If you have seen posts saying “Aadhaar update is free until September 30”, do not assume every Aadhaar change is free. UIDAI’s current offer is specifically aimed at Mandatory Biometric Update for children.
Who gets the September 30 benefit?
UIDAI is currently advertising Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) as free of cost for children aged 5–17 years until September 30, 2026.
The temporary waiver is particularly relevant to children aged 7–15. UIDAI’s normal fee structure already provides free mandatory biometric updates when done once between ages 5–7 and once between ages 15–17.
What is a Mandatory Biometric Update?
Children enrolled for Aadhaar need fresh biometric information as they grow. UIDAI says that when a child reaches age 5, biometric data including photograph, fingerprints and iris scans are recorded. Another mandatory biometric update is required after the Aadhaar holder reaches age 15.
Why September 30 matters
UIDAI waived the charge for the first mandatory biometric update for children aged 7–15 for a one-year period beginning October 1, 2025. That waiver runs through September 30, 2026.
Does this mean every Aadhaar update is free?
No. UIDAI’s current service-charge information distinguishes biometric updates from demographic and document updates. For example, a separate demographic update can carry a fee, while UIDAI’s portal currently lists online POI/POA document update as free for a longer period.
So a headline that simply says “all Aadhaar updates are free” would be misleading.
Where is MBU done?
UIDAI says the Aadhaar holder needs to visit an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre for Mandatory Biometric Update. Parents or guardians should use the official UIDAI tools to locate a centre and check current instructions before visiting.
What parents should do now
If a child in the 5–17 age range has a pending biometric update, check the Aadhaar record and use UIDAI’s official website or Aadhaar Seva Kendra information. Families whose children are in the temporary waiver group should avoid waiting until the final days of September.
Featured image is an AI-generated editorial illustration used for representational purposes.
