How to Apply for Aadhaar Card in India
Step-by-Step Process, Documents Required & Latest UIDAI Rules
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to residents of India. It serves as a proof of identity and address and is widely used for government schemes, banking, mobile connections, and other essential services.
UIDAI has simplified the Aadhaar enrolment process while introducing new rules to ensure accuracy, security, and transparency.
Who Can Apply for Aadhaar?
- • Any resident of India (including children and infants)
- • Aadhaar is voluntary, but mandatory for many services
- • There is no age limit
- • Aadhaar is not a proof of citizenship, only residence
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Aadhaar Card
Step 1: Locate Aadhaar Enrolment Centre
Visit the official UIDAI website and search for the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre or Permanent Enrolment Centre. These centres are available at banks, post offices, CSCs, and government offices.
Step 2: Book an Appointment (Optional but Recommended)
You can book an online appointment to avoid long waiting hours. Walk-in enrolment is also allowed at most centres.
Step 3: Visit the Enrolment Centre
Carry original documents for verification. Photocopies are not accepted without originals.
Step 4: Document Verification
The operator verifies your documents related to:
• Identity
• Address
• Date of Birth
If you do not have documents, a Head of Family (HoF) or Introducer facility can be used (as per UIDAI norms).
Step 5: Biometric Data Collection
Your biometric details will be captured:
• Fingerprints (all 10 fingers)
• Iris scan (both eyes)
• Photograph
For children below 5 years, biometrics are not captured.
Step 6: Aadhaar Enrolment Form Submission
Check all details carefully (name, DOB, address, mobile number). Corrections after submission may take time.
Step 7: Acknowledgement Slip (EID)
You will receive an Enrolment ID (EID) slip.
This can be used to track Aadhaar status online.
Step 8: Aadhaar Generation & Delivery
Aadhaar is generated within 7–90 days and sent:
• By post to registered address
• Digitally as e-Aadhaar
Documents Required for Aadhaar Enrolment
UIDAI accepts documents under three categories:
Proof of Identity (PoI)
• Passport
• PAN Card
• Voter ID
• Driving Licence
Proof of Address (PoA)
• Passport
• Bank Passbook
• Ration Card
• Electricity/Water Bill
Proof of Date of Birth (PoB)
• Birth Certificate
• Passport
• Class 10 Certificate
Aadhaar for Children (Baala Aadhaar)
For Children Below 5 Years
• Aadhaar is linked to parent’s Aadhaar
• Only photograph is taken
• Blue-coloured Aadhaar issued
Mandatory Biometric Update
• At age 5 – biometric update compulsory
• At age 15 – second mandatory biometric update
Latest UIDAI Rules & Updates (Important)
Birth Certificate Mandatory
For children born on or after the notified cut-off date, birth certificate is compulsory as proof of date of birth.Biometric Update Rule
Aadhaar becomes invalid for children if mandatory biometric updates at age 5 and 15 are not done.Limited Free Updates
Free demographic updates are allowed within a limited period; after that, a fee is charged.Document Authentication Strengthened
UIDAI has tightened verification to prevent fake or duplicate Aadhaar enrolments.Mobile Number Important
Linking a valid mobile number is strongly recommended for OTP-based services.PVC Aadhaar Option
Residents can order PVC Aadhaar Card online for durability.Aadhaar Not Mandatory for All Services
Aadhaar cannot be denied if an alternative ID is legally acceptable.
Fees for Aadhaar Services
• New Aadhaar enrolment: Free
• Demographic update: ₹50
• Biometric update: ₹100
• PVC Aadhaar card: ₹50 (including GST & delivery)
How to Check Aadhaar Status
Use:
• Enrolment ID (EID)
• Registered mobile number
Status can be checked on the UIDAI portal.
Important Points
• Aadhaar issued by: UIDAI (Statutory Authority)
• Aadhaar Act: 2016
• Aadhaar is proof of residence, not citizenship
• 12-digit unique number
• Mandatory biometric update at 5 & 15 years
• New enrolment is free of cost
The Aadhaar enrolment process is simple, free, and citizen-friendly. With the introduction of stricter verification and mandatory biometric updates, UIDAI aims to make Aadhaar more secure and reliable. Every resident should ensure their Aadhaar details are accurate and updated to avoid future service issues