
In India, millions of workers lack formal records. The government started the e Shram Card to help them. It creates a national database for unorganized workers. This guide explains every detail for 2025. You will learn what the card is, who can apply, how to register, and how to use its benefits.
What Is the e Shram Card?
The e Shram Card is a digital identity for unorganized sector workers. It is managed by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The card issues a unique 12‑digit Universal Account Number (UAN) to each registrant. This number links they to social security schemes. It helps track benefits such as pensions and insurance. No renewal is needed; it is valid for life.
Why the e Shram Card Matters
- Inclusion
Many informal workers miss out on welfare. The card brings them into the system. - Data-Driven Support
Government schemes can target real needs. Accurate data ensures better planning. - Financial Security
Access to pensions, insurance, and emergency funds. This brings stability. - Ease of Access
Registration is free and simple. You can apply online or at local centers.
Understanding Unorganized Workers
Who Qualifies?
Unorganized workers include:
- Home-based workers, like tailors or artisans.
- Daily wage laborers in construction or agriculture.
- Self-employed persons without formal company ties.
- Platform workers for apps like Ola, Uber, or Zomato who lack formal contracts.
What Is the Unorganized Sector?
The unorganized sector covers:
- Small establishments with fewer than ten employees.
- Enterprises outside the ESIC or EPFO system.
- Activities like street vending, domestic help, and small workshops.
Eligibility Criteria
To register, you must meet all criteria:
- Age: Between 16 and 59 years.
- Work: Active in the unorganized sector.
- Tax Status: Not an income‑tax payer.
- Education: No minimum qualification needed.
Special groups like landless farmers and agricultural laborers also qualify.
Key Benefits of the e Shram Card
- UAN Number
Your permanent 12‑digit ID. - Social Security Access
Schemes include:- Pension: ₹3,000 per month after age 60.
- Insurance:
- Death benefit: ₹2 lakh
- Partial disability: ₹1 lakh
- Emergency Assistance
One‑time financial help during crises, such as health emergencies or disasters. - Scheme Linkage
Automatic enrollment in schemes like Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan.
Required Documents
You need only:
- Aadhaar Card
- Mobile Number linked to Aadhaar
If your mobile is not linked, visit a CSC center for free linking. No proof of age, income, or education is required.
How to Apply Online 2025
Step-by-Step Online Process
- Open the Portal
Visit the official self‑registration page at <a href=”https://eshram.gov.in” rel=”follow”>e Shram Portal</a>. - Enter Basic Details
- Aadhaar‑linked mobile number
- Captcha code
- Select “NO” for EPFO/ESIC membership
- Click “Send OTP”
- OTP Verification
- Enter received OTP
- Click “Submit”
- Aadhaar Confirmation
- Enter Aadhaar number
- Tick terms and conditions
- Enter second OTP
- Click “Submit”
- Proceed to Form
- Click “Continue to enter other details”
- Personal Details
- Name, gender, family information
- Click “Save and Continue”
- Residential Details
- Address, pin code
- Click “Save and Continue”
- Education Section
- Select highest qualification
- Click “Save and Continue”
- Occupational Details
- Answer if you work on digital platforms
- Choose primary and secondary occupations from NCO codes
- Enter years of experience
- Click “Save and Continue”
- Bank Details & Declaration
- Enter bank account details
- Agree to self‑declaration
- Preview & Confirm
- Review all entries
- Tick confirmation box
- Click “Submit”
- Final OTP
- Enter final OTP sent to your mobile
- Click “Submit”
- Download Your Card
- Click “Download UAN Card”
- Save the PDF file
Important Registration Points
- Free of cost—no hidden fees.
- Open year‑round, 24/7.
- Single registration, no renewal.
- Support available through helpdesk and CSC centers.
Registration via CSC Center
- Visit your nearest CSC center.
- Carry:
- Aadhaar card
- Linked mobile phone
- Bank passbook (for bank details)
- The operator fills in the form.
- After OTP verification, you receive your UAN.
- Collect your printed e Shram Card if available.
- Registration is free.
Checking Your Card Status
To track your application:
- Go to the portal.
- Click “Register with e Shram.”
- Enter mobile, captcha, and click “Send OTP.”
- Enter OTP and submit.
- Input Aadhaar number, agree, and submit.
- If registered, you see a confirmation message.
No documents needed to check status.
Downloading Your Card PDF
By Aadhaar and Mobile
- Visit the portal.
- Under “Already Registered,” click “Update.”
- Select “Update Profile using Aadhaar.”
- Enter mobile number and captcha.
- Click “Send OTP,” enter OTP, and submit.
- Input Aadhaar number and choose OTP option.
- Enter captcha and submit.
- Validate with OTP.
- Click “Download UAN Card.”
- Save the PDF.
By UAN Number
- Go to https://eshram.gov.in./
- Under “Already Registered,” click “Update.”
- Enter UAN, birth date, and captcha.
- Click “Generate OTP,” enter OTP, and validate.
- Click “Download UAN Card.”
- Save the PDF.
Tip: Save a backup of the PDF. For issues, call the helpline.
Checking Your e Shram Card Balance
Under certain government support schemes, you may receive funds. To check:
- Visit the designated site (e.g., upssb.in).
- Enter mobile number and click “Find.”
- View payment status and date.
- Note down reference or take a screenshot.
Learn more at https://eshram-card.info
Checking and Downloading the e Shram Card List
Each year, the government releases a list of registered workers. To access:
- Visit the official portal.
- Click “e Shram Data Access.”
- Enter filters: state, district, gender, age, employment details.
- Click “Preview and Download.”
- Locate your name.
- Click “Download.”
- Log in with mobile and password (or register if new).
- Save or print the list as needed.
Updating Your Information
You can update any of these fields at any time:
- Mobile number
- Address
- Job details
- Education level
- Skills
How to Update:
- Online: Follow the download steps, then update the form fields before the final preview.
- CSC Center: Provide new information and verify via OTP.
- Photo Changes: Only via Aadhaar re‑KYC at CSC.
Technical Support
If you face issues, use these channels:
- Helpline Numbers: 14434 | 1800‑889‑6811
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (all days)
- Online Complaints: gms.eshram.gov.in
- CSC Locator: findmycsc.nic.in/csc
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the e Shram Card?
A: A digital identity for unorganized workers. It links you to social security schemes.
Q: Who is eligible?
A: Any unorganized sector worker aged 16–59, not in ESIC/EPFO.
Q: What documents are needed?
A: Only Aadhaar card and linked mobile.
Q: Are there any charges?
A: No, registration is entirely free.
Q: Does the card expire?
A: No, it is valid lifelong.
Q: How do I check my status?
A: Use your Aadhaar number and linked mobile on the portal.
Q: Where can I get help?
A: Call 14434 or 1800‑889‑6811, or visit your nearest CSC.
For official registration and more details, visit eshram.gov.in. e Shram Portal. or go to https://eshram-card.info.