Virtual ID (VID) – Unique Identification Authority of India – Uidai

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced a new feature to ensure increased security of data. This new layer of security is called Aadhar Virtual ID (VID). This new feature will enable authentication of transactions by providing authorised agencies with just enough data, such as name, address, and photograph, for e-KYC, instead of the Aadhaar number.

What is an Aadhar Virtual ID?

Now users can use their Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) in place of providing their Aadhaar number. The VID is a unique 16-digit code that is randomly assigned to the user. The VID gives limited KYC to the relevant agencies. UIDAI has made it mandatory for all Aadhar-authentication agencies to accept VID from applicants as of 1 June 2018.

How to generate Aadhaar Virtual ID

A user can generate their VID through the UIDAI portal.

Step 1: Visit the official website of UIDAI’s online portal.

Step 2: On the next page, select the ‘VID Generator’ option in the Aadhaar services tab.

Step 3: On the VID Generation page, enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and security code.

Step 4: Click on the ‘Send OTP’ button. An OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number.

Step 5: Enter OTP and click on the ‘Verify and Proceed’ button.

Step 6: You will receive a confirmation message via SMS on the registered number with the 16-digit Virtual ID.

How to generate Aadhaar Virtual ID via mAadhaar?

You can also generate an Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) using the mAadhaar app by following the below process:

• Download the mAadhaar app from Google Play Store or App Store on your mobile.
• Login to the mAadhaar app.
• Click on ‘Generate Virtual ID‘ under the ‘Aadhaar Services’ heading.
• Enter your Aadhaar Number, and the security captcha and click on the ‘Request OTP‘ button.
• Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click on ‘Generate VID’ to receive your VID.

How to generate Aadhaar Virtual ID through SMS?

You can send the SMS – ‘GVID (Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number)’ from your registered mobile number to 1947 (Aadhaar helpline number) for generating Virtual ID via SMS.

For example: Type “GVID 1234” on your registered mobile number and send it to 1947 to receive your VID through SMS.

Why do we need Aadhaar Virtual ID?

The UIDAI introduced the Aadhaar Virtual ID to heighten the security of the personal data of the users. It masks the details mentioned on their Aadhaar card with a digitally generated 16-digit VID. By using the VID, service providers will not be able to access the Aadhaar number of the user. Thereby, preventing the misuse of the user’s Aadhaar information.

Features of Aadhaar Virtual ID

• Aadhaar Virtual ID, a 16-digit number that is randomly generated, is used in place of Aadhaar number for authentification purposes.
• It is valid until a new VID is generated by the user.
• It is generated at the UIDAI portal.
• It provides limited KYC access to agencies.
• It was introduced to avoid the misuse of personal information.

Benefits of Aadhaar Virtual ID

The following are the benefits of generating Aadhaar VID:

• It prevents misuse of the vital details on the Aadhaar card.
• It reduces the burden on agencies of collecting the Aadhaar number of every individual and saves it for KYC purposes.
• It is revocable, thus chances of duplication are negligible.
• It can be used for easing out various services, such as:
  • Availing of government subsidies.
  • Applying for Tatkaal Passport.
  • Opening a bank account.
  • Opting for a new insurance policy.

FAQs on Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)

What is virtual ID in an Aadhaar card?

Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a 16-digit random number mapped with the Aadhaar number. VID can be used in place of the Aadhaar number whenever authentication or e-KYC services are performed. 

How to get a VID number in Aadhaar card?

You can get the Aadhaar VID number on the UIDAI website or through the mAadhaar app by entering your Aadhaar number and verifying the OTP received on your mobile phone.

Where is 16 digits Aadhaar virtual ID?

You need to generate the 16 digits Aadhaar virtual ID through the UIDAI website or through the mAadhaar app. Once your virtual ID is generated, you will receive the 16-digit virtual ID via SMS on your registered mobile number.

How can I get a virtual ID by SMS?

You can get a virtual ID by sending the SMS – ‘GVID (Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number)’ to 1947 from your registered mobile number. The virtual ID will be generated and sent to you via SMS.

Can I get a virtual ID without OTP?

Yes, you can get a virtual ID by sending the SMS – ‘GVID (Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number)’ to 1947. However, your mobile number must be registered with the Aadhaar number as you must send the SMS from your registered mobile number to get the Aadhaar virtual ID.

Can I generate Aadhaar Virtual ID without a mobile number?

No, you cannot generate the Aadhaar virtual ID without a registered mobile number. Virtual Id can only be generated by getting an OTP or sending an SMS from your registered mobile number. In case your mobile number is not registered or linked to your Aadhaar, you cannot generate an Aadhaar virtual ID.

Does the virtual ID have an expiration date?

No, the virtual ID does not have any expiry period. It will be valid till the time you generate a new VID.