, How to Apply for Aadhaar Card Online and Offline

How to Apply for Aadhaar Card Online and Offline

Aadhaar card is a very vital identity document in India. It serves as a key identification document for more than a billion indian residents.

The Aadhaar Card is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Every Aadhaar card contains a 12-digit unique identification number that is directly linked to your biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans) and demographic information (name, date of birth, address, etc.). It is required to apply for government services, open a bank account, or apply for some government and non-government subsidies. It can be used for the following purposes:

  • To access government subsidies and schemes.
  • file income tax returns.
  • Link your bank accounts and mobile numbers.
  • It also serves as key proof of identity and address.

Every resident of India, along with NRIs and foreign nationals, can apply for an Aadhaar Card for free. It is valid for a lifetime.

Aadhaar Card online registration is very simple through UIDAI's official portal. Follow these steps to apply online:

  • Go to the official UIDAI website (myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in).
  • Then go to the "Book an Appointment" section for Aadhaar enrollment.

  • Select your state, city, and nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Centre.
  • Choose a convenient date and time for your appointment.
  • Enter your mobile number to receive a confirmation OTP.

  • Download the Aadhaar Card application form (also called the Enrollment Form) from UIDAI.
  • Fill in the required details, such as:
    • Full name
    • Date of birth
    • Gender
    • Address
    • Mobile number and email (optional)
  • You can also collect a physical copy of the form at the Enrollment Centre.

Carry all the required documents to the Aadhaar enrollment Centre. which are:

  • Proof of Identity: PAN card, passport, voter ID, or driving license.
  • Proof of Address: Utility bill, ration card, or bank passbook.
  • Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, SSLC certificate, or passport.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photographs (optional, as photos are taken at the centre).

For a detailed list, check our Documents Required page.

  • Go to the Aadhaar Enrollment Centre on the scheduled date and time.
  • Submit the filled Aadhaar Card application form along with other required documents.
  • The operator will take your biometric data, including fingerprints, iris scan, and a real-time photograph.

  • You'll receive an acknowledgment slip with an Enrollment ID (EID).
  • This EID can be used to check your Aadhaar status online.

  • Your Aadhaar Card will be generated within 60 to 90 days.
  • After that, you'll receive an SMS with a download link to your e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI website.
  • You will receive the physical card at your registered address by mail.

Here's the step-by-step guide to apply offline for the Aadhaar Card by visiting the Aadhaar Enrollment Centre in person:

  • Visit the UIDAI website or call the toll-free number (1947) to find the nearest Enrollment Centre.
  • They are located in post offices, banks, and government offices.

  • Collect the Aadhaar Card application form from the Enrollment Centre or download it online from the UIDAI website.

  • Fill out the application by entering accurate details, including:
    • Name
    • Address
    • Date of birth
    • Contact information

  • Bring original and photocopies of:
    • Proof of Identity
    • Proof of Address
    • Proof of Date of Birth
  • If you don’t have these documents, then you can use an introducer (like a gazetted officer) or Head of Family (HoF) certification.

  • The Enrollment Centre operator will:
    • Take your photograph.
    • Scan your fingerprints and iris.
    • Verify your documents.

  • You'll receive an acknowledgment slip with the Enrollment ID.
  • Check your application status using your enrollment ID.

  • Your Aadhaar Card will be processed within 60 to 90 days.
  • After that, you can download your e-Aadhaar by yourself or wait for the physical card to arrive.

To apply for an Aadhaar Card, you need to submit the following documents. Here's a quick overview:

  • Proof of Identity: Aadhaar requires documents like PAN card, voter ID, passport, or ration card.
  • Proof of Address: Utility bills, bank statements, or rent agreements are valid.
  • Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, SSLC certificate, or passport.
  • Relationship Proof (if applicable): For children or dependents, a parent's Aadhaar or other ID may be required.

For a complete list, check our Required Documents page.

Note: if you do not have these valid documents then you can enroll through an introducer or Head of Family certification.

The Aadhaar Card application is free for first-time applicants. But :

  • You might be charged a fee of ₹50 to ₹100 to update your personal information or make any corrections in name, address, or mobile number.
  • Some Enrollment Centres can also charge a nominal fee for printing or downloading the e-Aadhar.

Follow the below-mentioned tips to complete your Aadhar Card online registration or offline application:

  • Verify Document: Carry all the valid required documents.
  • Double-Check Details: Double-check every detail in your application to avoid any errors. Because they might delay your Aadhar Card application form.
  • Book Appointments: Book your preferred time slot in advance.
  • Track Application Status: Use your Enrollment ID to check your Aadhaar status.
  • Beware of Fraud: Use the official UIDAI website or authorized centres only to avoid scams and delays.


FAQ's

Yes, the first-time Aadhaar Card application is completely free. Then ou pay for making corrections or updating your information.

Proof of identity, address, and date of birth is required for Aadhaar card application.

It only takes from 60 to 90 days after enrollment. Then you can download your e-Aadhar using the Enrollment ID from the official UIDAI website.

No, you can only do Aadhar Card online registration through the website. Fill the Aadhar Card application form, then visit the enrollment center for further processing.

You can download the Aadhar Card application form online from the official UIDAI website, or you can also collect it from the Aadhar Enrollment Centre.

Yes, children of any age can also apply for an Aadhaar Card. Their parents' Aadhar card is required.

If your Aadhaar card application gets delayed, then visit the Aadhaar Enrollment Centre or contact UIDAI at 1947 for further assistance.