Moving to a new city or a rented house often comes with a common headache: you need to update your Aadhaar address, but you don't have a gas bill, electricity bill, or rent agreement in your name yet. For years, this meant you were stuck. However, UIDAIprovides a unique solution called the Address Validation Letter. This facility allows you to use someone else’s address proof (like a friend, relative, or landlord) as your own, provided they give their formal consent.

In 2026, while many online services have been updated to the new Aadhaar app, the Address Validation Letter remains a reliable Physical-Digital bridge for those without documents. It works through a Secret Code sent via post to the verifier's address. Once you receive that code, you can update your Aadhaar from home. It’s a process based on trust and verification, ensuring that even if you are new to a place, your identity document can reflect your current residence.

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The 4-Stage Update Process (2026)

Updating your address via a validation letter is a structured process that involves you, your verifier, and the UIDAI.

Stage 1: Initiating the Request

Visit the myAadhaar portal (myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in).
Select Request Address Validation Letter.
Enter your Verifier’s Aadhaar Number. The verifier can be anyone who has a valid Aadhaarwith the address you want to move to.

Your verifier will receive an SMS with a link on their registered mobile number.
They must click the link and provide their consent via OTP.
Once they agree, you will receive a Service Request Number (SRN) on your phone.

Stage 3: Submitting the Request

Log in to the portal again using your SRN.
Preview the address (it will be the verifier's address) and click Submit.
UIDAI will now print a physical letter and send it to the verifier’s address via India Post.

Stage 4: Using the Secret Code

The letter (containing a Secret Code) usually reaches the verifier in 10 to 30 days.
Collect the code from your verifier and log in to the Aadhaar portal.
Select Update Address via Secret Code.
Enter the code and submit. Your address is updated!

Quick Summary of Rules

Feature

Requirement / Detail

Document Needed

None (Verifier's Aadhaar is enough).

Mobile Number

Must be linked for both you and the verifier.

Fee (2026)

₹50 (Standard update fee).

Time Taken

30 to 45 Days (Includes postal delivery).

Who can be a Verifier?

Family, Friend, Landlord, or Relative.

Things to Keep in Mind

Trust Factor: Only ask someone you know well to be your verifier, as the letter will be delivered to their home, and they must share the secret code with you.
One-Time Use: The secret code is valid only for a limited time. If you don't use it within the period mentioned in the letter, you will have to start the process again.
Postal Delays: Since the letter comes via Speed Post, ensure the verifier's address is clear and they are available to receive it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can my landlord refuse to be a verifier?

Yes. Being an address verifier is voluntary. If your landlord is uncomfortable, you can ask a friend or family member who lives in the same area.

What if I lose the secret code letter?

You will have to re-initiate the entire process from Stage 1. There is no way to resend the same code digitally for security reasons.

Is there any risk for the verifier?

No. The verifier is only confirming that you reside at that address. It does not give you any legal right over their property.

Can I use this for a new Aadhaar application?

No. This service is only for updating the address of an existing Aadhaar card holder.

Does the verifier need to visit an Aadhaar center?

No. The entire consent process for the verifier happens online via OTP.

Can I change the address slightly (like a house number) in the letter?

No. You will get the exact address that is mentioned in the verifier's Aadhaar. You cannot edit it.

Why is my SRN not working?

Ensure you are entering the 28-digit SRN correctly. If it still fails, the request might have expired because the verifier didn't give consent in time (usually 48 hours).

Is this service available in the new 2026 Aadhaar app?

As of February 2026, the initial request can be made via the app, but the final update using the secret code is best done on the myAadhaar portal for a better experience.

Can an NRI be an address verifier?

Only if they have an Indian Aadhaar card and a registered Indian mobile number to receive the consent OTP.

How will I get my updated Aadhaar card?

Once the update is successful, you can download the e-Aadhaar immediately. UIDAI does not automatically send a new physical letter; you can order a PVC cardseparately for ₹75.

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What is aadhaar address validation letter