The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has updated its Aadhaar regulations to introduce a new digital identity feature called Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC).
Announced on December 9, 2025, AVC is designed to strengthen offline identity verification while reducing exposure of sensitive personal data.
The amendments also update rules for entities that conduct Aadhaar verification without real-time access to UIDAI servers, formalising methods for offline verification.
What is Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC)?
AVC is a digitally signed document issued to Aadhaar holders, which can include:
Last 4 digits of the Aadhaar number
Demographic information such as name, address, gender, date of birth
Photograph of the Aadhaar holder
The key advantage of AVC is user control. Individuals can choose which details to share with an Offline Verification Seeking Entity (OVSE) during verification, without revealing their full Aadhaar number.
The amendments also introduce Offline Face Verification, allowing entities to match a live facial image with the Aadhaar photograph stored in the app, further enhancing security.
Additionally, the regulations now officially define ‘Aadhaar Application’ to cover UIDAI’s apps and portals, replacing older references to the mAadhaar app.
This prepares the way for UIDAI’s new mobile application, which aims to enable paperless electronic ID sharing and reduce reliance on physical Aadhaar cards.
OVSE Registration and Compliance Framework
The new rules set up a formal registration system for OVSEs—entities seeking to use offline Aadhaar verification or AVC.
Key points include:
OVSEs must apply to UIDAI for registration to use electronic Aadhaar verification.
UIDAI can verify applications, approve or reject registrations, and levy fees for registration and transactions.
Rejected applications must receive reasons within 15 days, and entities can seek reconsideration within 30 days.
OVSEs can surrender access if they no longer wish to use offline verification services.
UIDAI can now take action against OVSEs that misuse offline Aadhaar verification, fail to comply with procedures, or use verification for unlawful purposes.
Penalties may be imposed for violations, ensuring stronger accountability and data protection.
This move by UIDAI makes offline Aadhaar verification safer and more user-controlled, while enabling digital, paperless ID sharing across various services in India.
