Baal Aadhaar: Mandatory Biometric Updates &
Fee
Waivers (2025)
The Baal Aadhaar update (Update #4) is critical for parents because a child’s Aadhaar is essentially "provisional" until they reach a certain age. As of December 2025, the UIDAI has introduced significant fee waivers and strict warnings regarding deactivation.
⚠️ Critical Warning
The UIDAI mandates that if the first Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) is not completed by the time the child turns 7 years old, the Aadhaar number will be automatically deactivated.
1 The Dual-Stage Update Rule
Since a child's biometrics (fingerprints and iris) are not fully developed at birth, the "Blue Card" issued to under-5s is linked to the parent’s biometrics. Two updates are mandatory to make it permanent:
- Phase 1 (Age 5 to 7): When a child crosses 5 years, their fingerprints, iris scans, and a fresh facial photograph must be recorded.
- Phase 2 (Age 15 to 17): Once the child reaches 15 years, a second final update is required to capture their adult biometrics.
2 Major 2025 Update: Waiver of Fees
In a "pro-people" move effective from October 1, 2025, the UIDAI has waived all charges for these mandatory updates for one year (until October 2026).
3 How to Complete the Update
Unlike address changes, biometric updates cannot be done online. You carry the child's original Blue Aadhaar Card and a Birth Certificate to an Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
New: Home Enrolment Service
For the first time, you can book an appointment for an official to visit your home for a service charge of ₹700 (plus the update fee, which is currently free for children).
Summary of Important Deadlines
| Child's Age | Action Required | Cost (Till Oct '26) | Risk if Missed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 - 5 Years | New Enrolment (Blue Card) | Free | N/A |
| 5 - 7 Years | MBU-1 (First Update) | Free | Deactivation > Age 7 |
| 7 - 15 Years | Delayed MBU-1 | ₹125 | School Issues |
| 15 - 17 Years | MBU-2 (Final Update) | Free | Invalid for Passport/DL |
Need to Reprint a Child's Card?
Once the update is done, download the new e-Aadhaar and print a durable PVC card for school ID purposes.
Create Child's PVC Card