What is a URN Number in Aadhaar? Must-Know Details for Changing Your Photo

New Delhi: The Aadhaar card is more than just an identification document today—it’s an essential part of daily life in India. Whether you're applying for a job, opening a bank account, or availing government schemes, Aadhaar is a must. However, one common issue many people face is dissatisfaction with the photograph printed on the Aadhaar card.

The blurry or outdated photo on the Aadhaar card often leads to inconvenience or even embarrassment. If you’re among those unhappy with how your Aadhaar photo looks, there’s good news—you can easily update it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to update your Aadhaar photo and the role of the URN number in this process.

📸 How to Change Your Photo on Aadhaar Card

Changing your Aadhaar photo is a simple offline process. Just follow the steps below:

Step-by-Step Process:

Visit the UIDAI Website:
Go to the official site and navigate to the Aadhaar Enrolment/Update section.

Download the Aadhaar Update Form:
Select the relevant form under the Aadhaar Correction/Update category and download it.

Print and Fill the Form:
Take a printout of the form and fill in the required details carefully.

Visit the Nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK):
Carry the filled form along with a valid identity proof to your nearest Aadhaar service center.

Biometric Verification and Photo Capture:
At the center, your biometrics (fingerprint and iris scan) will be verified, and a new photograph will be taken on the spot.

Pay the Photo Update Fee:
You’ll be required to pay a fee of Rs 100 + GST for the photo update service.

Receive the Acknowledgment Slip with URN:
After completing the process, you’ll receive a slip containing the URN (Update Request Number).

🔍 What Is a URN Number in Aadhaar?

The URN, or Update Request Number, is a 14-digit unique number provided after submitting any update request related to Aadhaar. In the case of a photo update, this number allows you to:

• Track the status of your photo update request

• Estimate when the new photo will be reflected in your Aadhaar records

• Follow up if there is a delay beyond the expected timeline

To check your Aadhaar update status, simply:

Visit:

Click on "Check Status Update"

Enter your URN number and Aadhaar number

⏳ How Long Does It Take to Update the Aadhaar Photo?

While the photo is captured instantly at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra, the entire update process may take up to 90 days for the new image to reflect in the UIDAI database and on your Aadhaar card.

📌 Final Thoughts

Whether your Aadhaar photo is outdated or unclear, you don’t have to live with it. By following the simple procedure and keeping your URN number safe, you can easily track and ensure your Aadhaar card reflects an accurate, updated picture.

This update is not just about appearance—it can make future biometric verifications smoother and improve your overall Aadhaar experience.