New Aadhaar Rule Coming in December: UIDAI Plans New Card Showing Only Photo, QR Code

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing to roll out a new Aadhaar rule in December 2025. Under this proposed change, the Aadhaar card will only display the holder's photograph and a QR code, removing sensitive details such as name, address, and Aadhaar number from the physical card which will prevent misuse of Aadhaar data during offline verification.

Aadhaar New Rule

According to reports, the UIDAI new Aadhaar update is designed to stop the widespread practice of sharing photocopies of Aadhaar cards at hotels, events, and residential societies. Over the years, authorities have flagged incidents of identity theft and data leakage due to physical Aadhaar copies being misused.

At a recent Aadhaar conference, UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar confirmed that the authority plans to introduce the new Aadhaar security rule in December 2025. He explained that the updated format, displaying only a photo and QR code, will help carry out offline Aadhaar verification providing stronger privacy protection for residents.

UIDAI's Webinar on the New Aadhaar App & Offline Verification

As reported by PTI, UIDAI recently held a webinar titled "Offline Verification Using the Aadhaar App" in which over 250 organisations and individuals participated, including hospitality firms, event organisers, and security management companies.
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar said that offline verification provides a secure, convenient, and privacy-focused method of identity verification far safer than handing over Aadhaar photocopies.

Key Features of the Upcoming New Aadhaar App

UIDAI also listed the benefits that residents can expect once the new Aadhaar App is formally launched:

• The new Aadhaar app will have the ability to store Aadhaar details of up to five family members
• User will get full control over what Aadhaar data is shared
• Option to share complete or selective Aadhaar information
• One-click biometric lock/unlock for enhanced security
• Easy mobile number and address update features
• Secure offline face verification for proof of identity

How to Download and Activate the Aadhaar App

Step 1: Download the Aadhaar app from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS).
Step 2: Open the app after installation. You will first be prompted to enter your Aadhaar number.
Step 3: Next, complete face authentication. Position your face within the on-screen camera frame and blink as instructed until the verification is successful.
Step 4: Once your identity is authenticated, the app will automatically take you to the home screen, and your Aadhaar app will be ready to use.