Aadhaar Photo Update: How to Change Aadhaar Card Photo
Aadhaar Photo Update 2026: How to Change Aadhaar Card Photo, Fee, Documents and Status
Aadhaar is one of the most important identity documents used in India. It is widely used for identity verification and for accessing many government, banking, telecom and private-sector services.
Over time, a person’s appearance can change significantly. This is especially common when Aadhaar was enrolled during childhood. Sometimes an old Aadhaar photograph may also be unclear, outdated or difficult to recognise.
If you want to change the photograph on your Aadhaar card, UIDAI provides a biometric update facility through Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centres.
The important point is that Aadhaar photo update is not the same as an ordinary online demographic update. A new photograph is part of Aadhaar biometric information, so you must visit an authorised Aadhaar centre for the photograph to be captured.
UIDAI’s current information confirms that photo, fingerprints and iris are biometric information, and biometric updates are performed at Aadhaar centres.
This complete guide explains Aadhaar Photo Update 2026, including the current fee, eligibility, required documents, step-by-step process, appointment, processing time, status tracking, children’s biometric updates, important precautions and frequently asked questions.
Quick Overview of Aadhaar Photo Update
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Service | Aadhaar Photo Update |
| Authority | UIDAI |
| Type of Update | Biometric Update |
| Can it be done online? | No |
| Where? | Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Centre |
| New photo | Captured at the centre |
| Printed photo required? | No |
| Current normal biometric update fee | ₹125 |
| Children 5–7 years | Mandatory biometric update can be free under applicable rules |
| Children 15–17 years | Mandatory biometric update can be free under applicable rules |
| Photo update limit | No limit specified by UIDAI |
| Processing | Normally 90% of update requests are completed within 30 days |
| Helpline | 1947 |
UIDAI’s current Aadhaar Seva Kendra information lists ₹125 for a biometric update in the normal applicable category. It also provides special free provisions for certain mandatory biometric updates of children.
What Is an Aadhaar Photo Update?
An Aadhaar photo update means replacing the photograph currently stored in your Aadhaar record with a newly captured photograph.
The photograph is treated as part of Aadhaar’s biometric information.
UIDAI lists the following as biometric information:
- Facial photograph
- Fingerprints
- Iris scans
Therefore, Aadhaar photo update is processed as a biometric update rather than as a simple demographic correction.
During the update, the authorised operator captures your photograph using the Aadhaar enrolment/update system.
You do not normally provide a printed passport-size photograph for the operator to simply scan and upload.
Can Aadhaar Photo Be Updated Online?
No, Aadhaar photo cannot currently be updated through the MyAadhaar online portal.
UIDAI’s online update facility includes services such as address update, while biometric information such as photograph, fingerprints and iris must be updated by visiting an Aadhaar centre.
This is because a biometric update requires the person to be physically present.
The current Aadhaar App FAQ also specifically states that:
Photo, fingerprints and iris details can only be updated by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar enrolment/update centre.
Therefore, websites or agents claiming that they can change your Aadhaar photograph completely online should be treated with caution.
Where Can You Change Your Aadhaar Photo?
You can request a photo/biometric update at an authorised:
- Aadhaar Enrolment Centre
- Aadhaar Update Centre
- Aadhaar Seva Kendra
UIDAI confirms that Aadhaar Seva Kendras provide biometric services including:
- Photo update
- Fingerprint update
- Iris update
- Demographic updates
- Document update
You can locate an Aadhaar centre through the official UIDAI/Bhuvan Aadhaar centre locator.
Official Aadhaar Centre Locator
Find an Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Centre
Who Can Update Their Aadhaar Photo?
An Aadhaar number holder can request a biometric update when the service is available at an authorised Aadhaar centre.
A photo update may be useful if:
- Your existing photograph is very old.
- Your photograph was taken during childhood.
- Your facial appearance has changed substantially.
- Your existing photograph is unclear.
- You want your Aadhaar biometric record to reflect your current appearance.
- You want to update your biometric information.
UIDAI specifically confirms that there is no limit applicable to Aadhaar picture updates. A person who wants to change the Aadhaar photograph can visit an Aadhaar centre and request a biometric update.
How Many Times Can Aadhaar Photo Be Changed?
UIDAI does not specify a fixed limit for Aadhaar photo updates.
This is an important correction to many articles available online.
UIDAI’s current FAQ says there is no limit applicable to picture updates.
However, every update request remains subject to the applicable UIDAI process, authentication and validation.
You should therefore update the photograph when there is a genuine reason rather than repeatedly changing it without need.
Aadhaar Photo Update Fee 2026
The fee information in older online articles can be confusing because Aadhaar charges have changed over time.
According to the current UIDAI Aadhaar Seva Kendra information, the applicable charge for a normal biometric update is ₹125. This biometric category includes the enrolled biometrics such as photograph, fingerprints and iris.
Current Fee Structure
| Type of biometric update | Current rule |
|---|---|
| Normal biometric update | ₹125 |
| Mandatory biometric update once between age 5–7 | Free |
| Mandatory biometric update once between age 15–17 | Free |
| Mandatory biometric update between 7–15 | Free until 30 September 2026, according to current UIDAI centre information |
The exact transaction category matters, so check the fee displayed at the authorised centre and on your acknowledgement receipt. UIDAI states that applicable charges are displayed at Aadhaar centres.
Important
Your original draft says that the fee is ₹100–₹125.
For a current 2026 article, it is better to clearly state the current normal biometric-update charge as ₹125, rather than presenting it as a range.
Is Aadhaar Photo Update Free for Children?
There are special rules for children’s mandatory biometric updates.
UIDAI currently provides free mandatory biometric updates in specified age windows.
The current information states:
- The mandatory biometric update once between 5 and 7 years is free.
- The mandatory biometric update once between 15 and 17 years is free.
- UIDAI’s current Aadhaar Seva Kendra information also states that the biometric update for children aged 7 to 15 years is free until 30 September 2026.
Parents and guardians should check the current UIDAI fee information at the time of the visit because these special provisions are age- and date-dependent.
What Documents Are Required for Aadhaar Photo Update?
For a straightforward biometric photo update, the key requirement is that the Aadhaar holder appears personally at the authorised centre.
Unlike an address or name correction, a new Proof of Address is not generally the basis for changing the photograph.
However, you should carry your Aadhaar number/Aadhaar details and any documents the centre may require for identification or a combined update request.
If you are also changing demographic information such as name or address during the same visit, appropriate supporting documents may be required.
UIDAI advises residents to carry original documents when documentary verification is required at an Aadhaar centre. The originals are returned after electronic copying and verification.
Do You Need to Carry a Passport-Size Photo?
No, you do not need to bring a printed passport-size photograph for a normal Aadhaar photo update.
The photograph is captured at the Aadhaar centre as part of the biometric update process.
This is one of the major differences between Aadhaar photo updating and some other identity-document applications.
The centre captures the photograph through the Aadhaar enrolment/update system.
Therefore, do not pay an agent to scan your old passport-size photograph and upload it as your Aadhaar photo.
Step-by-Step Process for Aadhaar Photo Update
Step 1: Find an Authorised Aadhaar Centre
First, locate an Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
Use the official UIDAI centre locator rather than an unknown website.
Official Aadhaar Centre Locator
Step 2: Book an Appointment if Available
For UIDAI-run Aadhaar Seva Kendras, online appointment facilities are available.
UIDAI states that its Aadhaar Seva Kendras follow an online appointment system for Aadhaar enrolment and updates.
Appointment availability can vary by centre.
If your selected centre provides appointment booking, booking in advance can help reduce waiting time.
Step 3: Visit the Centre Personally
Go to the selected centre on the appointment date, if applicable.
Carry:
- Aadhaar number/card or Aadhaar details
- Supporting documents if you are making other updates
- Parent/guardian where required for a child
- Appointment details, if applicable
Your physical presence is required for biometric capture.
Step 4: Request a Biometric Update
Tell the operator that you want to update your Aadhaar photograph.
The operator will select the relevant biometric update service.
If you also want to update fingerprints or iris information, you can ask about the applicable biometric update process.
UIDAI defines biometric information as including the photograph, fingerprints and iris.
Step 5: Complete Aadhaar Authentication
The operator will follow the required authentication process.
The update is associated with your Aadhaar number.
This helps UIDAI verify that the request is being made by the Aadhaar holder.
Step 6: Capture Your New Photograph
The operator will use the authorised Aadhaar equipment to capture your new photograph.
You should:
- Sit comfortably.
- Face the camera.
- Keep your face clearly visible.
- Follow the operator’s instructions.
- Avoid anything that unnecessarily covers your face.
- Remain still during image capture.
The photograph is captured at the centre rather than being supplied by the applicant as a printed image.
Step 7: Review the Transaction
Before completing the transaction, carefully check the information displayed by the operator.
If you are also updating other Aadhaar details, verify those details carefully.
This is particularly important if you are combining a biometric update with demographic changes.
Step 8: Pay the Applicable Fee
For a normal biometric update, the current listed charge is ₹125, subject to the applicable category and any free mandatory-update provision.
Always ask for an official receipt.
Do not pay additional unofficial charges to an agent.
UIDAI has specified official charges for Aadhaar services.
Step 9: Collect Your Acknowledgement Receipt
After submitting the update request, you should receive an acknowledgement.
The receipt contains the information required to track the update request.
UIDAI’s update process provides an Update Request Number (URN) for tracking update requests.
Keep this receipt safely until your Aadhaar update has been completed.
Step 10: Track Your Aadhaar Update
After submitting the request, use the official UIDAI status service to monitor its progress.
Official MyAadhaar Portal
UIDAI’s MyAadhaar platform provides a facility to check Aadhaar update status.
How Long Does Aadhaar Photo Update Take?
Aadhaar updates are not necessarily completed immediately.
UIDAI currently states that 90% of update requests are normally completed within 30 days.
Therefore, it is not correct to promise that every Aadhaar photograph will be updated within two days or even within one week.
The request is subject to UIDAI verification and validation.
UIDAI specifically states that submission of an update request does not guarantee that the requested information will automatically be updated. The request can be accepted or rejected after verification and validation.
Simple answer:
Most Aadhaar update requests are normally completed within 30 days, but individual processing can vary.
Can Aadhaar Photo Update Be Done Together With Other Updates?
Yes, depending on the applicable service and transaction rules, you may request biometric and demographic updates during the same visit.
For example, you may want to:
- Update your photograph.
- Update your mobile number.
- Correct your address.
- Update your email address.
However, the applicable fee depends on the type of transaction.
UIDAI’s current fee structure states that demographic updates performed at the same time as a biometric update are treated differently from a demographic update performed separately.
If you need multiple changes, tell the operator before the transaction is completed so that the correct services are recorded.
Aadhaar Photo Update for Children
Children’s Aadhaar records can change significantly as they grow.
For this reason, UIDAI has mandatory biometric-update requirements at specified ages.
When a child reaches the applicable age, biometric information including:
- Photograph
- Fingerprints
- Iris
is updated.
UIDAI currently provides free mandatory biometric updates within specified age windows.
Parents or guardians should ensure that children complete the mandatory biometric update when required.
Why Should You Update an Old Aadhaar Photograph?
An Aadhaar photograph may become outdated over many years.
For example, a person who enrolled at age 5 may look very different as a teenager or adult.
Updating the photograph can help keep the biometric record current.
Potential reasons include:
1. Childhood Photograph
A photograph taken when you were a child may no longer represent your current appearance.
2. Poor-Quality Photograph
An old photograph may be unclear or of poor quality.
3. Major Change in Appearance
Your appearance may change significantly over time.
4. Biometric Record Maintenance
Updating biometric information can help maintain current records.
5. Personal Preference
UIDAI allows photograph updates without imposing a fixed limit on the number of picture updates.
Does Aadhaar Photo Update Change Your Aadhaar Number?
No.
Updating your photograph does not mean that you receive a completely new Aadhaar number.
The update is made against your existing Aadhaar record.
The Aadhaar number remains associated with your identity record.
Can You Change Your Aadhaar Photo From Home?
No.
You cannot simply upload a selfie from your home and replace the Aadhaar photograph through MyAadhaar.
UIDAI currently requires biometric updates such as photo, fingerprints and iris to be performed at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar enrolment/update centre.
Can Aadhaar Photo Be Updated Through the Aadhaar App?
No.
The current Aadhaar App FAQ states that biometric information such as:
- Photo
- Fingerprints
- Iris
cannot currently be updated through the app.
You must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
The Aadhaar App currently supports certain services such as mobile-number and address updates, but biometric updates remain centre-based.
What Is the Difference Between Aadhaar Photo Update and Address Update?
This is an important distinction.
| Service | Type | Online? | Centre Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Address Update | Demographic | Yes | Yes |
| Name Update | Demographic | Centre-based under current service rules | Yes |
| Mobile Update | Demographic | App availability may apply; traditional online process does not support it | Yes |
| Photo Update | Biometric | No | Yes |
| Fingerprint Update | Biometric | No | Yes |
| Iris Update | Biometric | No | Yes |
| POI/POA Document Update | Document | Yes | Yes |
UIDAI currently lists address update as an online service, while photo, fingerprint and iris updates are centre-based biometric services.
What Happens If Aadhaar Photo Update Is Rejected?
Aadhaar update requests are subject to verification and validation.
Submitting a request does not automatically guarantee acceptance.
If an update is not processed:
- Check the status.
- Review the reason provided.
- Contact UIDAI if clarification is required.
- Visit an authorised centre again if instructed.
- Contact UIDAI through the official helpline if necessary.
UIDAI Helpline
1947
This is the official Aadhaar helpline.
How to Avoid Problems During Aadhaar Photo Update
Follow these simple tips:
Use an Authorised Centre
Do not use an unknown agent who claims to have special access.
Check the Fee
The current normal biometric update charge is ₹125. Check the official fee displayed at the centre.
Collect the Receipt
Never leave the centre without your acknowledgement/receipt.
Keep Your Update Number Safe
The update reference is useful for status tracking.
Do Not Share OTPs
Never share Aadhaar OTPs with strangers.
Check Other Updates Carefully
If you are changing your address, mobile number or other details at the same time, verify them before submission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Searching for an Online Photo Upload Option
There is currently no normal online Aadhaar photo replacement facility.
Mistake 2: Carrying Only a Passport Photo
A printed photograph is not a substitute for the live biometric photograph captured at the centre.
Mistake 3: Paying an Unofficial Agent
Use the official UIDAI service and pay only the applicable authorised charge.
Mistake 4: Losing the Acknowledgement
Keep your receipt until the update is completed.
Mistake 5: Expecting Immediate Update
UIDAI says 90% of update requests are normally completed within 30 days; processing is not guaranteed instantly.
Mistake 6: Ignoring Children’s Mandatory Biometric Update
Parents should check whether their child has reached the applicable age for mandatory biometric updating.
Aadhaar Photo Update: Important Checklist
Before leaving for the Aadhaar centre:
- Carry your Aadhaar number/card.
- Find an authorised Aadhaar centre.
- Book an appointment if available.
- Carry original supporting documents if you are making other updates.
- Request biometric/photo update.
- Follow the operator’s instructions.
- Check other information if you are making combined updates.
- Pay only the applicable official fee.
- Collect the acknowledgement receipt.
- Save your URN/update reference.
- Track the request through official UIDAI services.
Official UIDAI Links for Aadhaar Photo Update
UIDAI Official Website
MyAadhaar Portal
Aadhaar Centre Locator
UIDAI Enrolment & Update Information
UIDAI Enrolment and Update Services
UIDAI Aadhaar App
UIDAI Helpline
1947
Frequently Asked Questions About Aadhaar Photo Update
1. Can I change my Aadhaar photo online?
No. Photo is biometric information and must currently be updated by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment and Update Centre.
2. What is the Aadhaar photo update fee in 2026?
The current normal biometric update charge listed by UIDAI is ₹125. Special mandatory biometric-update rules apply to children in specified age groups.
3. Is Aadhaar photo update free for children?
Certain mandatory biometric updates are free, including specified updates between ages 5–7 and 15–17. UIDAI currently also lists a temporary free provision for applicable biometric updates between ages 7–15 until 30 September 2026.
4. Do I need a passport-size photograph?
No. The new photograph is captured at the authorised Aadhaar centre.
5. Can I use a selfie for Aadhaar photo update?
No. A normal selfie uploaded from home cannot replace the Aadhaar biometric photograph.
6. Can I change my Aadhaar photo more than once?
Yes. UIDAI currently states that there is no limit applicable to Aadhaar picture updates.
7. How long does Aadhaar photo update take?
UIDAI states that normally 90% of update requests are completed within 30 days.
8. Can I update my fingerprints and photo together?
Biometric information includes photograph, fingerprints and iris. Ask the authorised centre about the applicable biometric update service and fee.
9. Can I update my Aadhaar address at the same time?
You may request other applicable updates during the same visit. The fee depends on the transaction and current UIDAI rules.
10. Can Aadhaar photo be updated through the Aadhaar App?
No. The current UIDAI Aadhaar App FAQ says photo, fingerprint and iris updates require a visit to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar enrolment/update centre.
11. Do I need my registered mobile number?
A centre-based biometric update does not depend on the same online OTP process used for MyAadhaar online services. However, carry the information/documents required for the update and follow the centre’s authentication process.
12. Can a child update the Aadhaar photograph?
Yes. Children’s biometric information is updated at the applicable mandatory biometric-update ages, and the prescribed free provisions apply in specified age windows.
13. Does changing the photo change my Aadhaar number?
No. The photograph is updated within your existing Aadhaar record.
14. Can I update my Aadhaar photo at any Aadhaar centre?
UIDAI states that Aadhaar holders can visit an Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Centre for biometric updates. Check the centre’s available services before visiting.
Conclusion
Updating an Aadhaar photograph is a straightforward process, but it is different from an online address or document update.
Because the photograph is part of Aadhaar’s biometric information, you need to visit an authorised Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra. The photograph is captured at the centre, so you do not need to upload a selfie or submit a printed passport-size photograph as your new Aadhaar photo.
For 2026, the current UIDAI information lists the normal biometric-update charge as ₹125, while specified mandatory biometric updates for children have separate free provisions. UIDAI also states that there is no fixed limit on Aadhaar picture updates.
After submitting your request, keep the acknowledgement and update reference safely. UIDAI states that normally 90% of update requests are completed within 30 days, although individual requests can take different amounts of time because they are subject to verification and validation.
For safety, always use official UIDAI services, avoid unofficial agents and never share your Aadhaar OTP with anyone.
