The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is a game-changing government scheme that provides free health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 Lakhs per family, per year. If you are eligible, having the Ayushman Card (also known as the Golden Card) in your pocket ensures you and your family are protected during medical emergencies at thousands of private and government hospitals across India.
In 2026, the government has made the download process fully digital and paperless. Whether you are using a mobile phone or a computer, here is the complete, step-by-step guide to downloading your Ayushman Card in just a few minutes.
📋 Required Documents for Ayushman Card Download
Before you begin the download process, keep the following details and documents handy to ensure a smooth verification process:
- Aadhaar Card: Mandatory for identity verification.
- Aadhaar-Linked Mobile Number: You will need this to receive the OTP for login and e-KYC.
- Ration Card / Family ID: Needed if your Aadhaar is not yet linked to the PMJAY database.
- PMJAY Reference Number: (Optional) If you have already applied and have an active ID.
💻 Method 1: Download via NHA Beneficiary Portal (Computer/Laptop)
This is the fastest method if you are applying from a desktop browser.
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official National Health Authority (NHA) beneficiary website:
beneficiary.nha.gov.in. - Login as Beneficiary: On the homepage, select the “Beneficiary” login option.
- Enter Mobile Number: Type your registered mobile number, select the authentication mode (OTP), and enter the OTP received on your phone.
- Search Your Details: Once logged in, select your State, Scheme (PMJAY), District, and choose your “Search By” method (Aadhaar Number is the most reliable).
- Verify e-KYC: If your name appears on the list, look at the “Card Status”. If it says Approved, click on the download icon next to your name. You will need to verify your Aadhaar via OTP one last time.
- Download PDF: Your Ayushman Golden Card will immediately download to your device in PDF format. You can print this and laminate it for physical use!
📱 Method 2: Download via the Official Ayushman App (Mobile)
If you prefer using your smartphone, the official application makes it incredibly simple to generate and download cards for your whole family.
- Install the App: Download the official “Ayushman App” (by National Health Authority) from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Open & Login: Open the app, select your preferred language, and log in as a “Beneficiary” using your mobile number and OTP.
- Find Your Profile: Enter your State, District, and Aadhaar number to pull up your family’s PM-JAY profile.
- Complete Authentication: Tap on the name of the family member whose card you want to download. You will be prompted to do a quick Aadhaar OTP or face authentication.
- Save to Phone: Click the “Download Card” button. The high-resolution PDF will be saved directly to your phone’s gallery or files.
🏛️ Method 3: Download Offline via CSC Centers
If you are not comfortable using online portals or do not have an Aadhaar-linked mobile number, you can get your card offline:
- Locate your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
- Take your Aadhaar Card, Ration Card, and an active mobile number to the center.
- The CSC operator will verify your details using their biometric fingerprint scanner.
- They will instantly download and print your physical Ayushman Card for a nominal fee (usually ₹30).
👴 2026 Major Update: Ayushman Vay Vandana Card (70+ Years)
A massive update for 2026 is the expansion of the scheme to senior citizens. Every Indian citizen aged 70 years and above is now eligible for free hospital treatment through the specialized Ayushman Vay Vandana Card, regardless of their income level! The application and download process for this specific card is identical to the steps mentioned above via the Ayushman App.
| PMJAY Scheme Quick Facts | Details |
| Annual Coverage Limit | ₹5,00,000 per family |
| Official Website | beneficiary.nha.gov.in |
| Download Fee | 100% Free (Online) |
| Toll-Free Helpline | 14555 or 1800-111-565 |