Blue Aadhaar Update Free for One Year: What Should Parents Know?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has simplified the biometric update process for children holding Blue (Baal) Aadhaar cards. The update, essential for school admissions and several government welfare schemes, is now free for one year.
UIDAI, in collaboration with Behavioural Insights Ltd (BIT), has introduced clearer and more parent-friendly guidelines to help families understand the importance of updating biometric details for children aged 5 to 17 years.
Why Is the Biometric Update Necessary?
Blue Aadhaar (Aadhaar for children below 5 years) contains biometric information that naturally changes as a child grows. Without updated details, verification processes linked to various services may be delayed.
Aadhaar is required for:
- School admissions
- Government welfare schemes
- Educational scholarships
- Child welfare programmes
- Identification and verification processes
To avoid mismatches or service delays, updating fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs is crucial.
Free Update Window Announced
UIDAI has announced a complete fee waiver (free MBU) for biometric updates for children aged 7 to 15 years.
Free Update Period:
October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026
Parents can complete their children’s biometric updates at no cost during this one-year window.
Documents Required
To update a child’s Blue Aadhaar, the following are needed:
- Child’s Blue Aadhaar card
- Parent or guardian’s Aadhaar card
- Child’s physical presence (mandatory)
Parents must visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra with these documents.
How the Update Works
The child’s new fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph will be captured at the centre.
A URN (Update Request Number) will be issued to the parent.
Using the URN, the update status can be tracked on the UIDAI website or mAadhaar app.
After the Update
Once processed, the updated Aadhaar can be downloaded through:
- UIDAI portal
- mAadhaar mobile app
This ensures smooth access to educational services, welfare schemes, and identity verification as the child grows.
