Jazmin Li
The use of digital identity documents has become increasingly prevalent, and many people are now opting to use soft copies of their ID cards instead of carrying physical documents. In India, passengers at airports are allowed to show their Aadhar card, PAN card, or driving license from their digital locker as a valid form of identity proof. However, there have been instances where individuals have been denied entry at airport security for presenting a soft copy of their ID card, as security personnel have requested a hard copy of the ID card instead. This has caused some confusion, as official sources state that soft copies of ID cards are accepted as long as they are presented through government-approved apps, such as DigiLocker or mPower.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a soft copy of the Aadhar card accepted at airports? | Soft copies of the Aadhar card are accepted at airports, but only on government-approved apps, including DigiLocker, mPower, and the UIDAI app. |
| Are there other options if someone does not have a hard copy? | Yes, any other government ID card will do. Some airports also accept digital copies of driving licenses and PAN cards. |
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What You'll Learn
Soft copy of an Aadhar card may be accepted at some airports
It seems that soft copies of Aadhar cards are accepted at some airports in India. However, this may depend on the specific airport and its security protocols. According to the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), passengers can use their DigiLocker to show their Aadhaar card as a valid identity proof when departing from an airport. This means that individuals can present their Aadhaar card from the 'Issued Documents' section by logging into the DigiLocker app.
It is important to note that some airports may still require a physical copy of your Aadhar card. Additionally, the CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) has stated that, as per the circular number AVSEC order 15/2017, a hard copy of a photo ID proof must be displayed to security personnel at airports. If a passenger does not have a hard copy, they can present a soft copy of their Aadhar card on government-approved apps, including DigiLocker and mPower.
It is always a good idea to carry a physical copy of your Aadhar card or any other valid government-issued ID card when travelling, as it may be required for identification purposes. However, if you forget your physical Aadhar card, a digital copy may be accepted at some airports in India, as long as it is presented through the appropriate government-approved apps.
It is worth noting that some individuals have reported being allowed to pass through airport security without presenting any physical ID at all, particularly at airports that are digiyatra-enabled. Additionally, any other valid government ID with a photo may be sufficient for airport security in India. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to carry a valid form of identification when travelling to avoid any potential delays or issues.
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Government-approved apps like DigiLocker and mPower are valid
In 2018, the Indian government issued an advisory asking all states to accept documents in electronic or digital form if presented using government-approved apps like DigiLocker and mParivahan. This means that you can keep your Aadhaar, PAN card, and driving license, among other documents, in the DigiLocker app, and these will be treated as valid identity proof at airports. In fact, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has confirmed that documents presented via the DigiLocker application will be accepted as valid ID documents at airports and for security control of airline passengers.
DigiLocker is an Aadhaar-based application that is being used by many citizens. However, the number of those unaware of its existence is far higher. While top administrators are educated about the application and how digital copies fetched by the application from issuing authorities can be considered valid, officials on the ground seem to be unaware. This has led to confusion among users about what is a valid document and what is merely stored by them on DigiLocker.
To address this, the government needs to educate both the general public and implementing authorities about how the locker operates. Additionally, necessary amendments need to be made in the law to make documents in digital form valid. Despite these challenges, the acceptance of DigiLocker by the Civil Aviation Authority is a significant step towards a paperless economy, where people can carry their documents with ease and without confusion regarding their validity.
It is worth noting that while DigiLocker is a convenient option, there have been instances where users have faced issues unlocking their accounts or accessing their documents. In such cases, having a physical copy of your Aadhaar card or other accepted forms of identification, such as a driving license, is advisable.
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A soft copy of the Aadhar card is accepted on the UIDAI app
The Aadhaar card is a significant identification document issued by the Government of India (UIDAI). It consists of a unique 12-digit number that verifies the holder's identity as an Indian citizen. According to the Aadhaar Act, the e-Aadhaar holds the same validity as the physical Aadhaar card for all purposes. This means that a soft copy of the Aadhaar card is accepted as a valid ID proof.
The mAadhaar app, developed by the UIDAI, allows users to securely store and access their Aadhaar card digitally. The app can be used anywhere within India and at any time, making it a convenient option for those who may have forgotten their physical Aadhaar card or prefer a digital alternative. The app also offers a range of services, including the ability to download Aadhaar via DigiLocker, eliminating the need for carrying physical copies.
To use the mAadhaar app, individuals must first install it on their smartphone, which is available on both Android and iOS platforms. Users then register using their registered mobile number and a one-time password (OTP) sent to their device. After registration, users can access their Aadhaar card by entering their Aadhaar number and the OTP. The e-Aadhaar will be downloaded in PDF format and is password-protected for security.
It is important to note that while the mAadhaar app is a convenient and valid option, some airports may still prefer physical documentation. As such, individuals can also download their Aadhaar card from the UIDAI website and print it out. Additionally, other forms of government-issued identification, such as a driving license, may also be accepted at airport security.
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A laminated printout of the downloaded card is also allowed
In India, it is mandatory to provide a valid photo ID when entering an airport. While a physical copy of the Aadhar card is the most common form of identification, there are instances where individuals may forget or misplace their card. In such cases, a digital copy of the Aadhar card can be presented as an alternative form of identification.
While a soft copy of the Aadhar card displayed on a mobile device may not always be accepted, there are specific circumstances under which it is permitted. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued an order stating that a soft copy of the Aadhar card presented through government-approved apps, including DigiLocker, mPower, and the UIDAI app, is considered valid. This provides travellers with a convenient option when they do not have the physical card on hand.
However, it is important to note that not all airports or security personnel may uniformly interpret and enforce these guidelines. In some instances, security officers may insist on a hard copy of the Aadhar card, creating tension and uncertainty for travellers, as evidenced by an incident at an airport in Bengaluru.
To avoid any potential issues, some individuals opt for a laminated printout of their downloaded Aadhar card. This approach combines the convenience of having a digital copy with the assurance of meeting the requirements for a physical ID. By printing out their Aadhar card and laminating it, travellers can be confident that they have a durable and readily acceptable form of identification when passing through airport security.
Lamination ensures the printout remains in good condition and can be easily presented whenever needed. Additionally, carrying a laminated printout eliminates the worry of misplacing the original Aadhar card, providing peace of mind to travellers. This approach has proven successful for individuals who have shared their experiences online, reporting that they have faced no issues when presenting a laminated printout at airports across the country.
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Any other government ID card will be accepted at the airport
It is essential to carry valid proof of identity when travelling by air in India. While the Aadhar card is one of the accepted identity documents, other government-issued ID cards are also accepted at the airport.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued a list of ten identity documents that can be used to gain entry to airport terminals and for checking in. These include:
- Passport
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Driving Licence
- Service ID
- Student ID card
- Passbook of an account in a nationalised bank with a photo
- Pension card or pension documents with a photo
- Disability ID card or handicapped medical certificate
- Identity certificate issued by a Group A gazetted officer of central/state government, with the passenger's photo duly attested on official letterhead
It is important to note that the name on your e-ticket must match the name on your proof of identity for entry, check-in, and boarding. Carrying physical documents is not mandatory, as proof of identity and travel documents stored in DigiLocker are also accepted at Indian airports. Additionally, if you are flying internationally, you will need to carry a valid passport, visa, entry permit, and necessary health certificates.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can show a soft copy of your Aadhar Card at the airport, but only on government-approved apps such as DigiLocker, mPower, and the UIDAI app. Standalone images saved by the user are not considered valid proof.
In this case, you will need to present a hard copy of your Aadhar Card or any other valid government-issued ID card.
Other valid forms of identification include a PAN card, a driving license, or any other government ID card.
