UIDAI Waives Aadhaar Biometric Fees for This Section

In a significant move aimed at simplifying access to public services, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has waived all charges for Mandatory Biometric Updates (MBUs) for children aged 7 to 15 years. This waiver, effective from 1 October 2025, will remain in force for one year, benefiting nearly 6 crore children across India.

What Are Aadhaar Biometric Updates (MBUs)?

• When a child under five is enrolled for Aadhaar, only basic demographic data (name, date of birth, gender, photo, and address) is collected.
• Biometric data—like fingerprints and iris scans—are not captured at that age due to underdeveloped physical features.

However, biometric updates are mandatory at two later stages,

• First MBU: Between 5 and 7 years
• Second MBU: Between 15 and 17 years

These updates involve capturing a child’s fingerprints, iris scans, and a new photograph to authenticate identity accurately as they grow.

What’s Changed in 2025?

Until now, the first and second MBUs were free only if done within the recommended age window. If delayed beyond that, a fee of ₹125 per update was charged.

With the new decision,

• All children aged 7–15 years can now update Aadhaar biometrics free of cost, even outside the earlier prescribed windows.
• This one-year waiver applies from 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2026.
• This effectively makes biometric updating free for all minors between 5 and 17 years during this period.

Who Should Act

Parents and guardians are strongly advised to update their children’s Aadhaar biometrics if,

• They are above 7 years and haven’t completed the first MBU
• They are above 15 years and haven’t done the second MBU

Updating can be done at Aadhaar Seva Kendras or any authorized Aadhaar enrolment centre.

Key Takeaways

• Policy Effective Date: 1 October 2025
• Valid For: One year
• Age Group Benefited: 7 to 15 years (also covers 5–17 effectively)
• Fee Waived: ₹125 per biometric update
• Purpose: Ease access to Aadhaar-based services for children
• Authority Involved: UIDAI