Ministry : UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION AUTHORITY OF INDIA (Not Applicable)

Part III-Section 4

Subject : Extra Ordinary

Overview: Aadhaar Authentication and Offline Verification Amendment Regulations, 2025

This Extraordinary Gazette of India notification, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), announces amendments to the Aadhaar (Authentication and Offline Verification) Regulations, 2021. The update refines the framework for offline Aadhaar verification, expands acceptable verification methods, and strengthens compliance and governance for entities seeking to use Aadhaar-based services offline.

Key Points

• New Definition – “Aadhaar Application”: Broadly defines authorized mobile and web applications (e.g., mAadhaar App, Aadhaar QR Scanner App, myAadhaar Portal) that enable offline verification services.
• Expanded Offline Verification Types: Lists five methods: QR code verification, Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC, Aadhaar Verifiable Credential verification, e-Aadhaar verification, offline paper-based verification, and other future methods notified by UIDAI.
• Aadhaar Verifiable Credential: Introduces digitally signed credentials containing limited Aadhaar details (last 4 digits, name, address, DOB, photo) for secure sharing with entities via apps.
• Offline Face Verification: Adds a new mode where live facial images are matched against the Aadhaar photo stored on the device for authentication.
• QR Code and Data Access: Mandates that UIDAI-supported apps and interfaces allow scanning QR codes and downloading e-Aadhaar or offline verification data.
• OVSE Registration Requirements: Formalizes registration for Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs), including lawful purpose, UIDAI approval, and fee structures.
• Compliance and Penalties: Details enforcement actions for non-compliance, misuse of Aadhaar facilities, or failure to cooperate with UIDAI audits, including suspension of access.
• Surrender and Closure: Outlines the process for OVSEs to surrender offline verification access, including data preservation, grievance redressal, and account settlement obligations.

Summary

This gazette notification strengthens India’s Aadhaar authentication ecosystem by modernizing offline verification standards, introducing verifiable digital credentials, and enabling secure face-based verification. It tightens regulatory oversight of entities using Aadhaar data, ensuring compliance and protecting user privacy. These amendments are expected to enhance interoperability, security, and accessibility of digital identity services across government and private sector applications.