New Aadhaar App Simplifies Travel With Tap-and-Go ID Access

LUCKNOW In a move expected to make travel across India smoother and more secure, the central government on Tuesday unveiled a new Aadhaar mobile app that allows digital verification without the need for carrying physical ID cards or submitting photocopies.

Launched in New Delhi by Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the app aims to redefine identity verification, particularly at public points such as airports, railway stations, hotels, and even while checking into tourist destinations.

“New Aadhaar App, Face ID authentication via mobile app. No physical card, no photocopies,” the minister said in a video message shared on social media platform X, underscoring the convenience the app brings to frequent travellers and digital-first users.

Game-changer for Travellers

For those constantly on the move, especially solo backpackers, digital nomads, and business travellers, the new Aadhaar app eliminates a recurring concern—carrying and submitting physical identity proofs at multiple points during a journey.

The app introduces QR-based verification, where users can scan a code much like they do for a UPI payment. This means that Aadhaar verification at hotel receptions, airport check-ins, or while accessing tourism services, can now be completed in seconds, right from a mobile device.

“Now with just a tap, users can share only the necessary data, giving them complete control over their personal information,” Vaishnaw said.

The Aadhaar app’s Face ID authentication feature adds another layer of convenience and safety, allowing users to verify their identity without needing OTPs or physical interaction.

No More Paper Copies at Receptions or Checkpoints

It’s common for hotels, tour operators, and airlines to request physical copies of ID proof—often resulting in queues, paper wastage, or concerns over data misuse. With the new system, the need to hand over a photocopy of the Aadhaar card is removed altogether.

“No need to hand over Aadhaar photocopy at hotel receptions, shops or during travel,” the minister noted, referring to the app's secure sharing mechanism that ensures data is passed on only with the user’s consent.

This feature comes as a relief for both Indian and foreign travellers using Aadhaar as identity proof while exploring India. It especially benefits those taking last-minute trips or managing multi-city journeys where keeping documents handy becomes cumbersome.

Designed With Privacy at Its Core

Privacy has been a growing concern among digital users, and the app appears to address that with robust safeguards. Aadhaar details cannot be edited or tampered with, and the system allows users to decide which part of their data they want to share.

The app, which is currently in beta testing, is available for Android and iOS platforms. Once fully rolled out, it will likely be integrated with several public and private verification systems to ensure uniform digital onboarding.

Future Scope: Linking AI with Digital Travel Ecosystems

Vaishnaw also spoke about the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in digital public infrastructure (DPI), and invited feedback from stakeholders to explore how AI can further streamline processes.

Calling Aadhaar the “aadhaar” (foundation) of numerous government initiatives, he said AI integration could lead to more responsive and user-friendly digital services in sectors like tourism, travel safety, and mobility.

From dynamic hotel check-ins to faster immigration counters and airport boarding, AI-DPI fusion could lead to contactless travel experiences similar to global trends being adopted at smart airports and digital border crossings.

What This Means for the Indian Travel Landscape

For India’s growing population of travel lovers—who rely heavily on budget airlines, homestays, online bookings, and last-minute plans—the new Aadhaar app could serve as a single-point, government-backed digital identity that’s both portable and secure.

It also eases the travel experience in remote areas where photocopying shops are rare or internet connections unstable. A tap-and-show digital Aadhaar makes for a seamless journey from check-in to check-out—especially when language or documentation barriers arise.

Moreover, it aligns with the government's push to make India a digitally enabled, tourist-friendly nation—especially as global tourist footfalls and domestic travel numbers continue to rise post-pandemic.

Awadh360 Plus

If you're planning your next trip—be it to the Himalayan foothills, coastal towns, or metro hubs—consider downloading the new Aadhaar app. Not only does it lighten your wallet (by removing paper ID clutter), but it also ensures you have full control over your data at every point of verification.

The new app is expected to play a key role in India’s digital transformation journey, and for travel enthusiasts, it's another step toward hassle-free, smart travel.

Stay packed, but travel light. Your Aadhaar just went digital.