What Is a Blue Aadhaar Card? Full Guide on Who Can Apply and How

Blue Aadhaar Card : In India, Aadhaar has become an essential document for identity verification across various sectors. However, for children under 5 years, there is a special version called the Blue Aadhaar Card. This card is specially designed for young children and has a unique set of features and application procedures. In this article, we will explore what the Blue Aadhaar Card is, who is eligible for it, how to apply for it, and why it is important.

What Is a Blue Aadhaar Card?

The Blue Aadhaar Card, also known as ‘Baal Aadhaar,’ is a variant of the standard Aadhaar card issued specifically for children below the age of 5 years. Unlike the regular Aadhaar, it is printed in blue color and does not include biometric data such as fingerprints and iris scans. Instead, it is linked to the demographic information and facial photograph of the child.

Key Features of Blue Aadhaar Card:

• Issued for children below 5 years of age
• Printed in a distinct blue color
• No biometric data (fingerprints or iris scans) required
• Includes a facial photograph
• Mandatory update after the child turns 5 years old
• Free of cost

Importance of the Blue Aadhaar Card

While children under 5 years do not require biometrics, having a Blue Aadhaar is still important for several reasons:

• Acts as a valid identity proof for availing government welfare schemes
• Required for school admissions and vaccination tracking
• Helpful for opening bank accounts for children
• Acts as a basis for updating to a full Aadhaar after 5 years

Eligibility Criteria for Blue Aadhaar Card

To be eligible for a Blue Aadhaar Card, the following conditions must be met:

• Child must be below 5 years of age
• Parents must have a valid Aadhaar Card
• Birth certificate or hospital-issued birth proof is necessary
• Residence proof of parents required
• The child must be an Indian citizen

Eligibility Criteria Table

Eligibility Criteria	Requirement
Age Limit	Below 5 years
Parent’s Aadhaar	Mandatory
Proof of Birth	Birth Certificate or Hospital Slip
Proof of Residence	Parent’s residence proof
Nationality	Indian citizen
Biometric Information	Not required
Mandatory Update after 5 Years	Yes

How to Apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card

The process to apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card is simple and free. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Center.
• Fill out the Aadhaar Enrolment Form for the child.
• Provide parent’s Aadhaar Card and proof of birth document.
• The child’s photograph will be taken.
• Submit the application and collect the acknowledgment slip.
• Aadhaar will be generated and dispatched to your address.

Documents Required for Blue Aadhaar Card

To apply successfully, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Child’s birth certificate or hospital discharge summary
• Parent’s Aadhaar card
• Proof of address (utility bills, passport, rental agreement, etc.)

Documents Required Table

Document Type	Accepted Proofs
Proof of Birth	Birth Certificate, Hospital Slip
Parent’s Aadhaar	Mother or Father’s Aadhaar
Proof of Residence	Passport, Electricity Bill, Rental Agreement
Photograph	Captured during enrollment
Acknowledgement Slip	Provided after form submission
Relationship Proof (if asked)	Passport or Family ID
Any Additional Document	As per local Aadhaar center guidelines

Updating Blue Aadhaar After 5 Years

Once the child crosses the age of 5 years, it becomes mandatory to update the Blue Aadhaar with biometric data. Here’s what needs to be done:

• Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
• Child’s biometric (fingerprint, iris scan) and photograph will be captured.
• Demographic details can also be updated if needed.
• No charges are applicable for this mandatory update.

Biometric Update Steps Table

Step Number	Action to Be Taken
1	Visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra
2	Submit existing Blue Aadhaar
3	Capture biometrics: fingerprints, iris scan
4	Update photograph if needed
5	Verify details
6	Receive updated Aadhaar within a few weeks
7	Use updated Aadhaar for future purposes

Common Questions about Blue Aadhaar Card

1: Is it compulsory to get a Blue Aadhaar for my child? 

No, it is voluntary. However, it is beneficial for availing various services and for early documentation.

2: Is there any fee for applying for a Blue Aadhaar?

No, the enrolment for Blue Aadhaar is completely free.

3: Can we apply online for a Blue Aadhaar Card?

No, physical presence at the enrolment center is required for capturing the child’s photograph.

4: What if I do not update the Blue Aadhaar after 5 years?

The Aadhaar will become inactive if not updated with biometric details after 5 years.

5: Can NRIs apply for Blue Aadhaar?

Yes, if the child is residing in India for 182 days or more in the preceding 12 months.

The Blue Aadhaar Card serves as an essential document for children under 5 years of age, providing them with early access to identity verification benefits. While biometric details are not captured initially, it ensures that the child is smoothly transitioned to a full Aadhaar identity later on. Given its benefits in education, healthcare, and government schemes, obtaining a Blue Aadhaar Card is a wise decision for parents. Remember to keep your child’s Aadhaar updated post-5 years to ensure uninterrupted access to services.

The information provided in this article is based on guidelines issued by UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) and is meant for general informational purposes. Please verify from the official UIDAI website or visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra for the most updated procedures.