Aadhaar Update Alert: Update Your Child's Aadhaar Biometrics to Avoid Deactivation; UIDAI Issues Advisory

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has issued an important reminder to parents and guardians to complete their child's Mandatory Biometric Update in Aadhaar before they turn seven. The biometric update is free of cost for children between the ages of five and seven and is a very important step to keep your child's Aadhaar Card active and make sure that they are able to access benefits like school admissions, entrance exams, scholarships, and DBT schemes.

Updating Your Child's Aadhaar Biometrics Is Important

When a child is enrolled for Aadhaar below the age of five, only their photo, name, gender, address, and supporting documents are captured. Fingerprint and iris biometrics are not collected because they are not fully developed at this stage.

As per UIDAI guidelines, once the child turns five years old, the first Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) must be done, which includes taking fingerprints, an iris scan, and a new photograph. If this is done between the ages of 5 and 7, no fee is charged. However, if this is delayed beyond the age of 7, a nominal fee of Rs. 100 is applicable.

If the biometric update is not completed after 7 years, the Aadhaar number may get deactivated.

UIDAI Is Sending SMS Alerts

UIDAI has started sending SMS alerts to mobile numbers that are registered in the child's Aadhaar, requesting parents to take immediate action. Parents can visit any Aadhaar Seva Kendra or designated Aadhaar enrolment centre to complete the update.

Benefits of an Updated Aadhaar for Children

Since an Aadhaar is very important proof of identification in India, it should be updated with biometrics in proper time, as it will be useful for several purposes, like school admissions, applications for entrance exams, scholarships and educational schemes, direct benefit transfer benefits, and access to government subsidies and schemes.

Where and How to Update Aadhaar Biometrics for Children: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra.

Step 2: Carry your child's original Aadhaar card.

Step 3: Bring valid documents for address and identity proof.

Step 4: Make sure the registered mobile number is active to receive OTPs or communication.

The biometric will be collected at the Aadhaar centre, and the updated Aadhaar will be sent via post to the registered address. It can also be downloaded on the UIDAI app.