Aadhaar Update Taking Too Long — How to Resolve Pending Status
If your Aadhaar update is stuck in “Pending”, “Verification in Progress”, or hasn't moved for days or weeks, you’re not the only one. Aadhaar updates often slow down because of biometric mismatches, document issues, backlog at UIDAI, or address verification problems.
This guide breaks down exactly why updates get delayed and gives you clear steps to fix each type of issue — whether you applied online (mAadhaar / UIDAI portal) or offline (Aadhaar Seva Kendra).
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Visit the UIDAI Update Status page. Enter your Update Request Number (URN) or Service Request Number (SRN) exactly as received by SMS.
- Check whether your update was Online or Offline. Online updates behave differently from Seva Kendra updates.
- Match the status message with the meaning list below. This tells you the exact cause of the delay.
- If it’s an address update, verify whether the verifier has approved it. Many delays happen because the landlord/family member didn’t approve SMS/portal link.
- Re-submit the update request if allowed. If the portal shows “Rejected”, correct the issue and reapply immediately.
Required Documents
- Update Request Number (URN) or SRN
- Proof of Address (for address changes)
- Original Aadhaar card
- Registered mobile number (mandatory for all online updates)
- Biometric verification if required for high-security changes
Fees (If Applicable)
Online Aadhaar updates cost ₹50 per update. Offline updates at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra also cost ₹50 for any demographic update. Biometric updates typically cost ₹100.
Status Meaning Explained
- In Progress: UIDAI is verifying documents and data.
- Pending for Approval: The address verifier hasn't approved your request yet.
- Forwarded for Manual Review: Requires a human officer to recheck your documents.
- Awaiting Biometric Confirmation: You must visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
- Successful: Your update has been approved and is live.
- Rejected: UIDAI found mismatched documents or invalid proof — reapply.
Common Reasons for Delays
- Wrong or invalid address proof
- Address verifier not approving the request
- Document not readable or cropped
- Biometric mismatch requiring manual review
- High volume of updates during certain months
- Failure of the online eKYC verification
- Incomplete or unclear supporting documents
Solutions for Each Problem
- Contact your verifier immediately. For address updates, make sure the verifier checks SMS/UIDAI link and approves it quickly.
- Re-upload clear documents. Scan or click a photo in daylight; ensure the entire document is visible.
- Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra for biometric issues. If your update requires biometric confirmation, online fixes will not help.
- If “Manual Review” appears, wait 3–7 days. UIDAI officers manually inspect your documents and mismatches.
- For rejected cases, apply again immediately. Correct the exact issue pointed out in the rejection message.
- Check your Aadhaar PVC/eAadhaar after approval. Download the new version to confirm details updated correctly.
Offline Alternatives
If the online update is stuck for too long or repeatedly rejected, the fastest fix is visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra. Officers can see backend errors instantly and guide you on the exact correction needed.
- Carry original documents
- Ensure your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar
- Biometrics will be updated on the spot if needed
How to Escalate Complaints
- UIDAI Helpline: 1947 — provide URN/SRN and registered mobile.
- Email: help@uidai.gov.in — attach your URN screenshot and document copies.
- Aadhaar Seva Kendra escalation: Ask the officer to note your case and check backend logs.
- File a complaint: Use the UIDAI grievance system for long-pending cases.
- Reapply after rejection: Always correct the document or mismatch before submitting again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does Aadhaar update take?
Usually 2–7 days, but manual reviews can take 15–30 days. - Why is my Aadhaar update still pending?
Document mismatch, verifier not approving, or biometric issues. - Can I cancel an Aadhaar update request?
No, but you can apply again if it gets rejected. - How do I speed up the update?
Use correct documents, ensure verifier approval, or visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra. - My update is stuck for 20+ days — what to do?
Contact UIDAI 1947 or visit a Seva Kendra for manual inspection. - Do I need biometrics for every update?
No — only certain demographic or suspicious updates require biometrics. - What if my document is rejected?
Reapply with a fresh, clear scan/photo. - My verifier didn’t get SMS.
Ask them to check UIDAI link on email or retry the request. - Can I update Aadhaar without a mobile number linked?
No — linking mobile is mandatory for online updates. - Is Aadhaar update free?
No, each update costs ₹50.