How to register for EPF and ESI as an employer (2026 step-by-step)

EPF and ESI registration are mandatory once you cross the employee threshold. The portals look intimidating but each one is a 30-minute filing if you have documents ready.

Step 1: Check eligibility thresholds

EPF: mandatory at 20+ employees. Voluntary below. ESI: mandatory at 10+ employees (some states 20) for employees earning < ₹21,000/month gross. Both apply only to operating units, not registered offices.

Step 2: Gather documents

Establishment PAN, GST certificate, Shops & Establishment / Factories Licence, Cancelled cheque, MOA + AOA for companies, Partnership deed for partnerships, Aadhaar of authorised signatory, photograph, board resolution.

Step 3: EPF registration on EPFO portal

epfindia.gov.in → Establishment Registration → Sign Up. Fill establishment details, owner KYC, business activity. Upload documents. Submit. Get establishment code in 5-7 days.

Step 4: ESI registration on ESIC portal

esic.in → Sign Up → Employer Registration. Same documents. ESIC code issued in 5-7 days. After approval, enrol each eligible employee individually.

Step 5: Add each employee

EPF: collect employee UAN (or auto-generate first time). Submit Form 5 monthly for new joinees. ESI: register each employee, get IP number, issue ESI card.

Step 6: Pay monthly contributions

EPF: by 15th of next month via EPFO portal. ESI: by 15th of next month via ESIC portal. Both accept netbanking. Late payment = 12-25% per annum interest + penalty.

Step 7: File monthly + annual returns

EPF: Monthly ECR (Electronic Challan-cum-Return). ESI: Half-yearly return. EPF Annual Return Form 3A + Form 6A by 30th April.

Frequently asked questions