The Aadhaar Card has become one of the most essential identity documents for people living in India. From opening a bank account and getting a mobile SIM to enrolling in schools, colleges, and government welfare schemes, Aadhaar is now deeply linked to everyday life. Issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), Aadhaar serves as a unique identity proof based on biometric and demographic data.
However, there is a common misconception that anyone can apply for an Aadhaar card. In reality, UIDAI has laid down clear eligibility conditions. If these rules are not met, Aadhaar cannot be issued. Let us understand in simple terms who is eligible for Aadhaar, who is not, and how the application process works.
Who Is Not Eligible for an Aadhaar Card?
Not everyone can obtain an Aadhaar card. According to UIDAI guidelines, the following individuals are not eligible:
- Foreign nationals living outside India or those who do not have valid proof of residence in India cannot apply for Aadhaar.
- Illegal immigrants or individuals staying in India without lawful permission are also excluded from Aadhaar enrollment.
- If an applicant submits false information or forged documents, the Aadhaar application is rejected. In serious cases, legal action may also be taken.
- Aadhaar cannot be issued after a person’s death. If a cardholder passes away, their Aadhaar number is deactivated and cannot be reissued or transferred.
These rules exist to ensure that Aadhaar remains a reliable and secure identification system and is not misused.
Who Can Apply for an Aadhaar Card?
Any person who is living in India can apply for Aadhaar, regardless of age. This includes:
- Newborn babies
- Children and students
- Adults and senior citizens
There is no minimum or maximum age limit for Aadhaar enrollment. The key eligibility condition is residency. An individual must have stayed in India for at least 182 days (six months) in the last 12 months to be considered a resident for Aadhaar purposes.
Even infants can be enrolled under the Baal Aadhaar scheme, where their Aadhaar is linked to the parents’ Aadhaar numbers. Biometric details are updated later as the child grows.
Aadhaar Enrollment Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The Aadhaar application process is simple and user-friendly if you have the correct documents and meet the eligibility criteria.
- Book an Appointment
Visit the official UIDAI website and book an appointment at your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or authorized enrollment center. - Visit the Aadhaar Center
On the scheduled date, visit the center with valid proof of identity and address. - Biometric Data Collection
Your fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph will be captured. For children below five years, biometrics are not mandatory initially. - Document Verification
Officials verify your submitted documents to confirm your identity and residency. - Acknowledgment Slip
After successful enrollment, you receive an acknowledgment receipt with an enrollment ID, which can be used to track Aadhaar status. - Aadhaar Issuance
The Aadhaar card is usually sent to your registered address within a few weeks. You can also download the e-Aadhaar online once it is generated.
Why Understanding Aadhaar Eligibility Is Important
Applying for Aadhaar without meeting eligibility conditions can lead to rejection, delays, or even legal trouble. With Aadhaar increasingly linked to financial services, subsidies, and official verification, knowing the rules helps avoid unnecessary complications.
Experts also advise applicants to never share incorrect details or rely on unauthorized agents, as UIDAI strictly monitors Aadhaar-related activities.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes only. Aadhaar rules, eligibility criteria, and procedures may change from time to time as per UIDAI guidelines. Before applying, always verify the latest information on the official UIDAI website. The publisher does not take responsibility for decisions made based on this information.
