The Aadhaar card, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), serves as the identification and the address proof of the Aadhaar card holder. Applying for an Aadhaar card is a straightforward process that involves visiting an Aadhaar enrollment centre and submitting your biometric details and necessary documents. After submitting your application, it may take approximately 3 months for the Aadhaar card to be delivered to your address by post.
However, there may be instances where you would not receive your Aadhar card at all. This can be attributed to various reasons such as backlog/technical issues in card printing, incorrect address details, transit mishaps, or errors in the delivery process.
This blog aims to guide you on what to do if you don’t receive your Aadhaar card and how to resolve the matter efficiently.
Check Aadhaar Card Status
Firstly, it is crucial to check whether your Aadhaar card has been generated or not. This can be done by visiting the official UIDAI website and entering the Enrolment ID, which a 28-digit number found on the acknowledgement slip received during the application process.
If the Aadhaar card status on the UIDAI portal indicates rejection, it becomes necessary to reapply for a new Aadhaar card.
Note that if you have misplaced or lost your Aadhaar card, you can simply order an Aadhaar PVC card online. In case of a loss of Aadhar card, you don’t have to apply for an Aadhaar again. Submitting multiple applications will result in rejection unless specifically advised by UIDAI.
Aadhaar Card Not Received – What to Do Next?
In case the status of the Aadhaar card is unclear, or it indicates that the card has been issued, but hasn’t been received, you can follow these steps:
- Contact the government helpline toll-free number: 1947
- Send queries via email to: [email protected].
- File a complaint for an Aadhaar PVC card not received on the official portal (https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/file-complaint) of the UIDAI website.
These options are available to address various issues such as if your Aadhaar card is dispatched but not received, if your Aadhaar card is not received after correction, or your updated Aadhaar card is not received, and in case your Aadhaar card hard copy is not received, etc.
You can also choose to download the Aadhaar card online or re-apply offline if the Aadhaar card is not received by post at the registered address. Let’s explore these options further.
Aadhaar Card Not Received? Obtain Online
If your Aadhaar status is shown as “generated,” you can download an e-Aadhaar copy either from the UIDAI portal or register on the mAadhaar mobile app. The e-Aadhaar is a digital copy of your Aadhaar card stored in the UIDAI database, serving all the purposes of the original document. It provides a very convenient solution when an Aadhaar card hard copy is not received or is not available.
Additionally, you can order the card online and also track PVC Aadhaar card’s delivery status.
Through UIDAI:
You have to follow these steps to download your e-Aadhaar card through the UIDAI website:
- Visit the myAadhaar section on UIDAI.
- Choose the option of either “Aadhaar Number,” “VID,” or “Enrollment ID.” If you don’t have these details, retrieve them from https://resident.uidai.gov.in.
- Fill in the required form with your full name, pin code, security text, and mobile number.
- Click on “Request OTP” to receive a One-Time Password on your registered mobile number or email address.
- Enter the OTP in the provided field.
- Once your OTP is verified, click on “Download Aadhaar”.
The downloaded e-Aadhaar will be in PDF format, and it will be password protected. You can open the document using the password, which will be a combination of the first four letters of your first name in uppercase and your birth year. After validating the digital signature of the e-Aadhaar document, you can proceed to print out the e-Aadhaar PDF for your convenience and use it as needed.
Through mAadhaar Mobile Application:
If your Aadhaar has been successfully generated, you can conveniently carry it on your mobile device using the mAadhaar mobile application. This secure app allows you to sync your Aadhaar details, including your personal information and biometrics, eliminating the need to carry a physical Aadhaar card at all times. The mAadhaar app is available for both Android and iOS devices, providing easy access to your Aadhaar information whenever you need it.
To carry your Aadhaar on your mobile device, download the mAadhaar app and register your Aadhaar using the Aadhaar number.
In case you have forgotten your Aadhaar number, you can easily get it through SMS:
- Visit the Retrieve Lost or Forgotten EID/UID page on UIDAI.
- Enter your name and the registered mobile number for the Aadhaar card.
- Enter the security captcha code displayed on the form.
- Click on “Send OTP”.
- Enter the OTP received and then click on “Submit”.
Your Aadhaar number will be sent to you via SMS after OTP verification. The Aadhaar number plays a crucial role as it needs to be linked to your bank account to access benefits from Government schemes and programs. Moreover, the Government of India has mandated that all banks accept e-Aadhaar as valid proof of identity and address.
Aadhaar Card Not Received – Obtain Offline
If you are uncomfortable with the online procedure or prefer the offline option, you can visit the nearest Aadhaar enrollment centre to obtain your Aadhaar card. Follow the steps given below:
- Find a nearby enrolment centre on UIDAI or contact the UIDAI helpline.
- At the enrollment centre, you will need to complete a physical form provided to you.
- Submit the filled-out form to the authorities at the enrollment centre.
- You will be required to undergo a verification process for both your personal information and biometrics.
- Once your details have been successfully verified, your Aadhaar card will be sent to your residential address.
If you haven’t received your Aadhaar card due to certain circumstances, like applying before April 1, 2012, or having your application rejected, you may need to reapply. Common reasons for application rejection include providing invalid or mismatched documents, submitting a duplicate application while the current one is pending, biometric mismatch, or technical errors.
If your application is rejected, you’ll be notified of the reason. You can verify your errors and re-apply with accurate documentation by following the same process of booking appointments, accurately completing registration, and submitting the necessary documentation.
Check List of Aadhaar Enrollment Centers in Top Cities
Conclusion
Aadhaar card is an essential identification document that provides a unique 12-digit number to each individual. If you haven’t received your Aadhaar card, it’s important to stay proactive and take the necessary steps. You can track the status of your Aadhaar card online and download the e-Aadhaar copy as an alternative. If you encounter any issues or have further concerns, contacting the UIDAI helpline can provide the necessary guidance and support.