BUSINESS

EPFO Launches Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025: Benefits for Workers and Employers

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced the Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025 to bring more workers under formal social security coverage. Effective from November 1, 2025, this initiative aims to strengthen India’s workforce by providing EPF benefits and long-term financial security.

What is the Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025?

Announced by the Ministry of Labour and Employment on October 13, 2025, the EPFO Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025 allows employers to enrol eligible employees who were not previously registered under the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF).

Key Highlights of the Scheme:

Applies to workers who joined between July 1, 2017, and October 31, 2025, but were not yet covered under EPF.
Employers are not required to pay the employee’s past share of PF contribution. Only the employer’s share plus a nominal penalty of Rs 100 is applicable.
Even organisations under certain legal enquiries under the EPF Act, 1952 or Employees’ Pension Scheme, 1995 are eligible to participate.

This makes it easier for companies to regularise their workforce without facing heavy penalties.

Who Can Benefit from the EPFO Scheme?

The Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025 benefits:

Current employees who joined during the specified period and are still employed at the time of declaration.
Organisations undergoing enquiries under Section 7A, Paragraph 26B, or Paragraph 8.
Employees gain access to social security, retirement savings, and EPF benefits, improving long-term financial stability.

Note: EPFO will not take automatic action for employees who have left the company before the declaration date.

Benefits for Employers and Employees

For Employers:

Regularise workforce without fear of heavy fines or legal action.
Pay only the employer’s share of PF contribution plus a small fee.
Ensure compliance with labour laws and EPF regulations.

For Employees:

Access to EPF contributions and retirement savings.
Protection under the formal social security system.
Long-term financial security and benefits associated with EPF membership.

Government’s Objective

The EPFO Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025 is part of the government’s larger strategy to expand EPF coverage and strengthen the formal economy. Reports suggest the EPFO may soon increase the wage ceiling from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000, allowing more employees to benefit from EPF.

This initiative is a win-win: employers can comply easily, and employees gain social security and retirement benefits, fostering a more secure and formal workforce in India.