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Downloading eAadhaar Online: A Complete 2026 Guide
eAadhaar is the official digital version of the Aadhaar card issued by UIDAI as a password-protected, digitally signed PDF. It contains the same photograph, demographic details and scannable QR code as the physical card. Unlike a photocopy or scan eAadhaar is an original document carrying UIDAI’s digital signature making it tamper-evident and legally equivalent to the printed card under the Aadhaar Act.
Table of Content
Eligibility for Download
eAadhaar may be downloaded by any individual whose Aadhaar has been generated provided a mobile number is registered with their Aadhaar. OTP-based verification via the registered mobile number is required to complete the download. Where no mobile number is registered the online download process is not available the number must first be registered at an enrolment centre.
Step-by-Step: Downloading eAadhaar via the myAadhaar Portal
- Access the myAadhaar portal at myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
- Under the Get Aadhaar section select Download Aadhaar
- Enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number and complete the captcha
- Select Send OTP and enter the code received on the registered mobile number
- To display only the last four digits of the Aadhaar number select Masked Aadhaar
- Select Verify and Download the PDF will be saved to the device’s Downloads folder
- Open the file and enter the applicable password to access the document
Downloading Using an Enrolment ID (EID)
Where the Aadhaar number is not available the 28-digit Enrolment ID (EID) found on the acknowledgement slip issued at the time of enrolment may be used as an alternative. On the Download Aadhaar page select the Enrolment ID option enter the EID exactly as printed complete the captcha and verify via OTP. The download process is identical from this point forward. OTP delivery to the registered mobile number remains a requirement.
Opening the Downloaded PDF
The PDF file is password-protected and requires a compatible PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat Reader to open.
Password format: The first four letters of the name as printed on the Aadhaar document in capitals followed by the four-digit birth year. For example an individual named Sameer born in 1990 would use SAME1990. Where the name comprises fewer than four letters the complete name is used for example Ria born in 1990 would use RIA1990.
The password is case-sensitive and remains consistent across all downloads. It cannot be reset or modified.
Some PDF readers may display a message indicating that the signature validity is unknown. This does not affect the document’s validity. To resolve this right-click the signature select Validate Signature and confirm trust for the UIDAI certificate. No attestation or additional verification is required.
Legal Validity of eAadhaar
Under the Aadhaar Act a downloaded eAadhaar carries the same legal standing as the physical Aadhaar card. UIDAI has confirmed this in an official memorandum. Banks telecom operators passport offices and government departments are required to accept eAadhaar whether as a PDF on a device or as a printed copy as valid proof of identity and address. The digital signature provides an additional layer of authenticity not present in a physical printout.
Troubleshooting
OTP not received: Confirm that the registered mobile number is active and within network coverage. Allow up to one minute before requesting a new OTP. Where OTPs consistently fail to arrive the mobile number may not be registered with Aadhaar registration or update must be completed at an enrolment centre.
PDF password not accepted: Verify that the first four letters are entered in uppercase and that only the birth year is used not the complete date of birth. Initials and full stops in the name count as characters. Where issues persist download a fresh copy over a stable connection and open it using Adobe Acrobat Reader.
eAadhaar vs. Physical Aadhaar Card
| Feature | eAadhaar | Physical Aadhaar |
| Format | Digitally signed PDF | Printed letter or PVC card |
| Availability | Instant download | Delivered by post |
| Cost | Free | Letter: free; PVC card: ₹50 |
| Security | Password-protected UIDAI-signed | Physical document |
| Best suited for | Online KYC digital submission backup | Offline in-person use |
Written By
Reviewed ByLast Updated: 2nd July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can eAadhaar be downloaded without a registered mobile number?
Online download is not available without a registered mobile number as OTP verification is mandatory. Individuals in this situation may visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra where biometric verification substitutes for OTP and request a printed copy for ₹30. A PVC card may also be ordered using an alternate mobile number for OTP delivery.
What is the password for the eAadhaar PDF?
The first four letters of the name as it appears on the Aadhaar document in capitals followed by the four-digit birth year for example RAVI1988. Where the name is fewer than four letters the complete name is used along with the birth year such as OM1992. The password is case-sensitive and remains the same for every download.
Is eAadhaar accepted as valid identity proof?
Yes. Under the Aadhaar Act a downloaded eAadhaar is legally equivalent to the physical card. No institution is permitted to refuse it solely on the basis that it is a digital document. The UIDAI digital signature confirms its authenticity the file should not be edited or modified as this would invalidate the signature.
How many times can eAadhaar be downloaded?
There is no limit on the number of downloads and no fee applies. Each download produces the same valid document. OTP verification via the registered mobile number is required for each download.
Can eAadhaar be downloaded without an OTP?
Not via the online portal or application. OTP or app-based authentication is required; the previous name-and-date-of-birth method has been discontinued. The only alternative is an in-person visit to an enrolment centre where biometric verification is accepted in place of OTP.
What is the difference between eAadhaar and the physical Aadhaar card?
There is no legal distinction both serve as equivalent proof of identity. The practical difference lies in format and delivery: eAadhaar is a digitally signed PDF available for immediate download while the physical card is a posted letter or PVC card for in-person use.
How is eAadhaar downloaded using the Enrolment ID?
On the Download Aadhaar page select the Enrolment ID option enter the 28-digit EID from the enrolment acknowledgement slip complete the captcha and verify via OTP. This method is applicable where the physical card has not yet been received provided the Aadhaar has been generated.
Is downloading eAadhaar free of charge?
Yes. Downloading via the myAadhaar portal or the Aadhaar application is free with no associated deadline. A fee of ₹30 applies where a centre prints the document and ₹50 (or ₹75 per certain UIDAI resources confirm on the payment screen) applies to PVC card orders.
