Aadhaar Card: Eligibility Requirements, Documents Checklist, and Status Tracking

Also Check : How To link Aadhar Card with PAN Card

Aadhar Card Information

As a government-issued document, Aadhaar Card serves as proof of identity and address for purposes such as opening bank accounts, applying for loans, and accessing government subsidies.

Note:  You can submit your Proof of Identity (PoI) and Proof of Address (PoA) documents for Aadhaar enrolment without any charges until 14 June 2026.  

Information Contained in Aadhaar Card

• Demographic information
  a. Name
  b. Date of birth/age
  c. Address
  d. EID- the enrolment number
  e. Barcode
• Biometric information
  a. Photograph
  b. Iris scan (both eyes)
  c. Fingerprints (all ten)
• Find Information About Aadhaar Enrolment Centres - Applicants can find information on Aadhaar Enrolment Centres as well as Permanent Enrolment Centres on the UIDAI website, which lists current enrolment centres by state and city. A detailed guide on how to find existing Aadhaar Enrolment Centres can be found here.
• How to update Aadhaar details online? If your Aadhaar details have errors or you wish to change information after you have submitted your application, you can update or correct this information online by visiting the UIDAI website. Both demographic data as well as biometric information can be updated. Find a step-by-step guide on the process to update Aadhaar details online.
• How to Add Your Mobile Number to Aadhaar Card? - Adding your mobile number to your Aadhar card is important as availing Aadhaar services and making changes/updating details in your Aadhaar card requires two-factor authorisation, with an OTP being sent to your registered mobile number. In order to add your mobile number, you will have to visit a Permanent Aadhaar Centre and submit an application to add the same to your card. Find a guide on how to update mobile number in Aadhaar.
• e-Aadhaar - The e-Aadhaar is an electronic copy of your Aadhar card and can be used in lieu of a physical copy of the card. It is accepted universally and can be downloaded from the UIDAI website. The eAadhaar is saved in a PDF format and is password protected. You can also choose to download a masked copy of your Aadhaar, which will hide your Aadhaar number.
• mAadhaar - With a view to making the Aadhaar card and its allied services more universally available, the UIDAI has released mAadhaar which is a mobile application for Android devices. The app contains the user's Aadhaar information in a digitized form and enables accessibility on the go. Users can add up to 3 profiles on their app and perform a wide variety of services such as locking their biometrics and accessing their e-KYC for Aadhaar. Find a more comprehensive guide to the mAadhaar app, including linking your mobile.

Aadhaar Card Details

The following is the list of vital details about Aadhar:

Aadhaar Card Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for applying for an Aadhaar card include:

1. Indian citizens residing in India
2. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) residing in India
3. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders with a valid foreign passport who have stayed in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months
4. Long-Term Visa (LTV) holders with a foreign passport issued to minority communities (Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, and Christians) from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan
5. Nationals of Nepal or Bhutan
6. Other resident foreigners who have resided in India for at least 182 days in the last year

Aadhaar Card for Indians

Indians residing in India can apply for Aadhaar. However, as per the rule by the Government of India, it is now mandatory to link your Aadhaar with your PAN so as to file your income tax returns.

Aadhaar Card for Minors

Minors or citizens of India below the age of 18 years can also apply for an Aadhaar. However, the details of the parents of the child including their identity and address proof are to be provided. Newborn babies can also apply for Aadhaar; however, they will have to get their biometrics updated as soon as they turn five years and 15 years old.

Find a detailed guide to about Baal Aadhaar

Aadhar for NRIs

NRIs can apply for an Aadhaar Card. However, NRIs must have a valid Indian Passport to apply for an Aadhar.

Find a detailed guide to about NRI or  Foreign Aadhaar

Documents Required for Aadhaar Card

There is a list of documents that you should carry for the Aadhaar card enrolment process. In general, for the application process, you will be required to provide - proof of identity, proof of address, proof of age, and proof of relationship. Mentioned below is a list of documents for each of these cases that you can provide for the enrolment process:

To Know Complete list of Valid Document for Aadhaar card Document for Aadhar card.

List of Aadhaar Services on UIDAI Portal

UIDAI provides the following Aadhaar-related services:

Verify Aadhaar: Confirm if the Aadhaar number is valid and active.

Verify an Aadhaar Number: Verify registered mobile or email ID used during Aadhaar enrolment or recent updates.

Verify Email or Mobile Number: Check the registered mobile number or email ID associated with your Aadhaar.

Retrieve Aadhaar: Retrieve Aadhaar number using registered mobile.

Retrieve Lost or Forgotten EID/UID: Get back lost or forgotten Aadhaar details.

Generate VID: Create a temporary 16-digit Virtual ID for Aadhaar authentication, which cannot be used to derive the Aadhaar number.

Virtual ID (VID) Generator: Generate a Virtual ID for secure Aadhaar verification.

Offline Aadhaar Verification: Use Aadhaar Paperless e-KYC for offline identity verification.

Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC (Beta): A secure document for offline verification using Aadhaar.

Aadhaar Linking Status: Check the status of your Aadhaar and bank account linkage from the NPCI server.

Bank Seeding Status: Verify the Aadhaar card link with bank account status.

Check Aadhaar Validity: Confirm if Aadhaar number is valid.

Secure Your Biometrics: Lock biometric data for enhanced security.

Lock/Unlock Biometrics: Lock or unlock biometric authentication for Aadhaar.

Authentication History: View the last 50 authentication transactions linked to Aadhaar.

Aadhaar Lock or Unlock: Lock or unlock Aadhaar number to prevent authentication, while allowing Virtual ID-based authentication.

Aadhaar Lock and Unlock Service: Manage your Aadhaar number security through lock/unlock services.

Aadhaar Services on SMS: Access Aadhaar services via SMS by sending a request from your registered mobile to 1947.

How to Enroll for Aadhaar?

The Aadhaar application process can be done from any authorised Aadhar Enrolment Centre/Permanent Enrolment Centre. You can find an updated list of existing Aadhaar Enrolment Centres on the UIDAI website.

In an effort to simplify the enrolment process, the UIDAI has also authorised over 10,000 post offices and bank branches to operate as Permanent Enrolment Centres.

Also know about  if Aadhaar Card is not Received

Applicants can follow the Procedure Listed below to Complete the Enrolment Process:

Step 1 - Visit the official website of Aadhar to find an Aadhaar enrolment centre

Step 2 - Enter the required details to fill in the form

Step 3 - Submit the required documents.

Step 4 - The applicant needs to provide their biometrics (fingerprint and iris scan).

Step 5 - The applicant needs to obtain the enrolment acknowledgement slip

Step 6 - The applicant will receive their Aadhaar card at the registered address.

Step 7 - The Aadhaar enrolment is voluntary service offered free of cost.

Steps to Enroll for Baal-Aadhaar

The following are the steps to enrol for Baal Aadhar:

Step 1 - Visit the UIDAI website to find the nearest enrolment center

Step 2 - Visit the enrolment center with a copy of the child’s birth certificate.

Step 3 - The Aadhar number of one of the child’s parents must be provided compulsorily for authentication and Baal Aadhaar will be linked to the parents Aadhaar.

Step 4 - All relevant details and a mobile number that the applicant wishes to register with Baal Adhaar must be filled in on the Baal Aadhar application form.

Step 5 - A photograph of the child or minor will be taken, and no biometric will be recorded if the child is below five years of age.

Step 6 - Collect the acknowledgment slip, after completing the above steps.

Step 7 - Baal Aadhar will be dispatched to the designated address, after verification SMS is sent to the mobile number as mentioned in the application form.

How to Update Aadhaar?

Aadhar Card Update can be done through two main sources, such as via enrolment center or through online mode. Here are the two main purpose of updating Aadhar:

1. Change details like name, age, date of birth, mobile number, address, photo,

1. Change Biometric Aadhaar data; Iris, Fingerprint

Applicants can update address through online mode, while other demographic data along with biometric data can be updated by visiting the enrolment center only

How to Apply for Aadhaar without any Documents?

As per the UIDAI's Aadhaar enrolment form, the two different methods to apply for an Aadhaar card in case you don't have the supporting documents are mentioned below:

• Head of Family (HoF) based application: Under this enrolment process, the Head of Family (with a valid Aadhaar) can submit documents proving his/her relationship to the applicant. The applicant's enrolment will then be processed after successful verification of these details.
• Introducer-based application: In cases where the applicant has no valid proof of identity or address documents, an Introducer appointed by a Registrar can assist in the enrolment process. The Introducer can be contacted through the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.

Find a detailed guide to checking your Aadhaar status online.

Check Aadhaar Card Application Status Online

The following are the steps to check Aadhaar card status:

1. Visit the official UIDAI website

1. Login to the portal using the credentials

1. Under ‘My Aadhaar’ section, click on ‘Check Aadhaar Status’

1. Enter enrolment number and time of enrolment

1. Click on ‘Check Status’ after entering the captcha verification code

How to Download/Print Aadhaar Card?

In an effort to make the Aadhaar more accessible, the UIDAI has made arrangements for the electronic storage and retrieval of Aadhaar details. Known as the e-Aadhaar, this card is available in a PDF format and Aadhaar Card Download from the UIDAI website.

The e-Aadhaar can be accessed through the official UIDAI website by using any of the following:

1. With Aadhaar number.
2. With Virtual ID (VID).
3. With Enrolment ID (EID).

Find a detailed guide on how to download/print your e-Aadhaar card from the UIDAI Website.

Aadhaar Card Verification

Follow the procedure for Aadhaar Card Verification mentioned below the steps

Step 1 - Visit the official UIDAI website.

Step 2 - Go to the ‘My Aadhaar’ section.

Step 3 - Click on ‘Verify an Aadhaar Number’. The option can be found under the ‘Aadhaar Services’ section.

Step 4 - Enter the Aadhaar number and captcha.

Step 5 - Click on ‘Proceed and Verify Aadhaar’.

Step 6 - Follow the steps on the next page to complete the process.

You can reach UIDAI on the toll-free number 1947, in case there is a mismatch in detail.

Find a guide on how to check your authentication history.

Quick Guide to Link Aadhaar with PAN

The Indian Government has imposed a requirement for individuals to connect their PAN (Permanent Account Number) with Aadhaar (Unique Identification Number) when filing their Income Tax Returns. This mandate is in accordance with Section 133 AA (2) of the Income Tax Act. Currently, the deadline for PAN-Aadhaar linking is set for 30 June 2023.

However, if you complete the PAN-Aadhaar linking process by 30 June 2022, a fee of Rs. 500 will apply. For linking done between 1 July 2022, and 30 June 2023, the fee will be Rs. 1,000.

There are two methods for linking PAN with Aadhaar:

1. Linking PAN with Aadhaar through the e-filing website.

1. Linking Aadhaar Number and PAN via SMS.

Aadhaar PVC Card

UIDAI introduced a new form of Aadhaar called the Aadhaar PVC Card. Apart from being durable and easy to carry, the new PVC card comes with several security features. You can order the PVC Aadhaar Card online by using the Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID, or Virtual ID. Rs.50 will be charged to apply for the Aadhaar PVC Card. The new card will be sent via speed post to the registered address.

How to Update Aadhaar Card Address or Correction without Formal Address Proof?

When you relocate to a new city or change your residence, especially after marriage, obtaining valid address proof can be quite challenging. Fortunately, you now have the option to modify your Aadhaar card address without the need for supporting documents, making it a viable address proof.

This can be achieved through the Aadhaar Address Validation Letter, which is furnished by an address verifier. The verifier's address will also be incorporated into your Aadhaar card, with no additional personal information being shared. Your verifier could be a relative, friend, family member, or even your landlord, as long as they are willing to provide their address details for this purpose.

Note: Please note that this service is temporarily unavailable as per UIDAI's latest announcement.

Procedure for Aadhaar Card Link with  Bank Account

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed the linking of all bank accounts with Aadhaar in 2017. Nevertheless, following the Supreme Court's 2018 ruling, it is no longer obligatory to link your Aadhaar with your bank account. However, if you choose to link Aadhaar card with bank account, you can accomplish this through any of the following methods:

1. Aadhaar Link with Bank Account through Internet Banking
2. Utilise the Bank's Mobile Application
3. Visit the nearest bank branch for assistance
4. Use an ATM for the purpose
5. Employ the SMS service
6. Make use of your mobile number for the linkage.

How to Secure or Release your Biometric Information in Aadhaar?

Aadhaar serves as a vital proof of identity and address for Indian citizens, playing a crucial role in accessing government-related services. To enhance the security of your Aadhaar, UIDAI offers the option to lock or unlock your biometric data online. Here are the methods for locking and unlocking your Aadhaar biometrics:

1. Secure or Release Aadhaar Biometric Data through UIDAI's Official Website.

1. Safeguard or Release Aadhaar Biometric Data using the mAdhaar mobile application.

What is Aadhaar Virtual ID?

Aadhaar Virtual ID is a temporary code consisting of a 16-digit number which is the alternative to the Aadhaar number generated against an Aadhaar number. The virtual ID cannot be used to retrieve the original Aadhaar card under any circumstances. Applicants can generate only one virtual ID generated against an Aadhaar number that can be generated as many times as the applicants wants.

What is Aadhaar Authentication?

To enable cardholders to avail themselves of services and benefits from the service provider, Aadhaar details of an individual must be submitted to UIDAI for verification and the process is known as Aadhaar Authentication. The process involves verification of an individual’s Aadhaar number, along with demographic details (such as name, date of birth, gender) or biometric data (fingerprints or iris scan), which are submitted to UIDAI’s Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR). UIDAI then verifies the accuracy of the information against its database.

For many service providers, Aadhaar is a significant eKYC documents the enables users to avail themselves of the benefits as well as helps the government to verify the identity of the users. Here are some of the reasons why Aadhar is preferred for eKYC:

1. Aadhaar holders can directly share KYC data without UIDAI’s knowledge.
2. Instead of the Aadhaar number, only a reference ID is shared.· Core biometrics (fingerprints or iris) are not required for verification.
3. Aadhaar holders can choose which data (demographics or photo) to share.
4. KYC data downloaded by the Aadhaar holder is digitally signed by UIDAI for authenticity and tamper detection.
5. Agencies can validate data using OTP (One Time Password) or Face Authentication.
6. KYC data is encrypted with a phrase set by the Aadhaar holder, giving them control over their data.
7. Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC is voluntary and driven by the Aadhaar holder’s consent.
8. To enable wide usage of Aadhar, any agency can use it with the Aadhaar holder’s consent.

Things to Remember when Updating the Aadhaar

The following are some of the vital points that should be remembered while filling out Aadhar form whether filling out the form online or offline:

1. Fill in the form using capital letters

1. Salutation such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss cannot be used before the name

1. The form can be filled out in either the individual’s native language or English

1. Individuals must provide their current mobile number

1. Make sure to provide the address where the Aadhar to be delivered

1. Along with the application, individuals also must submit their necessary documents

1. Application will be rejected if any expired documents are submitted

1. Individuals must make sure that they provide accurate information

Aadhar Card Customer Care

The following are some of the details about Aadhar card customer care:

1. Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced 24X7 IVR (Interactive voice response) services where individuals can call at toll-free number 1947 regarding any Aadhar-related services.
2. You can also write an email at help@uidai.gov.in

1. The IVR service is available on Mondays to Saturdays from 07:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. on Sundays.

1. It is not available on the three national holidays which are 26 January, 15 August and 2 October.

Benefits of Aadhaar Card

The list of significant benefits of Aadhar are mentioned below:

Direct Benefit Transfer (LPG Subsidy): Link Aadhaar with your LPG consumer number to receive subsidies directly into your bank account under the PAHAL scheme.  

Jan Dhan Yojana: Use Aadhaar as the primary document to open a PMJDY account, which offers a RuPay card, zero balance savings, and insurance coverage.  

Passport Issuance in 10 Days: Get a passport within 10 days by using Aadhaar for verification before police clearance.  

Digital Locker: Store personal documents securely on government servers by linking your Aadhaar to the DigiLocker system.

Voter Card Linking: Aadhaar linking with voter IDs helps eliminate bogus voters and ensures one voter ID per person.

Monthly Pension: Pensioners must link their Aadhaar to receive monthly pensions and prevent fraud.

Provident Fund: Aadhaar is now mandatory for accessing Employee Provident Fund (EPF) benefits in both organized and unorganized sectors.

Opening a Bank Account: Use Aadhaar as valid proof for opening a bank account, replacing multiple documents.

Digital Life Certificate: Pensioners can now use Aadhaar-linked digital certificates to renew life certificates without physical presence.

SEBI: Aadhaar is accepted as valid proof of identity and address for investing in the stock market.

Mobile Number Linking: All mobile subscribers must link Aadhaar to their numbers, with new connections requiring Aadhaar verification.

Driving License Linking: Plans to link Aadhaar with driving licenses to reduce the number of licenses.

PAN must be linked to Aadhaar to file taxes.

Investments: Aadhaar is mandatory for investing in mutual funds and other financial products.

Existing Bank Accounts: Account holders must link their Aadhaar within 6 months of account opening.

IRCTC Ticket Booking: Book up to 12 tickets a month on IRCTC by verifying your Aadhaar, with no verification required for up to 8 tickets.

Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA): Create a unique 14-digit ABHA number using Aadhaar to manage health records.

Features of Aadhar Card

Aadhar is a vital document issued by the Indian government to all Indian residents and the key features of this document are mentioned below:

One Aadhaar: Aadhaar is a unique number linked to an individual's biometrics, preventing duplicates and identifying fake identities, reducing leakages and enabling governments to expand benefits to eligible individuals.

Portability: Aadhaar is a universal number, allowing agencies and services to authenticate a beneficiary’s identity anywhere in the country through the central UID database.

Electronic Benefit Transfers: The UID-enabled Bank Account network provides a secure, low-cost platform for direct benefit transfers, eliminating high costs and reducing leakages in current distribution systems.

Aadhaar-Based Authentication for Entitlement: UIDAI offers online authentication services to validate Aadhaar holders’ identities, ensuring benefits reach the correct beneficiaries.

Improved Services and Transparency: Increased accountability and transparency, enhanced access and quality of entitlements for beneficiaries and agencies.

Self-Service Control: Aadhaar holders can access entitlement information, demand services, and file grievances via mobile, kiosks, or other means, with secure two-factor authentication compliant with RBI standards.

Also, know more about on Benefits of Aadhaar Card