Labour Card (e-Shram Card): India’s workforce plays a vital role in the country’s economic growth. To recognise, register and support workers in the unorganised sector, the Government of India has launched the e-Shram Card – also known as Labour Card. In 2026, the registration process has become more convenient and accessible, empowering millions of workers to benefit from social security schemes and financial assistance programmes.
What is the e-Shram Card?
The e-Shram Card is a unique identity card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment to workers in the unorganised sector. It contains the personal and professional details of workers in a centralised national database. Once registered, workers receive a 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN), which allows them to access a range of government benefits and employment-related assistance schemes.
Objectives of Labour Card 2026
The primary objective of the e-Shram initiative is to create a comprehensive National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW). This database helps the government in planning, implementing and monitoring welfare schemes for unorganised sector workers, especially during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who can apply for the e-Shram Card in 2026?
Any worker in the unorganised sector between the ages of 16 and 59 can Labour Card online. The general eligible categories include:
- Construction workers
- Street vendors
- Domestic workers
- Rickshaw pullers
- ASHA and Anganwadi workers
- Agricultural workers
- Migrant workers
- Bidi workers
- Fishermen
- Home-based and self-employed workers
Eligibility criteria for e-Shram Card in 2026
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- The age should be between 16 and 59 years.
- Should not be a member of EPFO/ESIC or an income tax payer.
- Must be employed in the unorganised sector.
Documents required for Labour Card application
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook or bank account details
- Mobile number linked to Aadhaar
- Profession details
- Address proof (if not printed on Aadhaar)
Key features and benefits of the e-Shram Card
Registration for e-Shram Card Benefits offers a variety of benefits, such as:
- 12-digit Universal Account Number (UAN) valid across India
- Accident insurance cover of up to â‚ą2 lakh under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
- Access to multiple government welfare schemes and subsidies
- Financial assistance in times of emergency or natural calamity
- Employment and skill development support through centralised information
- Priority access to pension, maternity benefits and housing programs
How to apply for a Labour Card online (Step-by-step guide)
Applying for the e-Shram Card Apply Online in 2026 is easy and can be completed in minutes using an Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Follow the steps below to register successfully:
- Visit the official portal: Open the E-Shram website eshram.gov.in or click on the button below.
- Select “Register on E-Shram”: On the homepage, click on the “Register on E-Shram” option under the login section.
- Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number: Provide your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and fill the captcha code.
- Receive and enter OTP: Click on “Send OTP” and enter the code received on your phone.
- Provide Aadhaar details: Enter your Aadhaar number and consent to data sharing.
- Fill in personal details: Enter your name, date of birth, gender, marital status, and address.
- Add professional information: Choose your job category and type of work (e.g., construction, vending, household work).
- Add education and skills: Enter your education level and any technical skills or certifications.
- Enter Bank Details: Provide your bank account number, IFSC code and bank name for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- Upload Photo (if required): Some applicants may be asked to upload a recent photo.
- Submit Application: Review all the details and click on “Submit”.
- Download e-Shram Card: After successful registration, you will receive a 12-digit UAN and can download your e-Shram Card instantly.
Before applying, make sure that your mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar, as OTP verification is mandatory. If it is not linked, visit your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra to update your mobile number.
How to Apply for Labour Card Offline (Through CSC Centre)
If you are unable to apply online, you can easily register for Labour Card Apply Online by visiting your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC):
- Carry your Aadhaar card and bank account details.
- Provide your mobile number and occupation details to the CSC operator.
- The CSC operator will fill the e-Shram application form on your behalf.
- After successful verification, you will receive your e-Shram Card.
How to Download e-Shram Card PDF Online
- Visit the official portal: eshram.gov.in.
- Click on “Update Profile / Download UAN Card”.
- Log in using your registered mobile number and OTP.
- Click on “Download UAN Card”.
- Your e-Shram Card will be downloaded in PDF format.
How to Update Labour Card Details
You can easily update your registered information, such as mobile number, address, occupation, or bank details, by following these steps:
- Visit the official e-Shram portal.
- Click on “Update Profile”.
- Log in using your mobile number and OTP.
- Make the necessary changes and save your updated information.
How to Check Labour Card Status
e-Shram Card Status Check is active:
- Visit eshram.gov.in.
- Click on “Update Profile / Download UAN Card”.
- Log in with your registered mobile number and check your registration status.
- Validity and Renewal of e-Shram Card
The e-Shram Card issued in 2026 is valid for an indefinite period. However, workers should update their information regularly to avail the benefits of government facilities and welfare schemes.
Impact of e-Shram Card on Worker Welfare
Since its launch, the e-Shram Card has vastly expanded social welfare coverage for workers in the unorganised sector. It has enabled targeted relief distribution, accident insurance coverage and employment matching services. With over 28 crore workers registered by 2024, the e-Shram portal has become the cornerstone of India’s social security framework.
e-Shram Helpline and Assistance
Toll-free Number: 14434
Email: helpdesk.eshram@gov.in
Help Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is there any fee to apply for the e-Shram Card?
No, applying for the e-Shram Card is completely free. - Can government or private sector employees apply?
No. Only unorganised sector workers who are not members of EPFO ​​or ESIC can apply. - Is it mandatory to have an e-Shram Card?
Although it is not mandatory, having an e-Shram Card provides various government welfare benefits; hence, it is highly recommended. - Can I register without an Aadhaar-linked mobile number?
No. OTP verification is mandatory during registration; hence, it is necessary to link your mobile number with your Aadhaar. - What should I do if I lose my e-Shram Card?
You can easily download it again from the official e-Shram portal by logging in with your registered mobile number.
Conclusion
Labour Card 2025, also known as e-Shram Card, is a major step by the Government of India to bring unorganised workers under a structured social security system. Whether you are a daily wage earner, self-employed vendor, domestic worker, or agricultural labourer, registering for an e-Shram Card 2025 ensures access to important welfare schemes, financial assistance, and social security. Take advantage of this initiative and secure your future today.
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