How To Change The Address On Your Voter ID Online And Offline Without Visiting Government Offices

An updated Voter ID is not only essential for participating in elections at the correct polling station but also serves as an important identity document for various government-related services. Keeping the address current helps ensure electoral records remain accurate and reduces the chances of administrative issues during future elections.

When Should You Apply For An Address Update?

Anyone who has changed their place of residence should apply for a Voter ID address change . Even if the move is within the same Assembly constituency, the address should be updated to reflect the new residence.

The need becomes even more significant when a voter relocates to another Assembly constituency or district, as this affects the electoral roll and polling station allocation.

Documents You'll Need Before Applying

Applicants must submit valid proof of their new address while applying. Accepted documents include an Aadhaar card carrying the updated address, electricity, water or LPG bills issued within the previous year, a bank or post office passbook with a photograph and the new address, a registered rent agreement, property registration papers, an Indian passport or any other document accepted by the Election Commission.

For online applications, address proof should be uploaded in JPEG or PDF format. The details entered in the application must exactly match the information provided in the supporting documents.

Applying Online Through Form 8

The online process begins on the Voters' Service Portal , where users can either create a new account using their mobile number or log in with their existing credentials and OTP verification.

After signing in, applicants need to select Form 8, which is used for corrections in the electoral roll and changes in residence. Those applying for themselves should choose the 'Self' option followed by 'Shifting of Residence'.

Applicants must then indicate whether the new address falls within the same Assembly constituency or outside it. The next step involves entering the complete address, including the state, district, Assembly constituency, house number and PIN code.

Identity verification is completed by entering the Aadhaar number and uploading address proof. After accepting the declaration and entering the captcha, the application can be submitted successfully.

Keep The Reference Number Safe

Once the form is submitted, the system generates a reference number. This number should be saved carefully, as it is required to monitor the progress of the application.

Using the 'Track Application Status' option on the Voters' Service Portal, applicants can check whether document verification has been completed, whether the request has been approved or if any additional information has been sought.

Offline Option Still Available

Those who prefer not to apply online can complete the process by visiting the nearest Electoral Registration Office or contacting the local Booth Level Officer. Applicants need to obtain Form 8, fill in their personal details, old and new addresses, and attach photocopies of valid address proof before submitting the form.

After submission, election officials verify the documents and may carry out physical address verification if required. Once the verification process is completed successfully, the address is updated in the electoral records.

The entire process generally takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on document verification and local administrative procedures. Applicants are advised to enter their details carefully, upload clear documents and keep their registered mobile number active to receive OTPs and application updates.

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