How to Apply for a New Aadhaar Card in 2025 | Step-by-Step Guide for Online & Offline Registration

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The Aadhaar Card, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is a 12-digit biometric identity number that serves as proof of residence and identity for Indian residents. It is indispensable for accessing government services, opening bank accounts, filing taxes, and availing subsidies. With the UIDAI’s continuous efforts to streamline processes, applying for a new Aadhaar card has become simpler than ever. This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for a new Aadhaar card in 2025, covering eligibility, required documents, online/offline processes, and recent updates.

Why is an Aadhaar Card Important?

  1. Universal Identity: Accepted nationwide as valid proof of identity and address.
  2. Government Schemes: Mandatory for subsidies under PM-KISAN, LPG connections, and Ayushman Bharat.
  3. Financial Transactions: Required for opening bank accounts, PAN card linkage, and tax filings.
  4. Digital Convenience: Enables e-KYC, e-Sign, and paperless verification for services.

Eligibility Criteria for Aadhaar Card 2025

  • Residency: Any Indian resident (including newborns and senior citizens).
  • NRIs: Eligible if they have resided in India for 182+ days in the preceding year.
  • Minors: Parents/guardians can apply on behalf of children (biometrics updated at age 5 and 15).
  • Foreigners: Not eligible unless they qualify as Indian residents.

Documents Required for Aadhaar Enrollment

You need to submit Proof of Identity (POI) and Proof of Address (POA). UIDAI accepts over 30 documents, including:

Identity Proof:

  • Passport
  • PAN Card
  • Voter ID
  • Driving License
  • Ration Card

Address Proof:

  • Electricity/Water Bill
  • Bank Statement
  • Rent Agreement
  • Property Tax Receipt

Date of Birth Proof (Optional):

  • Birth Certificate
  • School Certificate
  • Passport

Note:

  • Documents must be original (no photocopies) for offline enrollment.
  • For children under 5, only the parent’s Aadhaar and birth certificate are required.

How to Apply for a New Aadhaar Card Online in 2025

While Aadhaar enrollment requires an in-person visit for biometrics, you can pre-fill the application online to save time:

Step 1: Pre-Register Online

  1. Visit the UIDAI Pre-Registration Portal: https://appointments.uidai.gov.in.
  2. Click “Book an Appointment” and select your state/district.
  3. Fill in personal details (name, gender, mobile number).
  4. Choose a nearby Aadhaar Enrollment Center and schedule an appointment.

Step 2: Visit the Enrollment Center

  1. Carry original documents (POI, POA, and birth certificate if applicable).
  2. Provide biometric data (fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph).
  3. Fill the enrollment form with the executive’s assistance.

Step 3: Collect Acknowledgment Slip

  • The slip contains a 14-digit Enrollment Number (EID) to track your Aadhaar status.

How to Apply for Aadhaar Card Offline in 2025

  1. Locate an Enrollment Center:
  2. Visit the Center:
    • Submit original documents and complete the enrollment form.
  3. Biometric Capture:
    • Fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph will be taken.
  4. Acknowledgment Slip:
    • Keep it safe to track your application and download e-Aadhaar.

How to Download e-Aadhaar

  1. Visit https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in.
  2. Enter your Enrollment Number (EID) or Aadhaar number.
  3. Enter the security code and request an OTP.
  4. Download the password-protected PDF (Password: First 4 letters of your name in CAPS + YYYY of birth year).

Track Aadhaar Status

  1. Online:
  2. SMS:
    • Send UID STATUS <14-digit EID> to 51969.
  3. Postal Delivery:
    • The physical card is dispatched within 90 days of enrollment.

Common Issues & Solutions

  1. Biometric Mismatch:
    • Revisit the enrollment center for re-verification.
  2. Incorrect Details on Aadhaar:
    • Update via the UIDAI portal using the “Update Aadhaar” service.
  3. Lost Enrollment Slip:
    • Retrieve EID via SMS: Send GETEID <Last 4 digits of Aadhaar> to 51969.
  4. OTP Not Received:
    • Ensure your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar. Update via UIDAI Portal.

FAQs About Aadhaar Card 2025

Q1. Can NRIs apply for Aadhaar?
Ans: Yes, if they’ve stayed in India for 182+ days in the last 12 months.

Q2. Is there an age limit for Aadhaar enrollment?
Ans: No. Newborns can enroll with parental Aadhaar and birth certificates.

Q3. What if my Aadhaar card is lost/damaged?
Ans: Download e-Aadhaar or request a reprint via the UIDAI portal (fee: ₹50).

Q4. How long is Aadhaar valid?
Ans: It is valid for life. Update biometrics every 10 years (optional).

Q5. Can I update my photo in Aadhaar?
Ans: Yes. Visit an enrollment center for a photo update (fee: ₹100).

Recent Updates for 2025

  • Face Authentication: Use facial recognition for Aadhaar verification via the mAadhaar app.
  • Voluntary Biometric Updates: Free updates every 10 years at enrollment centers.
  • Multilingual Support: Aadhaar letters available in 22 Indian languages.
  • AI-Based Verification: Faster processing of enrollment requests.

Tips for a Smooth Application

  1. Verify Documents: Ensure your POI and POA are valid and updated.
  2. Check Biometric Accuracy: Clean hands and remove contact lenses before scans.
  3. Link Mobile Number: Essential for OTP-based services and updates.
  4. Avoid Third-Party Agents: Use only UIDAI-authorized centers.

Conclusion

Applying for a new Aadhaar card in 2025 is a straightforward process, whether you choose online pre-registration or offline enrollment. By following this guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your Aadhaar is linked to essential services. Remember, your Aadhaar is more than an ID—it’s your key to India’s digital ecosystem.

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