The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has updated its Aadhaar regulations to introduce a new digital identity option called Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC).
The move aims to make offline Aadhaar verification safer while limiting the sharing of personal data.
The amendments to the Aadhaar (Authentication and Offline Verification) Regulations, 2021 were notified on December 9, 2025, and uploaded on the UIDAI website.
They also update rules for entities verifying Aadhaar without real-time access to UIDAI servers.
What is Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC)?
AVC is a digitally signed document issued by UIDAI to an Aadhaar holder. It may include:
Last 4 digits of Aadhaar number
Demographic data like name, address, gender, date of birth
Aadhaar photograph
The key feature is user control over shared data.
Users can decide exactly which details to share during offline verification with an OVSE (Offline Verification Seeking Entity).
Additionally, the amendments introduce Offline Face Verification, allowing verification by matching a live facial image with the Aadhaar photo stored in the app.
The new regulations also formally define ‘Aadhaar Application’, replacing older references to ‘mAadhaar’, supporting UIDAI’s upcoming app for paperless electronic ID sharing and reducing dependence on physical Aadhaar cards.
New Framework for OVSEs
The amendments establish a formal registration process for OVSEs.
Any entity wishing to conduct Aadhaar paperless offline e-KYC or AVC verification must apply for registration with UIDAI.
Key points of the OVSE framework include:
UIDAI can verify applications, approve or reject them, and levy registration or transaction fees
Rejected applicants will be informed within 15 days and can request reconsideration within 30 days
OVSEs can surrender access to offline verification services if needed
UIDAI can penalize entities that misuse offline Aadhaar verification, fail to follow procedures, or withhold required information
According to UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar, the goal is to allow secure electronic verification, moving away from physical copies that are often misused or improperly stored.
