How To Apply For E-Shram Card Online (2026 Guide)

If you are a worker in the unorganized sector in India, applying for the E-Shram Card can help you access multiple government welfare benefits. In this detailed guide, you will learn how to apply for E-Shram Card online, eligibility criteria, required documents, benefits, registration steps, and important updates for 2026.

What Is E-Shram Card?

The E-Shram Card is a government initiative launched by the Ministry of Labour and Employment under the Government of India.

It provides a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN) to workers in the unorganized sector and creates a national database for social security schemes.

The scheme was officially launched in August 2021 and continues to benefit crores of workers across India.

Objectives of E-Shram Portal

The E-Shram Portal was created to:

• Build a national database of unorganized workers
• Provide social security benefits
• Offer accident insurance coverage
• Enable direct benefit transfer (DBT)
• Track migrant and informal workers

Who Can Apply for E-Shram Card?

You can apply if you:

• Are between 16 to 59 years
• Work in the unorganized sector
• Are not a member of EPFO/ESIC
• Do not pay income tax

Eligible Workers Include:

• Construction workers
• Agricultural laborers
• Street vendors
• Domestic workers
• ASHA workers
• Gig and platform workers
• Small farmers
• Rickshaw pullers
• Fishermen
• Shop workers

If you are self-employed or daily wage worker, you are eligible.

Documents Required for E-Shram Card Registration

To apply online, you need:

1. Aadhaar Card
2. Aadhaar-linked mobile number
3. Bank account details
4. IFSC code
5. Occupation details

No fees are charged for self-registration.

Benefits of E-Shram Card

Here are the major benefits:

1. Accident Insurance Cover

Under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, registered workers get:

• ₹2 lakh for accidental death/permanent disability
• ₹1 lakh for partial disability

2. Access to Government Schemes

Workers may benefit from schemes like:

• Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
• Ayushman Bharat
• Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana

3. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

In times of crisis (like COVID-19), the government may transfer financial assistance directly into registered workers’ bank accounts.

4. National Database Creation

Helps the government design better policies for migrant and informal workers.

How To Apply For E-Shram Card Online (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Visit Official Website

Go to the official portal of the E-Shram Portal.

Step 2: Click on “Register on e-Shram”

Choose “Self Registration”.

Step 3: Enter Aadhaar Details

• Enter Aadhaar number
• Enter captcha
• Select “Yes” for EPFO/ESIC status
• Click Send OTP

Step 4: OTP Verification

Enter OTP received on Aadhaar-linked mobile number.

Step 5: Fill Personal Details

• Name
• Address
• Educational qualification
• Occupation
• Skill type

Step 6: Enter Bank Details

Provide bank account number and IFSC code.

Step 7: Submit Application

After reviewing details, submit the form.

Step 8: Download E-Shram Card

You will receive a 12-digit UAN number. Download and print your E-Shram card.

How To Download E-Shram Card PDF?

1. Visit official portal
2. Click on “Already Registered”
3. Enter UAN number
4. Verify via OTP
5. Download card PDF

E-Shram Card Registration Through CSC

If you don’t have an Aadhaar-linked mobile number, visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).

They will complete registration for a nominal service charge.

Common Problems & Solutions

OTP Not Received?

• Ensure Aadhaar mobile number is active
• Try again after some time

Wrong Details Entered?

You can update details by logging into the portal using UAN.

Bank Details Error?

Make sure IFSC and account number are correct before submission.

E-Shram Card Helpline Number

For support, contact:

• Toll-Free Number: 14434
• Visit nearest CSC

Is E-Shram Card Mandatory?

No, it is not mandatory. However, registering increases chances of receiving government benefits.

E-Shram Card vs Labour Card

Many people confuse E-Shram Card with State Labour Card.

Feature	E-Shram Card	Labour Card
Issued By	Central Government	State Government
Coverage	Nationwide	State-specific
UAN Number	Yes	No
Insurance	₹2 Lakh	Depends on state

Latest Updates for 2026

• Government expanding database for gig workers
• Possible new financial assistance scheme
• Increased awareness drives in rural areas
• Integration with additional welfare schemes

Stay updated through the official portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is E-Shram registration free?

Yes, self-registration is completely free.

2. Can students apply?

Only if they work in the unorganized sector.

3. Is there any monthly payment?

No mandatory payment required for basic registration.

4. Can I update mobile number?

Yes, via Aadhaar update process.

5. How long does it take?

Registration takes 5–10 minutes.

Why Every Unorganized Worker Should Apply

The E-Shram Card acts as:

• Identity proof for workers
• Gateway to social security
• Insurance coverage protection
• Future pension eligibility

With increasing digital governance in India, registering ensures you don’t miss future welfare schemes.

Conclusion

The E-Shram Card is one of the most important social security initiatives for India’s unorganized workforce. If you are eligible, apply today through the official E-Shram portal and secure benefits like insurance, DBT support, and access to multiple government schemes.

Don’t delay—complete your E-Shram Card registration online and download your UAN card now.