The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing a major overhaul of the Aadhaar card format beginning December 2025. Under the proposed update, newly issued Aadhaar cards will display only the holder’s photograph and a secure QR code. Personal details such as name, address, date of birth, and Aadhaar number will no longer be printed on the physical card. This marks one of the most significant privacy-focused changes since Aadhaar was introduced.
What Is Changing in December 2025
UIDAI is considering redesigning the Aadhaar card so that it contains only two visible elements:
• A passport-size photograph
• A digitally secure QR code
All personal information will be encoded within the QR code rather than printed on the surface. Only authorised apps and scanners will be able to access the encoded details after proper verification.
This change aims to:
• Prevent misuse of Aadhaar photocopies
• Strengthen citizens’ privacy
• Promote secure digital verification instead of paper-based identity proof
• Reduce identity theft and unauthorised storage of Aadhaar data
Why UIDAI Is Making This Change
Many organisations still collect photocopies of Aadhaar for offline verification, increasing the risk of personal data exposure. With the redesign, even if a photocopy is taken, it will reveal nothing except the photograph and QR code. The QR code contains digitally signed data, which ensures authenticity without revealing sensitive information in printed form.
UIDAI is also expected to strengthen its digital Aadhaar ecosystem, including QR-based verification apps, to make the transition smooth for service providers.
What This Means for Citizens
If implemented, Aadhaar holders can expect the following:
• New Aadhaar cards issued after December 2025 will have no visible personal information.
• Identity verification will shift to QR-based scanning instead of photocopy submissions.
• Hotels, telecom operators, banks, event venues, and other service providers will need to adopt QR-based verification systems.
• Digital Aadhaar usage will become more common, increasing security and reducing misuse.
For existing Aadhaar holders, no immediate action is required. The update applies to new cards issued or reissued after the rollout.
How to Prepare for the Change
To ensure seamless use of Aadhaar after the update:
• Keep your Aadhaar-linked mobile number active for OTP-based verification.
• Avoid sharing photocopies of your current Aadhaar whenever possible; choose digital or masked Aadhaar options.
• Update your Aadhaar details if your address, phone number, or email has changed.
• Stay alert for UIDAI announcements regarding new verification apps or processes.
Takeaways
The UIDAI’s proposed Aadhaar redesign represents a strong shift toward privacy protection and secure identity verification. By removing printed personal information and using a QR-only format, Aadhaar is moving toward a safer, more digital-first future. The change reduces misuse risks while offering citizens greater control over how their information is accessed.
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