Planning to Change Surname in Aadhaar? Here's the New Government Rule and Full Step-by-Step Process

The Aadhaar card has become a crucial identity document for every Indian — essential for accessing government benefits, banking services, and even private transactions. If you’ve recently changed your surname due to marriage, divorce, or personal reasons, it’s important to update it in your Aadhaar to avoid discrepancies in documentation.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has set new guidelines for updating name or surname in Aadhaar, including a limit on how many times you can make such changes.

Important Rule:

You can change your name on Aadhaar only twice in your lifetime. Make sure your request is valid and properly documented to avoid issues in future verifications.

How to Change Surname in Aadhaar Complete Online Process

You can change your surname from the comfort of your home with just a phone and internet access.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Visit the official UIDAI website

Click on the “My Aadhaar” tab

Select “Update Aadhaar Online” and log in using your Aadhaar number and OTP

Choose the “Update Name” option

Fill in the new surname and upload the supporting document
Example: Marriage Certificate, Gazette Notification, Divorce Decree, etc.

Pay the ₹50 non-refundable fee

Review the information, then click on “Submit”

Note down the SRN (Service Request Number)
This helps you track your update status later

Documents Accepted for Surname Change

You must upload a valid proof of name change. Some accepted documents include:

• Marriage Certificate issued by a government authority

• Gazette Notification (for non-marriage-related surname changes)

• Legal name change affidavit

• Court Decree (in case of divorce-related surname change)

How to Check the Status of Aadhaar Name Update

Once submitted, follow these steps to track the status of your update:

Go to the “My Aadhaar” section on UIDAI website

Click on “Check Aadhaar Update Status”

Select “SRN” and enter your SRN number + Captcha

Click on “Submit”

The live status of your update will be shown on-screen

Why It’s Important to Keep Your Aadhaar Updated

• Ensures consistency across all official documents

• Reduces the chance of verification failures

• Needed for passport, PAN, bank accounts, and digital KYC

• Smooth access to government schemes and subsidies