The Aadhaar Card, often safeguarded with Aadhaar eKYC, is a highly recognized Identity Document endorsed by the Government of India, making it universally valid for all legal transactions.
The Government of India’s introduction of the Aadhaar Card has sparked debate since its inception. While some are concerned about data privacy, the varied uses of this unique identity proof are undeniable.
Understanding Aadhaar eKYC
e-KYC is similar to traditional KYC, as it requires verification of your identity with KYC documents; however, the difference lies in it being a digital procedure.
Aadhaar-based e-KYC is a paperless identity verification process conducted with consent. It involves confirming identity through biometric and demographic data from the UIDAI database, which was gathered during Aadhaar registration.
Since UIDAI has already validated this data, it simplifies the process by eliminating the need for extensive documentation and verification. Moreover, Aadhaar’s status as a comprehensive record removes the requirement for multiple documents like ID proof, address proof, and age proof.
Types of Aadhaar eKYC
Aadhaar-based e-KYC can be categorized into two types:
- Biometric-based: For this, you need to provide your 12-digit Aadhaar number along with biometrics such as fingerprints or an iris scan. If you are interested in investment, the relevant authority at the fund house will complete the verification process using this method.
- OTP-based: In this method, you input your Aadhaar number, and an OTP is sent to your registered mobile number to complete the transaction.
Difference Between Aadhaar eKYC and Aadhaar Offline KYC
Customers may confuse Aadhaar e-KYC with Aadhaar authentication, as both processes appear similar from a user perspective. However, the functioning of these processes differs significantly.
Aadhaar authentication is a verification process that involves storing all biometric and demographic details on your Aadhaar in the Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR). This repository cross-checks the accuracy of the provided data against what is stored. Essentially, service providers need access to your demographic data, which can make the authentication process complex.
In contrast, the Aadhaar e-KYC process allows the service provider to immediately access and verify your personal information from the UIDAI database to help authenticate your identity.
e-KYC using Aadhaar is a faster and more streamlined method. Here’s a detailed explanation of the entire process.
How to Complete Aadhaar eKYC Online?
You can complete the Aadhaar eKYC process both online and offline, both of which are paperless methods.
Here’s a detailed guide to completing Aadhaar e-KYC online:
1) Biometric Authentication
Customers opting for Aadhaar e-KYC verification via biometrics should follow these steps:
Step 1: Provide your Aadhaar card to the service provider. They will record your Aadhaar number (UID).
Step 2: Your fingerprint or retinal scan will be taken using a biometric scanner.
Step 3: The biometric data is then sent to UIDAI, which compares it with the existing records in its database.
Step 4: Once the match is successful, your identity is verified.
After this verification, UIDAI grants the service provider access to your personal information, including your date of birth, address, and photo.
UIDAI also allows the provider to save a soft copy of this data in their servers for future access.
2) OTP Authentication
For OTP-based Aadhaar e-KYC, follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Show your Aadhaar card to the service provider.
Step 2: UIDAI will send an OTP to your registered mobile number.
Step 3: Enter the OTP into the device provided by the service provider.
Afterward, UIDAI provides the required information to the provider through the biometric verification procedure.
How to Check Aadhaar Card eKYC Status?
For those using financial services, KYC compliance is mandatory. If you're unsure about your KYC status, follow these steps to check:
Step 1: Visit any KYC Registration Agency (KRA) website.
Step 2: Enter your Permanent Account Number (PAN).
This will quickly show whether you’re KYC compliant. If not, you can complete the process through Aadhaar-based biometrics.