The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) has become India’s most powerful health safety net, providing up to ₹5 Lakh in free medical coverage per family. With the new 2026 updates, including the Ayushman Vay Vandana for senior citizens, the application process has shifted entirely online.
In this guide, we break down the Ayushman Bharat application process, eligibility criteria, and how to download your card in minutes.
Quick Summary: Ayushman Bharat 2026
Feature
Details
Coverage Amount
₹5,00,000 per family/year
New 2026 Update
70+ Senior Citizens included (regardless of income)
Official Portal
beneficiary.nha.gov.in
Hospital Network
29,000+ Empanelled Hospitals (Govt & Private)
1. Who is Eligible for Ayushman Card in 2026?
The eligibility is no longer just for the SECC 2011 list; it now includes:
Low-Income Families: Those identified in the rural/urban deprivation categories.
Senior Citizens (70+): Under the 2026 Vay Vandana Scheme, all seniors above 70 get a dedicated ₹5 Lakh cover.
ASHA & Anganwadi Workers: Now automatically eligible for the PM-JAY benefits.
Construction Workers: Registered with State Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) boards.
2. Documents Required for Ayushman Bharat Registration
Before starting your Ayushman Bharat online apply process, keep these digital copies ready:
Aadhaar Card (Linked to your mobile number for OTP).
Ration Card (Family ID).
Active Mobile Number.
Income/Caste Certificate (Only if applying under specific quotas).
3. Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Ayushman Card Online (2026)
The National Health Authority (NHA) has simplified the “Self-Registration” portal. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Beneficiary Portal
Go to the official website: beneficiary.nha.gov.in. Select the “Beneficiary” login option.
Step 2: Authenticate with OTP
Enter your mobile number and the Captcha code. You will receive an Aadhaar-based OTP. Verify this to enter the dashboard.
Step 3: Search for Your Name
Select your State, Scheme (PMJAY), and District. You can search by Aadhaar Number, Ration Card (Family ID), or Name.
Step 4: Complete E-KYC
If your name appears, click on the “Action” button to start E-KYC. You will need to take a live photo or upload a recent one and verify again with an OTP.
Step 5: Download Ayushman Card
Once verified (usually takes 15-20 minutes), your status will change to “Approved.” Click the download icon to save your Ayushman Bharat Golden Card as a PDF.
4. Benefits of the Ayushman Bharat Card
Why is this card essential for every Indian family?
Cashless Treatment: No need to pay cash at ICU, Surgery, or Diagnostics.
Pre-existing Diseases: Covered from Day 1 (unlike many private medical insurance plans).
Post-Hospitalization: Medicines and check-ups covered for up to 15 days after discharge.
Pan-India Access: Use your card in any empanelled hospital from Delhi to Kerala.
5. How to Find Empanelled Private Hospitals Near Me?
One of the biggest advantages is getting treated at top-tier private hospitals. To find a list:
Filter by “Specialty” (e.g., Cardiology, Oncology).
Look for hospitals with the “Ayushman Mitra” helpdesk.
Final Verdict for 2026
The Ayushman Bharat scheme is a revolutionary step toward Universal Health Coverage. Whether you are a senior citizen or a worker, having this card can save you from massive medical debts.
