Aadhaar is one of the most important documents that is widely used for identity and other purposes. As a child grows, some Aadhaar details may need to be refreshed since their physical features – including fingerprints – change significantly. Delaying an update can also create problems when Aadhaar is required for school, government services, scholarships or other official purposes.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced Aadhaar enrolment for children (specifically launched as the blue ‘Baal Aadhaar’ card) in 2018. they become mandatory when the child turns 5 While biometric details are not needed for infants (till the age of 5).
Make sure you have the following documents readily available: UIDAI has introduced Aadhaar card for children in blue colour to give it a different identity. The process is straightforward, but parents need to know when an update is due, where it can be done and what documents may be required. At that time, their fingerprints, iris scans and a new photo is added against their name in the Aadhaar database. Parents or guardians must take their children to local Aadhaar enrolment centre to update their biometrics in the Aadhaar database.
Biometric details of children are recorded for the first time when they reach the age of 5. Once the child turns 15, they must update their biometrics again to record their mature physical traits. The mandatory biometric updates for children aged 5 and 15 is completely free till September 30, according to UIDAI. If the deadline is missed, the parents will have to pay Rs 125. However, those updating their biometric details for the first time won’t be charged anything even after September 30, 2026. As per Section 3(1) of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, every resident is entitled to obtain an Aadhaar number, including children, by submitting his demographic information and biometric information during the process of enrolment. Till the age of 5, the Aadhaar number of the child is linked with either of the parent’s Aadhaar.
