The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) offers health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year. To access these benefits, beneficiaries must have an Ayushman card. If you are eligible but don’t yet have the card, the good news is that it can be downloaded online using both free and paid methods.
This article explains all official and practical ways to download your Ayushman card online, the requirements for each method, and which option is best for you.
What Is an Ayushman Card and Why You Need It
The Ayushman card is a digital identity issued to PM-JAY beneficiaries. It contains a unique beneficiary ID and QR code that hospitals use to verify eligibility. Although treatment can sometimes be availed using Aadhaar, having the card speeds up admission, claim approval, and cashless treatment.
Free Methods to Download Ayushman Card Online
Free methods are provided directly by the government and do not require any payment.
1.Download Ayushman Card from Official PM-JAY Website
This is the most reliable and widely used method.
Steps:
- Visit the official Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY portal
- Click on “Beneficiary Login”
- Enter your registered mobile number
- Verify using OTP
- Search using Aadhaar number, ration card, or family ID
- Select the beneficiary and download the card
This method is completely free and works best when your Aadhaar is linked to your mobile number.
2. Download Ayushman Card Using Aadhaar OTP Verification
If you don’t know your beneficiary ID, Aadhaar-based search is helpful.
Key points:
- Aadhaar must be linked with PM-JAY database
- OTP verification ensures secure access
- Card is available instantly in PDF format
This method is ideal for users who have misplaced their physical card.
3. Download Ayushman Card via Ayushman App
Some states provide access through the official Ayushman or PM-JAY mobile app.
Benefits:
- Mobile-friendly interface
- Easy OTP verification
- Direct download to smartphone
Availability may vary by state, but it is free wherever supported.
Paid Methods to Download Ayushman Card Online
Paid methods are optional and mainly for users who need assistance or lack digital access.
4. Download Ayushman Card Through Common Service Center (CSC)
CSCs are government-authorised service points.
Process:
- Visit a nearby CSC
- Provide Aadhaar or ration card
- Complete biometric verification
- CSC operator downloads and prints the card
A small service charge may be applied, depending on location.
5. Download Ayushman Card via Private Online Agents
Some private websites and agents offer Ayushman card services.
Important notes:
- Fees vary from ₹50 to ₹200
- Use only if you cannot access official methods
- Always verify that the card is genuine
Government recommends using official portals or CSCs to avoid fraud.
Overview Table: Ayushman Card Download Methods
| Method | Cost | Verification Required | Time Taken | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PM-JAY Official Website | Free | OTP via mobile | 5–10 minutes | Quick self-download |
| Aadhaar-Based Search | Free | Aadhaar OTP | Instant | Lost card recovery |
| Ayushman Mobile App | Free | OTP verification | Few minutes | Smartphone users |
| Common Service Center | Paid | Biometric | 10–20 minutes | Offline assistance |
| Private Agents | Paid | Varies | Depends on agent | Limited digital access |
Documents Required to Download Ayushman Card
To avoid delays, keep the following ready:
- Aadhaar card
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar
- Ration card or family ID (if available)
Biometric verification may be required for CSC-based downloads.
Common Issues While Downloading Ayushman Card
Some users face minor issues during the process.
- OTP not received due to inactive mobile number
- Aadhaar not linked with PM-JAY database
- Name mismatch between Aadhaar and SECC data
- Technical errors on portal during peak hours
Most issues can be resolved by visiting a CSC or calling the official helpline.
Important Tips to Download Ayushman Card Safely
- Always use official government portals
- Avoid sharing Aadhaar details with unknown agents
- Save a digital copy of the card on your phone
- Print and laminate the card for long-term use
Final Thoughts
Downloading an Ayushman card online is a simple process when you choose the right method. Free options like the PM-JAY website and Aadhaar-based verification are the best and safest ways for most users. Paid methods such as CSCs are useful for those who need assistance or lack digital access.
Once downloaded, your Ayushman card unlocks access to quality healthcare without financial stress, making it one of the most valuable documents for eligible families.
One-Line FAQs
- Is downloading Ayushman card online completely free?
Yes, official government portals allow free card download. - Can I download Ayushman card without a registered mobile number?
Yes, you can use biometric verification at a CSC. - Is a printed Ayushman card mandatory for hospital treatment?
No, hospitals can verify eligibility digitally using Aadhaar.