What Is the eShram Card & Why Should You Register?
The eShram Card is a government-issued identity card for unorganised workers in India, launched by the Ministry of Labour & Employment. Once registered, workers receive a Universal Account Number (UAN) — a 12-digit portable ID that helps the government deliver welfare benefits, insurance, and social security directly to eligible workers.
Whether you are a daily wage earner, construction worker, street vendor, domestic worker, or agricultural labourer, registering on the eShram portal is free and takes only a few minutes online.
Documents Required Before You Begin
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory — linked to your mobile number)
- Mobile number linked to Aadhaar (for OTP verification)
- Bank account details (account number and IFSC code)
- Optional: IFSC code of your nearest bank branch
Your Aadhaar number must be linked to an active mobile number. If it is not, visit your nearest Aadhaar enrolment centre or bank branch before proceeding.
Step-by-Step: How to Register for eShram Card Online
- Visit the official portal: Open your browser and go to eshram.gov.in. This is the only official government website for eShram registration.
- Click on "Register on eShram": On the homepage, find and click the prominent registration button.
- Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number: Type in the 10-digit mobile number that is registered with your Aadhaar. Enter the CAPTCHA code shown on screen and click "Send OTP".
- Verify with OTP: You will receive a one-time password (OTP) on your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP within the time limit to proceed.
- Enter your Aadhaar number: Provide your 12-digit Aadhaar number. The system will auto-fill some of your details from the UIDAI database.
- Verify personal details: Check your name, date of birth, gender, and address as fetched from Aadhaar. Correct any errors if needed.
- Fill in occupation and income details: Select your type of work (e.g., construction, agriculture, domestic work), and provide your approximate monthly income and working status.
- Enter bank account details: Add your bank account number and IFSC code so that any benefit payments can be directly transferred to you.
- Review and submit: Carefully review all entered information, then click Submit.
- Download your eShram Card: After successful registration, your eShram Card with your UAN number will be generated. Download and save it as a PDF.
How to Register via CSC Centre (Offline Method)
If you don't have internet access or are not comfortable using a smartphone, you can visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC). CSC operators will complete the registration process on your behalf at no charge. To find your nearest CSC, visit locator.csccloud.in.
What Happens After Registration?
Once registered, you will receive:
- A 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN)
- An eShram Card (downloadable as PDF, also available as a physical card)
- Automatic enrolment in PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (accident insurance of up to ₹2 lakh)
Common Registration Errors & How to Fix Them
| Error | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| OTP not received | Mobile not linked to Aadhaar | Update Aadhaar mobile at UIDAI centre |
| Aadhaar authentication failed | Wrong Aadhaar number entered | Double-check and re-enter carefully |
| Already registered message | Previously registered on the portal | Log in using your UAN or registered mobile |
| Bank details not accepted | Incorrect IFSC code | Verify IFSC from your bank passbook |
Final Tips
Registration for eShram is completely free of cost. No agent or middleman should charge you any fee. Always use the official government website eshram.gov.in to avoid fraud.