Different Forms of Aadhaar and Their Features

Last Updated on October 30, 2025 by My Aadhaar Card

Different Forms of Aadhaar:- Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number provided by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is one of the most important identity proof and address proof documents in India.

This card is linked with an individual’s demographic and biometric details such as photo, fingerprints, and iris scans. All this data is safely stored in UIDAI’s Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR).

To make Aadhaar more user-friendly and accessible, UIDAI has launched different types of Aadhaar cards over time. This detailed guide will help you understand the main types of Aadhaar cards and their important features.

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Different Forms of Aadhaar and Their Features

All the details related to the different forms of Aadhaar Card and their features are provided below:

Aadhaar Letter

The Aadhaar Letter is the original physical, paper-based document sent by UIDAI to residents via ordinary post.

Key Features:

• Printable and laminated letter containing:
  • Aadhaar number
  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Address of the Aadhaar holder
• Digitally signed QR code with encrypted demographic information and photograph
• Printed on secure, tear-proof paper with latent image showing the Aadhaar logo (visible at an angle)
• Contains Issue Date and Print Date
• Can be used as offline identity proof (no biometric authentication required)
• Provided free of cost upon new Aadhaar enrollment or mandatory biometric update

e Aadhaar

eAadhaar is the electronic form of the Aadhaar letter provided in PDF format, downloadable from the UIDAI website.

Key Features:

• Password-protected digital Aadhaar valid for offline verification
  • Password: First 4 letters of name (in capital) + birth year (YYYY format)
• Contains digitally signed QR code with photograph and demographic details
• Displays Issue Date and Download Date
• Masked version available (shows only last 4 digits of Aadhaar number)
• Generated automatically with each Aadhaar update
• Can be downloaded anytime free of cost.

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mAadhaar

m Aadhaar is a mobile application that allows residents to carry their Aadhaar details on their smartphone.

Key Features:

• Available for Android and iOS devices
• Securely stores Aadhaar data on the mobile device after authentication
• Provides demographic details, photograph, and digitally signed QR code
• Offline functionality (no internet required for sharing once installed)
• Allows users to lock/unlock biometric authentication
• Enables selective sharing of QR code
• Automatically updated after each Aadhaar update

Aadhaar PVC Card

Launched in 2021, the PVC Aadhaar Card is the latest and most durable form of Aadhaar, similar to ATM/Debit cards.

Key Features:

• Can be ordered online at uidai.gov.in for Rs 50
• Printed and laminated, dispatched via speed post
• Contains digitally signed QR code with photograph and demographic details
• Multiple security features:
  • Hologram
  • Micro text
  • Ghost image
  • Issue date & print date
  • Guilloche pattern
• Smart card design for easy carrying and durability
• Convenient for storage in wallets, bags, etc.
• Facilitates easy offline verification and identification

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Comparison of Aadhaar Forms

Conclusion

The different types of Aadhaar – including the Aadhaar card letter, eAadhaar, mAadhaar app, and PVC Aadhaar card – are designed to meet the needs of every Indian citizen. These formats give users easy and flexible options for identity verification and address proof through both online and offline methods.

Key advantages of these Aadhaar formats include:

✅ Easy accessibility and user convenience
✅ Strong and long-lasting design (especially PVC Aadhaar card)
✅ Better security features to stop Aadhaar fraud
✅ Available for both digital and physical verification
✅ Flexible sharing while keeping personal data safe

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As UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) keeps improving the Aadhaar system, these different formats help make Aadhaar a universal digital identity across India. With these options, people can select the format that fits their lifestyle and need, while ensuring data privacy and security.

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By providing multiple forms of Aadhaar, UIDAI not only boosts its usability but also keeps up with new technology trends and changing user needs. This flexibility ensures that Aadhaar stays a trusted and powerful identity verification tool for both government schemes and private sector services.

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