The Aadhaar card is now a must-have identity document for every Indian. Whether you want to open a bank account, apply for a SIM card, get subsidies, or access government schemes, Aadhaar is required almost everywhere. The good news is that if you still don’t have an Aadhaar card, you can begin the application process online while sitting at home.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has made booking appointments online very simple. With just a few clicks on your smartphone or computer, you can fill out the form, choose your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra, and schedule a visit. However, biometric details like fingerprints, photos, and iris scans still need to be done in person.
Why Every Indian Citizen Must Have an Aadhaar Card
The Aadhaar card is not just an ID document; it has become a digital identity. It links your details like name, date of birth, mobile number, and address in a unique 12-digit number that works as proof across India. Here’s where Aadhaar is needed:
- To open a bank or post office account
- For getting a new SIM card
- To apply for a passport
- To avail benefits under government schemes
- For school or college scholarships
- For LPG subsidy or pension schemes
Aadhaar plays a key role in removing duplicate or fake identities and ensuring that benefits reach the right person directly.
How to Start the Aadhaar Card Application Process Online from Home
Let’s look at how you can apply for a new Aadhaar card using your phone or laptop.
✅ Step 1: Visit the UIDAI Website
Go to the official UIDAI portal – https://uidai.gov.in.
Under the “My Aadhaar” tab, you will find the option “Book an Appointment.” Click on it.
✅ Step 2: Choose City and Nearest Aadhaar Centre
Once the page opens, you will be asked to select your city or location. After that, you can choose the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (center) where you want to complete your biometric process.
Select the option “New Aadhaar” as your service type.
✅ Step 3: Fill the Online Aadhaar Form
The online form will ask for basic personal details like:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Residential address
- Mobile number
You will receive an OTP on the mobile number you provide. Once you enter that OTP, your form will move to the next step.
✅ Step 4: Upload and Provide Document Details
You must carry valid documents for identity proof, address proof, and date of birth on the appointment day. But during the online process, you need to fill in the names of the documents you’ll bring (like a PAN card, passport, voter ID, or birth certificate).
No document upload is required to book the appointment.
✅ Step 5: Choose Your Date and Time Slot
Now, you can select a convenient date and time to visit the Aadhaar Seva Kendra. Once you confirm the slot, your online process is complete.
You will get a confirmation slip with your appointment details. Carry it along with original documents on the chosen day.
What Happens at Aadhaar Seva Kendra?
On the day of your appointment, visit the selected Aadhaar center. The officials will do the following:
- Click your photograph
- Scan your fingerprints
- Take a scan of your iris (eye)
- Verify your original documents
After all this, you will receive an Enrollment Slip containing a 14-digit enrollment number. You can use this number to track your Aadhaar status on the UIDAI website.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Aadhaar?
Once your biometric and document verification is done, UIDAI starts processing your Aadhaar number. Usually, it takes 15 to 30 days to generate and deliver your Aadhaar.
You can download your Aadhaar card in PDF format from the UIDAI website. If you prefer a physical copy, it will be delivered by India Post to your registered address.
Aadhaar Application Charges: What’s the Cost?
Applying for a new Aadhaar card is completely free. You do not need to pay any fee while filling out the form or during biometric capture.
However, if you want to update any detail in your Aadhaar card later (like mobile number, address, or name), then a small fee will be charged:
- Address or mobile number update – ₹50
- Biometric update – ₹100 (if required)
Essential Things to Keep in Mind While Applying for Aadhaar
- The mobile number you provide must be active to receive OTPs and status updates.
- Ensure that the documents you carry are original and valid.
- Children below 5 years don’t need iris scans and fingerprints.
- Aadhaar is issued only once per person, and having multiple Aadhaar cards is illegal.
Security of Aadhaar Data
People often worry about the safety of their Aadhaar data. UIDAI has taken strong measures to ensure that Aadhaar details remain secure. Aadhaar authentication occurs with OTPs or biometrics, and sharing your Aadhaar number with proper consent is safe.
If you still feel uncomfortable, you can lock/unlock your Aadhaar biometrics on the UIDAI portal anytime.
Final Tip: Use e-Aadhaar for Quick Access
You can download your Aadhaar card digitally using the “e-Aadhaar” facility from the UIDAI website. It is equally valid as the physical copy and contains a QR code to verify authenticity.
Source: UIDAI, Financial Express
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify all Aadhaar-related services from the official UIDAI website or Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
