A detailed guide on all the documents you need for PMJAY and state-specific health scheme registration.
Understanding Document Requirements for Ayushman Bharat
Applying for an Ayushman Card is a simple process, but having the correct documents ready is essential for a smooth experience. The Ayushman Bharat PMJAY scheme is designed to be inclusive, and the documentation process reflects this. The primary goal is to verify two things: **your identity** and **your eligibility**. While the core documents are standard across India, some states with their own integrated health schemes may require specific additional proofs.
This comprehensive guide provides a complete list of all the documents you might need for Ayushman Card registration in 2026, including special documents required for various state health schemes. Before you begin, make sure you know how to apply for the Ayushman card online.
Core Documents Required in All States
Regardless of which state you are in, the following documents are universally required for the e-KYC (Know Your Customer) process, which is mandatory for card generation.
- Aadhaar Card: This is the most crucial document for identity verification. The patient's fingerprint or iris scan will be matched with their Aadhaar data. It is also used for OTP-based verification.
- Mobile Number: A valid mobile number is needed to receive OTPs during the login and e-KYC process on the official portal. It does not necessarily have to be linked to your Aadhaar if you are using biometric verification.
- Proof of Eligibility Document: This is the document that proves your family is entitled to the scheme's benefits. This varies by state and eligibility criteria. The most common eligibility documents are:
- PMJAY Letter: A letter sent by the government to the families identified from the SECC 2011 database.
- Ration Card: This is now the most widely used eligibility document in many states that have expanded the scheme.
State-Specific Documents Required for Integrated Schemes
Many states have integrated PMJAY with their own schemes, expanding eligibility to a larger population. For these, you may need specific state-level documents in addition to the core ones.
Rajasthan (Chiranjeevi Yojana)
The primary document is the Jan Aadhaar Card. The entire family's data is linked to this card, which is used for verification and availing benefits. For families in the paid category, proof of premium payment is also required.
Madhya Pradesh (Ayushman Bharat Niramayam)
In addition to the SECC list, eligibility is extended to families with a Sambal Card or a valid Food Security slip. You must present one of these documents along with your Aadhaar card.
Uttar Pradesh & Bihar
Both states have expanded the scheme to cover specific groups. In UP, families with an Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration card or a registered BOCW (Construction Worker) card are eligible. In Bihar, all ration card holders are now eligible. Your ration card is the key document here.
Gujarat (PMJAY-MA Yojana)
Eligibility is based on income. You will need a valid Income Certificate (showing annual income below the state-defined limit, e.g., ₹4 lakh) and your ration card to enroll under the Mukhyamantri Amrutum (MA) component.
Documents for Adding a New Member
If you need to add a new member to your existing Ayushman-covered family, you will need the following:
- For a Newborn Child: The child's Birth Certificate and the Aadhaar card of one of the parents.
- For a New Spouse (after marriage): The Marriage Certificate and the spouse's Aadhaar card. The spouse will also need to be added to the family's ration card.
The process for using the card is just as important. Learn more about how to use your Ayushman card at the hospital in our detailed guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. My ration card is old. Is it still a valid document for Ayushman Card?
As long as your ration card is active in the government's PDS (Public Distribution System) database, it is considered a valid document for establishing eligibility in states where the scheme is linked to ration cards.
Q. What if there is a spelling mistake in my name on the ration card?
Minor spelling mistakes can usually be rectified during the e-KYC process. However, the details on your Aadhaar card are considered final for the Ayushman Card. Ensure your Aadhaar details are correct.
Q. Do I need to submit photocopies of these documents?
No. The entire Ayushman Card generation process is digital and paperless. You only need to show your original documents for verification at the CSC or hospital kiosk. They will be scanned and uploaded to the system.