New UIDAI Rules Explained: Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your Name in Aadhaar

Updating your name in Aadhaar is no longer a casual correction process. With rising concerns over identity misuse and document mismatches, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has tightened its rules for Aadhaar name changes. Even a small error or mismatch in your Aadhaar details can create serious problems, from PAN linking issues to bank account verification failures and denial of government benefits.

To address these concerns, UIDAI has introduced stricter documentation requirements, including mandatory Gazette Notification in specific cases. Understanding these updated rules is essential before initiating a name change request.

When Is a Gazette Notification Mandatory for Aadhaar Name Change?

Not all name updates require a Gazette Notification. UIDAI clearly differentiates between minor corrections and major name changes.

A Gazette Notification is not required in cases such as:

• Minor spelling mistakes

• Small typographical corrections

• Adjustments due to clerical errors

However, a Gazette Notification becomes mandatory if you are:

• Changing your full first name

• Modifying or replacing your surname

• Adopting a new name after marriage

• Making any major alteration that changes your identity

This requirement ensures that the name change is legally recognised across all government and financial records, preventing duplication or identity fraud.

Step-by-Step Process to Change Your Name as per New UIDAI Rules

The updated Aadhaar name change process follows a structured legal route:

Step 1: Prepare an Affidavit

The first step is creating a notarised affidavit stating your old name, new name, and the reason for the change. This document acts as the foundation of your legal identity update.

Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisements

You must publish your name change notice in:

• One English newspaper

• One regional language newspaper

These advertisements serve as public declarations of your name change.

Step 3: Apply for Gazette Notification

Submit your affidavit, newspaper copies, identity proof, photographs, and application form to the Department of Publication, Government of India. Once approved, your name change will be officially published in the Gazette.

Step 4: Update Aadhaar and Other Documents

After Gazette publication, your new name becomes legally valid. You can then update your Aadhaar, PAN, passport, bank records, and other official documents using the Gazette copy as proof.

What Happens If You Ignore the UIDAI Name Change Rules?

Failing to follow the prescribed process can result in rejection of your Aadhaar update request. For example, submitting a major name change application at an Aadhaar centre without a Gazette Notification will likely be refused.

Such inconsistencies may lead to:

• PAN and Aadhaar linking failures

• Banking and KYC issues

• Problems accessing government schemes

• Delays in passport or document verification

Following the official process ensures uniformity across all identity records.

Important Clarification on Authority and Assistance

Many applicants assume UIDAI directly handles Gazette publications, but this is incorrect. Gazette notifications are issued only by the Department of Publication under the central government. Once your name is published, it holds nationwide legal validity and cannot be rejected by any institution.

Completing the formal process is the safest and most reliable way to update your identity.