Aadhaar Offline E-KYC: How To Generate Secure Paperless Verification Files Without Sharing Your ID
UIDAI's Offline e-KYC feature lets residents download a secure, digitally signed XML file via the Aadhaar App or the myAadhaar portal for paperless verification. Protected by a user-set share code, it shares essential demographics without exposing the full ID. Agencies that accept Offline e-KYC can validate the digital signature using the public key published by UIDAI.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is promoting the Offline e-KYC facility available through its Aadhaar App, allowing residents to download a secure, digitally signed file for identity verification without sharing their full Aadhaar number or biometrics in many cases. In a recent post, the official UIDAI account noted that users can download the Offline e-KYC file in a few taps and use it for paperless verification where accepted.
The feature supports voluntary, consent-based sharing of demographic details in a password-protected ZIP file containing an XML document. Service providers can verify the data offline using the file and a share code set by the user. Aadhaar App on iPhone: Easy Guide to Downloading and Setting Up UIDAI Services via Apple's App Store.
UIDAI highlights the Offline e-KYC feature on the Aadhaar App
Share your identity details using Offline eKYC on the Aadhaar App.
Download your Offline eKYC file in just a few taps and use it for smarter, paperless identity verification wherever applicable.
Download Aadhaar App now - https://t.co/xCUoUruQ24#Offline_eKYC #DigitalIdentity… pic.twitter.com/vm1Go57p34
— Aadhaar (@UIDAI) July 22, 2026
What Is the Offline e-KYC Feature?
Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC lets Aadhaar number holders generate a digitally signed XML file with select identity details. This replaces the need to submit photocopies of the Aadhaar letter for many verification processes. The file typically includes the holder’s name, address, photograph, gender, date or year of birth, a download reference number, and hashed versions of the registered mobile number and email (where available). The full 12-digit Aadhaar number is not exposed in the standard offline XML. The document is protected by a share code chosen by the user at the time of download; this code acts as the password for the ZIP file. UIDAI designed the service to be resident-driven and voluntary. Agencies that accept Offline e-KYC can validate the digital signature using the public key published by UIDAI.
How To Download the Offline E-KYC File via the Aadhaar App
UIDAI states that the Offline Aadhaar XML can be downloaded from the Aadhaar App. The app is available via the official download page at pehchaan.uidai.gov.in/app/download. Users should ensure they have the latest version of the official Aadhaar App installed from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and that their mobile number is linked to their Aadhaar. Registration or login typically involves the registered mobile number, OTP verification, and, in the case of the newer app, face authentication and a PIN in some flows.
Once logged in, locate the Offline e-KYC or Paperless Offline e-KYC option under services or Aadhaar services. Enter the required details (such as Aadhaar number or VID where prompted), set a share code, complete OTP verification if requested, and download or share the resulting ZIP file. Exact menu labels may vary slightly with app updates; UIDAI has described the process as requiring only a few taps.
Alternative Method via the myAadhaar Portal
The same file can also be generated on the web:
- Visit https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/offline-ekyc.
- Enter the Aadhaar number or Virtual ID (VID) and the on-screen security code.
- Request and enter the OTP sent to the registered mobile number (OTP is also available in the Aadhaar App).
- Create a share code that will serve as the ZIP password.
- Download the ZIP file containing the digitally signed XML.
Using the file for verification
Share the password-protected ZIP file and the share code with the service provider that accepts Offline e-KYC. The provider extracts the XML using the share code, verifies the digital signature against UIDAI’s public certificate, and uses the demographic details for KYC purposes. The process does not require the provider to collect or store the full Aadhaar number in standard offline flows. Residents are advised to generate a fresh file when needed, keep the share code confidential, and share it only with trusted entities. The service remains free for residents. How To Update Your Mobile Number in Aadhaar: Complete Offline Process Explained.
UIDAI introduced Paperless Offline e-KYC to enable electronic, privacy-preserving identity establishment while reducing reliance on physical documents. The facility has been available for several years via the resident portal and earlier versions of the mobile app. Recent official communications emphasise its availability and ease of use within the current Aadhaar App as part of broader efforts to support consent-based, offline-capable digital identity services. Residents seeking the latest interface details are directed to the official Aadhaar App download page and UIDAI’s myAadhaar portal. For technical validation by agencies, UIDAI publishes the relevant public key and guidance on its website.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 29, 2026 11:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
