In a move aimed at encouraging more Aadhaar users to keep their contact details updated, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that Aadhaar holders will be able to update their email addresses free of cost through the Aadhaar mobile application from July 1, 2026. The decision temporarily waives the existing ₹75 fee and is expected to benefit millions of users who wish to add or update their email IDs linked to Aadhaar.
The initiative is part of UIDAI’s broader effort to improve digital communication and ensure that Aadhaar holders receive important notifications and updates in a timely manner.
What Is Changing From July 1?
Currently, users are required to pay ₹75 to update their email address through Aadhaar services. However, UIDAI has decided to waive this charge for a period of six months, allowing users to update their email IDs without any fee. The waiver will be effective from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.
The free update facility will be available exclusively through the Aadhaar mobile application. Users opting for other methods may still be subject to applicable charges under existing UIDAI rules.
Why Linking an Email ID Matters
An email address linked to Aadhaar can serve as an additional communication channel for receiving important notifications related to Aadhaar authentication, updates, and other services. It also provides a backup method of communication if a registered mobile number becomes unavailable or changes in the future.
As digital services continue to expand across banking, government schemes, and online verification systems, maintaining updated contact information has become increasingly important for seamless access to services.
How Users Can Update Their Email ID
The process will be carried out through the official Aadhaar mobile application developed by UIDAI. The app, which is available for Android and iOS devices, already offers several Aadhaar-related services including address updates, biometric lock and unlock, authentication history, e-Aadhaar downloads, and request tracking.
Users will need to complete identity verification and onboarding requirements within the application before initiating the email update process. UIDAI has designed the app to provide a secure and convenient way to manage Aadhaar-related services digitally.
Part of a Larger Digital Push
The announcement reflects UIDAI’s ongoing efforts to encourage greater use of digital self-service channels. By removing the fee temporarily, the authority hopes to motivate more Aadhaar holders to update their records and improve the accuracy of contact information associated with Aadhaar accounts.
Accurate contact information helps ensure smoother authentication processes and reduces the chances of missing important alerts related to Aadhaar services.
What Happens After December 31?
The fee waiver is currently scheduled to remain in effect only until December 31, 2026. After the six-month period ends, UIDAI may review the initiative and decide whether to extend the waiver or restore the existing ₹75 charge for email address updates.
For users who have not yet linked an email ID with Aadhaar or wish to update an outdated email address, the upcoming six-month window offers an opportunity to do so without any additional cost.
Summary
UIDAI has announced that Aadhaar holders can update their email IDs free of charge through the Aadhaar mobile app from July 1 to December 31, 2026. The move waives the existing ₹75 fee and aims to encourage users to keep their contact information updated. Linked email addresses help users receive important Aadhaar-related notifications and improve access to digital services.
