Employees' State Insurance (ESI) is a mandatory social security and health insurance scheme introduced by the Government of India under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948. It provides financial protection and healthcare benefits to employees in case of sickness, maternity, disability, or workplace injuries.
The ESI scheme is funded through contributions from both employers and employees, ensuring affordable medical care and income security for workers and their dependents. Employers with 10 or more employees (20 in some states) are legally required to register under ESIC to provide these benefits and comply with labor laws.
The Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Scheme is one of India's largest social security programs, ensuring that employees in eligible establishments receive medical, monetary, and insurance benefits.
By offering these benefits, the ESI scheme improves job security, enhances workforce productivity, and supports employees' well-being.
The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, responsible for implementing, regulating, and managing the ESI scheme across the country.
With ESIC managing the scheme, registered employees can access free medical care, financial support, and legal protection during employment-related adversities.
The Employees' State Insurance (ESI) scheme is a mandatory social security initiative for specific businesses and employees. Employers and workers must meet certain criteria to be eligible for registration under the scheme. Understanding these requirements ensures compliance and access to essential medical and financial benefits.
ESI registration is mandatory for employers if their establishment meets the following criteria:
Failing to register under ESIC can result in penalties, legal action, and loss of benefits for employees.
To be eligible for ESI benefits, employees must meet the following conditions:
Employees covered under ESI registration receive comprehensive healthcare, sickness benefits, maternity leave, disability compensation, and unemployment support.
Certain establishments and employees may be exempted from ESI registration based on specific conditions:
Employers and employees should verify their eligibility and register with ESIC to avoid compliance issues and gain access to the full benefits of the ESI scheme.
To complete ESI registration, employers must submit the following documents. These ensure compliance with ESIC guidelines and help verify business and employee details.
Required to verify the legal existence of the company. (GST, Shops & Establishment Certificate, Factory License, etc.)
Essential for tax and compliance verification.
Electricity bill, water bill, or rental agreement with NOC if the premises are rented.
Cancelled cheque or bank statement to verify the official business account.
Includes employee name, date of birth, salary details, and joining date.
Required for identity verification and employee registration under ESI.
Confirms the salaries paid to employees to check ESI eligibility.
Needed for authentication in online registration (if applicable).
Required for companies and partnership firms to verify business structure.
A mandatory form filled by employees to confirm ESI enrollment.
Employers must follow a structured process to register under the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Scheme. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensuring a seamless registration procedure.
Go to the official ESIC website
(www.esic.gov.in)
and select ‘Employer Login’.
If you’re a new employer, select ‘Sign Up’ to create an account.
Fill in basic business details such as name, address, type of establishment, and PAN details.
Verify the details and proceed to the next step.
Use your newly created login credentials to access the ‘New Employer Registration’ section.
Enter details like number of employees, wage details, and business category.
Submit scanned copies of essential documents, such as business registration proof, employee details, and bank information.
Calculate the employer and employee contributions (employer: 3.25% and employee: 0.75% of wages).
Make the first ESI contribution online via net banking or other payment methods.
After successful submission and verification, you will receive a 17-digit unique ESIC Registration Number.
This number is used for all future ESI compliance and filings.
Register each employee under the ESI scheme and generate their Employee Insurance Number (IP Number).
Employees can then access ESI benefits using their insurance number.
Employers must contribute a specific percentage of employee wages towards ESI registration and benefits. Below is a breakdown of the costs and expected processing timeline.
Employers must comply with ESI contribution rules and deadlines to ensure seamless benefits for employees while avoiding penalties. Below is a concise breakdown of contribution rates, payment deadlines, and compliance requirements.
Monthly Contribution Payment
Due by the 15th of the following month (e.g., April's contribution is due by May 15th).
Payments are made via the ESIC online portal.
ESI Return Filing
(Half-Yearly)
April - September: Due by November 11th
October - March: Due by May 11th
Employers must submit wage details, contributions paid, and employee information.
Employee Registration & Updates
New employees must be registered within 10 days of joining.
Employers must update any changes (resignations, salary revisions, etc.) on the ESIC portal.
Failure to comply with ESI regulations can lead to:
Employers often face difficulties during the ESI registration process, which can lead to delays or compliance issues. Below are some common challenges and ways to overcome them.
Get your ESI registration completed swiftly with minimal effort. Our streamlined process ensures error-free application submission, reducing delays and making compliance easy for businesses of all sizes.
Avoid common registration mistakes with our expert support. We assist in preparing accurate documentation, verifying employee details, and ensuring compliance with ESIC rules and contribution requirements.
From registration to monthly contributions, we provide ongoing assistance. Stay compliant with timely ESI filings, updates, and advisory support, ensuring your business meets all legal obligations seamlessly.