Changing Your Name in Aadhaar Card: The Role of Marriage Certificate and Domicile Certificate

Introduction

When you get married, you often choose to change your name. This process seems straightforward, but there are several steps and documents you need to follow to ensure your details are updated correctly. Specifically, for changing the name on your Aadhaar card, you must submit your marriage certificate and sometimes a domicile certificate to reflect the changes. This article aims to guide you through the process and highlight the roles of both the marriage certificate and the domicile certificate in this context.

What is an Aadhaar Card?

Overview

An Aadhaar card is a unique identity document in India issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It serves as a proof of identity and address and is used for various government and private sector services, including financial transactions and government subsidies.

Why Change Your Name?

Marrying often means changing your last name. You might opt to adopt your spouse's last name or continue to use your maiden name. In either case, it is important to update your Aadhaar card with the new name to reflect your current identity accurately.

Necessity of Documents for Name Change

Marriage Certificate

The marriage certificate is a crucial document that proves the legal union between you and your spouse. It is mandatory when you want to make changes to your personal details, such as your name, on your Aadhaar card. The marriage certificate must include both your old and new surnames to reflect your choice of name change.

Proof of Residence (Domicile Certificate)

While not always required, a domicile certificate is sometimes necessary to prove your tenure of residence. It serves as an additional document that verifies your official address and shows your name before marriage. This can be particularly important if you do not have a marriage certificate or if you need to establish that you have resided in a particular location for a significant period.

Process of Updating Your Name on Aadhaar Card

Step-by-Step Guide

Review Your Marriage Certificate: Ensure your marriage certificate includes both your old and new surnames. This is necessary for the name change process. Obtain Proof of Residence (If Needed): If requested, obtain a domicile certificate from your local authorities. This certificate will help establish your residency and name before marriage. Visit the UIDAI Kiosk: Visit a UIDAI kiosk or enroll for the Aadhaar Mobile App to start the name change process. Submit the Required Documents: At the kiosk, submit the marriage certificate and, if required, the domicile certificate along with other necessary documents. Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided at the kiosk to complete the process. This involves scanning your documents and providing biometric data. Verify Changes: Ensure you verify the changes before finalizing the process to avoid any errors.

Important Considerations

Timelines: The process may take some time, so plan accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. Accuracy: Make sure all the information on the documents you submit is accurate to avoid delays or rejections. Security: Keep your personal documents secure and do not provide them to untrusted parties.

Conclusion

Updating your name on your Aadhaar card after marriage is a straightforward process as long as you have the necessary documents. The marriage certificate is essential, and a domicile certificate may be required in certain situations. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your personal details are updated accurately and efficiently. Remember, maintaining the accuracy of your personal records is crucial for various benefits and services provided by the government and private sector.