EPF & ESI Registration Guide

March 15, 2026 ยท 11 min read

EPF ESI

Every employer must register for EPF and ESI if employee strength crosses thresholds. This guide covers registration process and compliance requirements.

EPF Registration

Establishments with 20 or more employees must register under EPF. Registration is voluntary for smaller establishments. Apply through the EPFO portal with establishment details, PAN, and bank account information.

EPF contribution is 12% of wages from both employer and employee. Employer contribution goes to EPF (3.67%), pension scheme (8.33%), and admin charges. Employees can withdraw PF after 2 months of unemployment.

ESI Registration

Factories and establishments with 10 or more employees must register under ESI. Registration is through the ESIC portal. Employees earning below Rs. 21,000 monthly are covered under ESI.

Employee contribution is 0.75% of wages while employer contributes 3.25%. ESI provides medical benefits, sickness benefit, maternity benefit, and disability cover. Employees can claim medical expenses up to Rs. 350 per day for outpatient treatment.

Online Registration Process

Register on the respective portals. For EPF, apply for establishment registration through Form 5A. For ESI, file employer registration application with factory/establishment details, employee count, and address proof.

Both registrations typically complete within 7-15 days. Upon approval, receive employer code numbers. Display registration certificates at the workplace as required by law.

Monthly Compliance

EPF requires monthly ECR filing and contribution payment by the 15th of next month. ESI requires filing monthly contribution return by the 15th. Late payment attracts interest at 12% per annum.