e-Aadhaar is a secure, digitally signed PDF version of your Aadhaar card, legally valid as proof of identity and address worldwide. Available for free download from UIDAI’s official portal, it works on any device with a PDF reader, making it essential for NRIs, students abroad, or anyone needing quick access without a physical card.
What is e-Aadhaar?
e-Aadhaar is an electronic replica of the physical 12-digit Aadhaar card issued by UIDAI. It carries a digital signature from UIDAI, ensuring authenticity and tamper-proof status. Password-protected for security, it’s accepted by banks, government services, and international agencies just like the original—ideal for global users verifying identity remotely.
Prerequisites Before Downloading
Ensure these basics to avoid issues:
- Registered mobile number with UIDAI (for OTP verification).
- 12-digit Aadhaar number, 28-digit Enrollment ID (EID), or Virtual ID (VID).
- Access to UIDAI website (uidai.gov.in) or apps like mAadhaar/DigiLocker.
- Stable internet; use VPN if abroad for India-based servers.
Without a linked mobile, retrieve details via “Retrieve UID/EID” on the site.
Step-by-Step: Download e-Aadhaar from UIDAI Website
Follow this official process for instant download—takes under 2 minutes.
- Visit https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in or uidai.gov.in > “My Aadhaar” > “Download Aadhaar.”
- Enter Aadhaar number, EID, or VID; fill the captcha.
- Click “Send OTP”—enter the code received on your registered mobile.
- Verify OTP and hit “Download e-Aadhaar”—PDF saves automatically.
Password to Open: First 4 letters of your name (CAPS) + YYYY of birth (e.g., ABCD1990).
Pro Tip: Use incognito mode to avoid cache errors.
Alternative Download Methods Table
Compare easy options for worldwide access, including apps.
| Method | Steps Required | Best For | Device Support | Time Taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UIDAI Website | Aadhaar + OTP | Desktop/PC users | All browsers | 1-2 min |
| mAadhaar App | Scan QR or enter details + OTP | Mobile-first | Android/iOS | 30 sec |
| UMANG App | Login > Aadhaar Services | Multi-service access | Android/iOS | 1 min |
| DigiLocker | Aadhaar login > Issued Docs | Digital document hub | Web/App | 45 sec |
| Virtual ID (VID) | Generate VID first on myAadhaar | Privacy-focused | All | 2 min |
mAadhaar app auto-opens e-Aadhaar without passwords for enrolled users.
How to Use e-Aadhaar After Download
Once downloaded, unlock and leverage it effectively.
- Open PDF: Enter password (e.g., JOHN1985); use Adobe Reader for best view.
- Print: Select “Actual size” to match physical card dimensions (A4).
- Share Securely: Email as password-protected attachment or upload to cloud.
- Verify Online: Use UIDAI’s QR scanner or services like e-KYC.
- Offline Use: Laminated print works for PAN, passports, visas worldwide.
For video calls (e.g., US banks), share screen with zoomed PDF.
Retrieve Lost Aadhaar Details First
Forgot number? Quick recovery steps.
- Go to uidai.gov.in > “My Aadhaar” > “Retrieve UID/EID.”
- Enter name, mobile/email, DOB; submit captcha.
- Verify OTP sent to mobile—get instant SMS with Aadhaar/EID.
- Proceed to download as above.
This free tool works globally if mobile is registered.
How-To: Troubleshoot Common Download Issues
Resolve glitches fast with these fixes.
- OTP Not Received: Check number linkage at enrollment center; wait 5 min or retry.
- Invalid Captcha: Refresh page; use Chrome/Firefox (avoid mobile browsers).
- Download Fails: Clear cache/cookies; try VPN or different network.
- Password Wrong: Confirm name spelling from original enrollment (no middle names).
- Blocked Abroad: Use India VPN or DigiLocker (government-approved).
Reset mobile linkage via 1947 helpline if needed.
Security and Legality Worldwide
e-Aadhaar uses 2048-bit digital signatures, valid under IT Act 2000. Globally accepted for visas (US/UK), banking (HSBC/Standard Chartered), and remote jobs. Never share unprotected PDFs—risk phishing. UIDAI confirms masked versions hide full number for casual use.
Advanced Tips for NRIs and Global Users
- Auto-Backup: Link to DigiLocker for lifelong cloud storage.
- QR Code Scan: Apps like mAadhaar fetch details instantly.
- Update Details: myAadhaar portal for address/mobile changes.
- Batch Download: Family heads can retrieve kids’ EID too.
- Offline PDF: Convert to image for WhatsApp verification.
Pair with Aadhaar Paperless Offline for non-smartphone access.
Feature Comparison: e-Aadhaar vs Physical Card
| Aspect | e-Aadhaar | Physical Aadhaar |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | ₹50 issuance |
| Validity | Lifetime (updates reflect) | Lifetime |
| Portability | Email/cloud anywhere | Physical carry |
| Security | Password + digital signature | Lamination advised |
| Updates | Auto-syncs changes | Reprint needed |
| Global Use | PDFs accepted everywhere | Scans often required |
e-Aadhaar wins for remote/digital verification.
Performance and Compatibility
PDFs are under 500KB, opening on Windows/Mac/Android/iOS. Compatible with Google Drive, Dropbox. 2026 updates include better QR for faster scans. No data limits—millions download daily without issues.
FAQs
What if my mobile isn’t linked to Aadhaar?
Visit Aadhaar center with POI/PoA docs to link; use EID temporarily.
Is e-Aadhaar valid for international banks?
Yes, with password; print signed declaration if needed.
How to generate Virtual ID for privacy?
myAadhaar > VID > Set validity (e.g., 24 hrs); use instead of full number.
Can I download without internet forever?
No, but save PDF offline post-download.
Difference between e-Aadhaar and masked Aadhaar?
Masked hides last 4 digits for casual sharing.
App crashes during download?
Update mAadhaar/UMANG; fallback to website.
Final How-To: Link Mobile for Seamless Access
- Login myAadhaar.uidai.gov.in with Aadhaar + OTP.
- “Update Contact” > Mobile > Proceed.
- Enter new number > Verify via enrollment center OTP.
- Instant—future downloads OTP-enabled.
