ABHA Card Eligibility: Criteria and Required Documents

Posted on: Dec 24, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

ABHA Card Eligibility: Criteria and Required Documents

When we go to the doctor, the one question we get asked is about our medical history. While we may remember most of what we had braved during our previous treatment, we may not recall all the details. But there is a simple solution for that — the digitalisation of personal medical records. Say hello to the government-launched personal digital health identification account called the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA). But is everyone eligible to get one? Well, let’s learn if you meet the ABHA Card eligibility criteria and discover everything you need to know about this unique card.

Eligibility Criteria for an ABHA Card

For ABHA card eligibility, the applicant must fulfil the below criteria –

1. Applicant must be an Indian citizen

2. Must be between 16- 59 years old

3. Must have an Aadhaar number for ABHA registration

4. All castes, including general, SC, ST, and OBC categories, are eligible to apply for the scheme

5. The income of the family should not exceed Rs 2.5 lakhs per annum.

Paperwork Needed in Order to Apply for an ABHA Card?

While applying for an ABHA card, you need to furnish certain documents. These documents are required for verification and completing the application process. The list of documents include –

1. Aadhaar Card

Your Aadhaar Card serves as proof of identity and residential address; it is mandatory to furnish it. Ensure the Aadhaar Number is linked to your mobile number, as the OTP during registration and verification will be sent to your registered mobile number. You can also provide other documents like a PAN Card, DL, or voter’s card in addition to the Aadhaar number.

2. Caste Certificate

Even though people of all castes are eligible, a caste certificate is still required for documentation.

3. Domicile Certificate

You have to provide a domicile certificate to verify your birthplace.

4. Bank Account Details

You must provide details of the bank account linked to your Aadhaar Card.

5. Medical History

Declare your medical history and current health status.

6. Passport-size photos

Recent photos are required during offline registration.

Difference Between PMJAY and ABHA

PMJAY is a health insurance scheme launched by the Government of India for the economically disadvantaged people of society. Each family can avail health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakhs per year. If you think the coverage is not sufficient because there’s a family history of critical illnesses, it is recommended that you buy critical illness insurance for additional financial security against the rising medical expenses.

ABHA, on the other hand, is a digital health ID that stores your health records securely in one place. ABHA card does not provide health insurance or free medical treatment.

Conclusion

ABHA Card is a 14-digit health ID that securely stores your medical history in digital format. With ABHA ID, you can access your health records, such as doctor consultations, prescriptions, lab reports, etc., anytime and anywhere. However, before you apply for the card, make sure you meet the eligibility for the ABHA Card and provide all the necessary documents for seamless processing of your application.

FAQs on ABHA Card Eligibility Criteria

1. I am an NRI. Can I apply for an ABHA card?

No. Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply for the ABHA card.

2. What is the fee for getting an ABHA card?

There is no fee for getting an ABHA health ID card. It is provided free of cost.

3. What are the mandatory documents while applying for an ABHA card?

An Aadhaar Card is mandatory for your identity and address proof. It should also be linked to your mobile number because the OTP during registration and verification will be sent to your mobile number. In addition to an Aadhaar card, you can submit a PAN Card, voter’s card, or DL.

4. Is there any age limit for getting an ABHA card?

Yes. The applicant must be aged between 16 and 59 years. Age is one of the criteria to be eligible for the health card.

5. Is the ABHA Card restricted to some castes?

No. All castes are eligible – whether you belong to the general category, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, or Other Backward Castes. There is no restriction.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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