a wide range of activities — from bank account verification and government welfare schemes to property transactions, investments, and school admissions.

If your Aadhaar contains outdated information like an old address or inactive mobile number, it can delay e-KYC verification or restrict access to financial and government services. Keeping Aadhaar details current ensures smoother, hassle-free transactions across platforms.

Big Digital Change from November 1

The most awaited update comes into effect on November 1, 2025. UIDAI is expected to roll out a fully digital update system, allowing users to modify key details — such as name, address, date of birth, gender, and mobile number — entirely online, without needing to visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

The new system will use government databases and advanced digital verification tools to automatically validate a person’s identity, eliminating the need for document uploads or manual checks.

However, biometric updates like fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs will still require physical verification at designated centers, as these need specialized equipment.

What Aadhaar Holders Should Do Now

To stay compliant and ready for the upcoming changes, UIDAI advises citizens to:

• Visit the official UIDAI website and verify all Aadhaar details.

• Correct any outdated or incorrect information online before November.

• Ensure children’s biometrics are updated at age 7 and 15.

• Check PAN-Aadhaar linking status to prevent financial service disruptions.

Conclusion

The 2025 Aadhaar reforms reflect the government’s broader push towards digital transformation and stronger data security. While update costs have slightly increased, the process itself is becoming faster, simpler, and more reliable.

For millions of users — especially in rural and semi-urban areas — these changes will make managing Aadhaar more accessible than ever. As India steps closer to a digitally verified identity system, Aadhaar continues to be more than just an ID card — it’s an essential key to everyday life in modern India.