Parents of children aged between 5 and 17 years should check their child’s Aadhaar status, as the deadline for completing the mandatory biometric update free of cost is approaching. The UIDAI is currently allowing eligible children to complete the required biometric update without paying a fee, but this benefit is available only until September 30, 2026.
After the deadline, parents will have to pay the applicable charges for the biometric update.
Which Children Need an Aadhaar Biometric Update?
Biometric information is updated at specific stages as a child grows. When Aadhaar is initially issued to young children, fingerprints and iris details are not collected.
The first mandatory biometric update is required when the child reaches the age of 5, followed by another update at the age of 15. Children between 5 and 17 years who have not completed their required biometric update can currently get it done free of charge under the ongoing UIDAI initiative.
Parents of children who have reached the relevant age should complete the process before September 30, 2026, to avoid the applicable fee after the deadline.
How to Update Your Child’s Aadhaar Biometrics
To complete the biometric update, parents or guardians need to take the child to the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
The child’s Aadhaar card or Aadhaar number should be carried to the centre. Parents or guardians should also keep their Aadhaar details available. The biometric information will then be updated at the centre.
Why Is the Biometric Update Important?
Biometric information can change as children grow. Updating the details at the prescribed ages helps keep the biometric information linked to the Aadhaar record up to date.
Parents should therefore check whether their child’s mandatory biometric update has already been completed, particularly if the child has reached the age of 5 or 15.
What Documents Are Required?
Parents should carry the child’s Aadhaar card or Aadhaar number when visiting the Aadhaar centre. It is also advisable to keep the Aadhaar details of the parent or guardian available during the process.
UIDAI had earlier waived the biometric update fee for one year for individuals in the 7-to-15-year age group. Under the current provision mentioned above, mandatory biometric updates are free for children aged 5 to 17 years until September 30, 2026.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes and is based on the information provided regarding Aadhaar biometric updates. Rules, fees and deadlines may be revised by UIDAI from time to time. Readers are advised to verify the latest details through official UIDAI channels before completing an Aadhaar-related service.