July 17, 2025
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has issued an important notification for parents: Children who were issued an Aadhaar card before the age of 5 must update their biometrics — including fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs — once they cross five years of age.
Failing to complete this mandatory Aadhaar update before turning 7 years old may lead to temporary deactivation of the child’s Aadhaar number, affecting its usage for government schemes and school admissions.
Why Is Aadhaar Update Important for Kids?
Child Aadhaar cards issued below the age of 5 are generated without biometrics — only a photograph is taken. These cards are considered valid initially, but biometric revalidation becomes essential once the child grows older.
UIDAI has now started sending SMS alerts to the registered mobile numbers linked with these Aadhaar cards, urging parents to complete the biometric update at their nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (enrolment center).
Update Timeline and Charges:
- ✅ Free Update: If done between 5 and 7 years of age
- 💸 ₹100 Fee: If updated after 7 years (delayed update)
What Happens If You Don’t Update?
Children who fail to update their Aadhaar between 5 and 7 years risk deactivation of their Aadhaar. This can lead to:
- Ineligibility for school scholarships
- Delays in government scheme enrollments
- Problems in linking with health and welfare databases
How to Update Your Child’s Aadhaar:
- Visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra
- Carry the child’s original Aadhaar card
- Bring proof of date of birth and parent/guardian ID
- Complete biometric and photo capture
- Get an acknowledgment slip after successful update
Pro Tip:
Always keep your mobile number updated in the Aadhaar database to receive alerts from UIDAI. This ensures timely updates and uninterrupted services.
Key Highlights:
- Children must update Aadhaar biometrics after turning 5
- Aadhaar may be deactivated if not updated before age 7
- Free update if done on time; ₹100 if delayed
- UIDAI has started sending SMS reminders to parents
- Biometric update includes fingerprints, iris scan, and a new photo