What changed
RBI clarified that e-Aadhaar downloaded from UIDAI website is now an officially valid document for KYC at UCBs. Banks can accept it if they print the e-Aadhaar directly from UIDAI portal, use e-KYC, or confirm identity via simple authentication. Physical Aadhaar and e-KYC remain valid.
What it means for you
UCBs can now streamline account opening by accepting e-Aadhaar, reducing reliance on physical documents. This aligns with digital KYC norms and PMLA rules, but banks must ensure verification through UIDAI channels to prevent fraud. Non-compliance risks regulatory action.
What you must do
- Update your KYC policy to explicitly include e-Aadhaar as an officially valid document.
- Train staff on verifying e-Aadhaar via UIDAI portal printing, e-KYC, or simple authentication.
- Ensure all e-Aadhaar acceptances are documented and auditable for AML compliance.
- Communicate the change to branch managers and compliance teams immediately.
Who it affects
Primary (Urban) Cooperative Banks, Compliance officers at UCBs, Customers opening accounts at UCBs
Can we accept a customer's printed e-Aadhaar without verification?
No. If the customer brings a downloaded e-Aadhaar, you must either print it directly from UIDAI portal, use e-KYC, or confirm identity via simple authentication. Unverified copies are not valid.
Does this replace the physical Aadhaar card?
No. Physical Aadhaar cards and e-KYC remain valid. e-Aadhaar is an additional option, not a replacement.