Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide for applying for an Aadhaar card, along with information on fees, correction, and KYC requirements:
1. Steps to Apply for an Aadhaar Card:
Step 1: Locate an Aadhaar Enrollment Center
- Visit the official UIDAI website to locate an enrollment center near you.
- You can search by entering your pin code or selecting your state and district.
Step 2: Book an Appointment (Optional)
- Some centers allow online appointment booking to avoid long waiting times.
- Visit the Aadhaar Seva Kendra booking page to schedule an appointment.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
You need proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of date of birth. Examples include:
- Proof of Identity (PoI): PAN card, passport, voter ID, driving license, etc.
- Proof of Address (PoA): Utility bills, bank statements, rental agreements, etc.
- Proof of Date of Birth (DoB): Birth certificate, passport, SSLC certificate, etc.
Step 4: Visit the Enrollment Center
- Carry the original documents and photocopies.
- Fill out the Aadhaar Enrollment Form provided at the center.
Step 5: Provide Biometrics and Details
- Your photograph, fingerprints, and iris scan will be captured.
- Verify the information entered by the operator and sign off.
Step 6: Receive Acknowledgment Slip
- After the process, you’ll receive an acknowledgment slip with a 14-digit Enrollment ID (EID), which can be used to check the status of your Aadhaar.
2. Fees for Aadhaar Enrollment and Services:
| Service | Fees |
|---|---|
| New Aadhaar enrollment | Free |
| Mandatory biometric updates for minors (age 5 and 15) | Free |
| Demographic updates (online or center) | ₹50 per update |
| Biometric updates | ₹100 per update |
| Aadhaar reprint (physical copy) | ₹50 (via UIDAI portal) |
3. Correction or Update in Aadhaar Card:
Steps for Correction or Update:
- Online Correction:
- Visit the My Aadhaar Portal.
- Log in using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
- Select the detail you wish to update (e.g., name, address, etc.).
- Upload supporting documents.
- Pay the required fee online.
- Offline Correction:
- Visit an Aadhaar Enrollment/Update Center.
- Provide the necessary documents for the required updates.
- Pay the applicable fees and receive an acknowledgment receipt.
4. KYC for Aadhaar:
Documents Required for KYC:
- Proof of Identity (PoI): PAN card, passport, etc.
- Proof of Address (PoA): Utility bills, bank passbook, etc.
KYC Verification Steps:
- Visit your service provider (bank, telecom company, etc.) with your Aadhaar card.
- Biometric or OTP-based authentication is done.
- After verification, your Aadhaar-linked KYC is updated.
5. Time Required for Aadhaar Processing:
| Service | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| New Aadhaar Enrollment | 7-90 days |
| Aadhaar Update (Demographic/Biometric) | 3-30 days |
| Aadhaar Reprint Delivery | 5-10 working days |
An Aadhaar card is a vital identity document in India that serves multiple purposes across various aspects of life. Here’s why it is important:
1. Unique Identity Proof
- Aadhaar is a Universal ID: It assigns a unique 12-digit identification number to every resident, which is universally accepted as proof of identity and address.
- Biometric Authentication: It ensures that no two individuals have the same Aadhaar due to biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans) and demographic details.
2. Government Welfare and Subsidies
- Aadhaar is essential for availing direct benefit transfers (DBTs) like LPG subsidies, scholarships, pensions, and other government schemes.
- It ensures subsidies and benefits reach the intended beneficiaries by eliminating duplicates and fake identities.
3. Financial Inclusion
- Aadhaar is used for opening bank accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and other schemes.
- It simplifies KYC (Know Your Customer) processes for banks, mutual funds, and financial services.
4. Filing Income Tax Returns
- Linking Aadhaar with PAN is mandatory for filing income tax returns and for tax compliance in India.
5. Mobile and SIM Connection
- Aadhaar is widely used for mobile number verification and to obtain new SIM cards easily.
6. Availing Ration and PDS Benefits
- Aadhaar helps in streamlining the Public Distribution System (PDS) by linking ration cards to eliminate ghost beneficiaries and ensure food grains reach the needy.
7. Healthcare and Education
- Aadhaar is often required for availing health insurance schemes, vaccinations, and government-funded health programs.
- It is used for registering in schools, colleges, and exams like NEET and JEE.
8. Proof of Address Across India
- As it is a nationally recognized document, Aadhaar serves as valid proof of address and identity across the country for various services.
9. Digital India Initiatives
- Aadhaar is integral to digital initiatives, like eSign (digital signature), DigiLocker (secure document storage), and Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
10. Simplifying Life Processes
- Aadhaar is required for several other purposes, including:
- Applying for passports or visas.
- Registering for Employee Provident Fund (EPF).
- Receiving pensions.
Conclusion
The Aadhaar card has become a cornerstone of India’s governance and service delivery, making life more convenient and efficient while promoting transparency and accountability. It simplifies processes and ensures inclusivity for every resident of India.