How to apply for a Baal Aadhaar card: Step-by-Step guide for parents

Getting a Baal Aadhaar for your child is one of the first official identity-related tasks many parents complete after birth. Issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the blue-colored Aadhaar card is available for children below the age of five and can be used for school admissions, passport applications, healthcare services, and access to various government welfare schemes. If you're planning to enroll your child, here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a Baal Aadhaar card, the documents you'll need, and the mandatory biometric updates required as your child grows. Here are the steps to apply for a Baal Aadhaar card

• Check your child's eligibility

Children below five years of age are eligible for a Baal Aadhaar. For children born on or after October 1, 2023, a birth certificate is mandatory for enrollment.

• Book an appointment

Visit the official UIDAI website and book an appointment at your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. Parents can also visit authorised Aadhaar enrollment centers that accept walk-in applications.

Keep the Required Documents Ready

Before visiting the enrollment center, carry the following:

• Child's original birth certificate

Aadhaar card of one parent or legal guardian

Any additional documents requested by UIDAI, if applicable

• Visit the Aadhaar enrollment center

Submit the enrolment form at the Aadhaar Seva Kendra. The operator will capture the child's photograph, while the parent or legal guardian completes biometric authentication and provides consent. No fingerprint or iris scan is taken for children below five years.

• Collect the enrollment ID

After successful verification, you will receive an acknowledgement slip containing the enrollment ID (EID). This number allows you to track the status of the application online.

• Download or order the Aadhaar card

Once the Aadhaar number is generated, you can download the e-Aadhaar using the Aadhaar number, enrolment ID, or virtual ID. If required, you can also order a PVC Aadhaar card.

Why are biometric updates mandatory?

Since Baal Aadhaar is issued without biometric information, UIDAI requires two mandatory biometric updates:

• At age 5: Fingerprints, an iris scan and a fresh photograph are captured.
• At age 15: Another biometric update is required to record mature biometric details.

Both updates are currently free if completed within the prescribed age limits.

Documents required for Baal Aadhaar

• Keep these documents ready before applying:
• Birth Certificate of the child (mandatory for children born on or after October 1, 2023)
• Aadhaar card of one parent or legal guardian
• Additional documents, if requested by UIDAI during verification

Why should you get a Baal Aadhaar?

Obtaining a Baal Aadhaar soon after birth provides your child with an officially recognized identity that can simplify school admissions, healthcare services, passport applications, travel documentation, and access to government welfare schemes. Applying early also ensures your child is enrolled in Aadhaar-enabled services from the beginning while making future identity verification easier.