How to Download e-Aadhaar: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Aadhaar card is a unique identity document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is evidence of Indian residents' identity and address. While the physical Aadhaar card is sent by post, UIDAI also provides the facility to download a digital version called e-Aadhaar. This electronic Aadhaar is equally valid and can be used in both digital and print form for verification and official purposes.
In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to download your e-Aadhaar safely and easily through different methods. Whether you have your Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID (EID), Virtual ID (VID), or just your registered mobile number, UIDAI offers multiple ways to access your digital Aadhaar.
What is e-Aadhaar?
e-Aadhaar is the digital version of your Aadhaar card, issued by UIDAI. It contains all your demographic and biometric information, similar to the physical card, including:
- Your 12-digit Aadhaar number
- Photograph
- Name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- QR code for quick verification
This digital document is signed with a digital signature by UIDAI, making it a legally valid document under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Methods to Download e-Aadhaar
There are four major methods to download your e-Aadhaar:
-
Using Aadhaar Number
-
Using Enrolment ID (EID)
-
Using Virtual ID (VID)
-
Using DigiLocker
Let’s walk through each of them.
1. Download e-Aadhaar Using Aadhaar Number
If you have your 12-digit Aadhaar number, this is the easiest method:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Visit the official UIDAI website: https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
-
Just click on “Download Aadhaar” under the "My Aadhaar" section.
-
and select the “Aadhaar” prospect under the "I have" section.
-
Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number.
-
Type the security code shown on the screen.
-
Click on “Send OTP”.
-
You’ll receive a 6-digit OTP on your registered mobile number.
-
Enter the OTP and click “Verify & Download”.
-
Your e-Aadhaar PDF will be downloaded.
Important Note:
2. Download e-Aadhaar Using Enrolment ID (EID)
If you haven’t received your Aadhaar card yet but have completed the enrolment process, you can download the e-Aadhaar using your Enrolment ID.
What is EID?
Steps to Follow:
-
Click on “Download Aadhaar”.
-
Choose the “Enrolment ID (EID)” option.
-
Enter your EID (with date and time of enrolment).
-
Fill in the security code.
-
Click on “Send OTP”.
-
Enter the OTP received on your mobile number.
-
Click “Verify & Download”.
The e-Aadhaar will be downloaded in PDF format.
3. Download e-Aadhaar Using Virtual ID (VID)
The Virtual ID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit number linked to your Aadhaar number. It’s a great way to safeguard your Aadhaar while still allowing services.
Steps to Download:
-
Select “VID” under “I have”.
-
Enter your 16-digit VID number.
-
Fill in the captcha/security code.
-
Click on “Send OTP”.
-
Enter the OTP received on your mobile.
-
Click “Verify & Download” to get your e-Aadhaar.
4. Download e-Aadhaar via DigiLocker
DigiLocker is a government enterprise for cloud storage of authorized documents.
Steps to Get Aadhaar from DigiLocker:
-
Visit https://www.digilocker.gov.in/ or open the DigiLocker app.
-
Log in using your mobile number or Aadhaar-linked credentials.
-
Go to “Issued Documents”.
-
Select “UIDAI” as the issuing authority.
-
Click on “Aadhaar”.
-
Your Aadhaar will be fetched and available for download.
Note: This version is digitally signed and can be used for verification purposes.
Additional Ways to Get e-Aadhaar
Using mAadhaar App:
-
You can download the mAadhaar app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
-
Register using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
-
After logging in, you can view or download your Aadhaar card in PDF format.
Things to Remember
- Registered Mobile Number is Mandatory: You must have access to the mobile number registered with Aadhaar to receive OTP.
- Password Protected PDF: The downloaded e-Aadhaar is in a secure PDF format, requiring a password to open.
- Digital Signature Validity: Ensure the digital signature is verified when using it for official purposes.
- Free of Cost: Downloading e-Aadhaar is completely free.
- Updated Information: If your details have changed recently, download the latest version to reflect those updates.
Is e-Aadhaar Valid Like the Physical Card?
Yes. As per UIDAI and the Aadhaar Act, e-Aadhaar is equally valid as the physical Aadhaar card. It carries the same information and digital signature, making it legally acceptable across India for:
- Bank verification
- Mobile SIM activation
- PAN-Aadhaar linking
- Government subsidy claims
- Educational institutions
- Employment verification
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I download e-Aadhaar without a registered mobile number?
No, OTP will be sent only to the registered mobile number. Without it, you cannot authenticate the download.
2. What if I lost (failed) my Aadhaar or EID number?
You can retrieve it by visiting https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/retrieve-eid-uid and entering your details to receive it on your mobile.
3. Is the e-Aadhaar valid everywhere?
Yes, e-Aadhaar is valid across India for all Aadhaar-based services and verifications.
4. Can I use e-Aadhaar for travel?
For domestic travel, most airlines and railways accept e-Aadhaar as valid ID proof, but always check with the specific authority.
Conclusion
Downloading e-Aadhaar is a quick and secure process, available to anyone who has registered for Aadhaar. It’s a convenient way to keep a soft copy of your identity document on your phone or laptop for emergencies or daily use. Make sure your mobile number is registered and updated with UIDAI to use these facilities smoothly.
By following the step-by-step instructions above, you can easily download and use your e-Aadhaar anytime, anywhere.
About Manikandan
No comments