Aadhaar Update on Fast Forward? Why Two Days Might Not Be Your Reality

The Aadhaar card, a vital piece of identification in India, stores your demographic information and serves as a key for various government services. But life throws curveballs, and sometimes your address or other details change. Ideally, you’d want to update your Aadhaar right away. So, the question pops up: can you get your Aadhaar updated in a mere two days? Let’s dive in and understand the current process.

Busting the Myth: The Reality of Aadhaar Updates

Unfortunately, updating your Aadhaar card online or offline takes considerably longer than two days. The current processing timeline for online and offline Aadhaar updates typically falls within a range of 30 to 90 days. While some updates might be processed faster, there’s no guaranteed two-day turnaround.

Here’s why a speedy update might not be feasible:

• Verification Process: Updating Aadhaar data involves meticulous verification. The authorities need to ensure the legitimacy of your new information and the supporting documents. This verification process takes time.
• Data Security: Aadhaar plays a crucial role in financial transactions and other sensitive applications. Maintaining data integrity is paramount. Stringent security protocols add to the processing time.

Exploring Your Update Options: Online vs Offline

There are two primary ways to update your Aadhaar card:

1. Online Update: This method offers convenience, allowing you to update your address and some documents (like phone number) directly through the UIDAI’s Self Service Update Portal (SSUP). The benefit is skipping the queues at enrollment centers. However, online updates have limitations. Currently, you cannot update your name, date of birth, or gender online.

2. Offline Update: You can visit a Permanent Enrollment Centre (PEC) to initiate your Aadhaar update. PECs can handle all types of updates, including name, address, date of birth, and even biometric information. While this method might involve waiting in line, it provides a one-stop solution for all your update needs.

The Update Process: What to Expect

Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect during an Aadhaar update, irrespective of the chosen method:

1. Gather Documents: Ensure you have the required documents to support your update request. These typically include proof of address, identity proof, and possibly documents specific to the update type (like birth certificate for date of birth change).

2. Fill Out the Update Request: This involves providing accurate details and submitting the required documents, either online or at the PEC.

3. Biometric Verification (if applicable): In some cases, you might need to undergo fingerprint or iris scan verification for confirmation.

4. Payment of Fees: A nominal fee is usually levied for processing the update request.

5. Track the Status: You’ll receive a reference number to track the progress of your update request online or through the UIDAI helpline.

While the two-day update might be wishful thinking, remember that keeping your Aadhaar information current ensures a smooth experience when availing Aadhaar-based services. So, plan your update in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.