From August 1st, 2025, the EPFO has launched a new digital scheme for UAN generation and activation. This means employees can now generate or activate their UAN via the UMANG mobile app and Aadhaar face authentication process without an employer’s assistance.
The Way The New System Works
The UMANG app provides the following methods to employees:
- Generate and activate new UANs
- Activate a UAN already assigned thereto, but yet inactive
- Update existing UAN records using face authentication
A person is required to have the UMANG app and the Aadhaar Face RD app installed on their phone, enter their Aadhaar number, mobile number, and send an OTP for verification. The person must then proceed to a facial scan for authentication. Upon successful authentication, UAN generation or activation is done, and immediately members can use EPFO services for activities such as viewing the passbook, updating their KYC, and filing claims.
Key Objectives Of The Change
In view of reducing errors and misuse in applying for a UAN through secure Aadhaar data linkage with facial authentication, this modification should also improve the precision and autonomy of the UAN process. It affords Now, the employees to enjoy EPFO services at their convenience without depending on the employer or even to go to a regional office.
Who Is Exempt And How To Proceed
UAN generation through the employer should be retained only for genuine cases like international employees and citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. For others, all UAN-related processes must now be self-serviced through UMANG and face authentication.
Industry Reaction And Challenges Ahead
Staffing associations have raised concerns arguing that given new requirement delay in operations have been introduced. As many contract workers do not possess a smartphone, Aadhaar-linked mobile number, or are devoid of reasonable net access, mass UAN generation has largely been slowed down, especially in high turnover industries. Further technical glitches, device incompatibility, and inability to understand the steps on the app have only hampered facial recognition. Staffing groups are pushing the regulators to reconsider the timeline and propose a more staged implementation approach so as to avoid payroll disruptions and onboarding delays.
What Employees Should Do Now
Download the UMANG app and also the Aadhaar Face RD app if you need to create or activate your UAN. Make sure that your mobile number is linked with your Aadhaar, follow the app instructions, perform face authentication, and wait for the activation or generation of your UAN. On completion, you will be fully able to avail passbook download, online claims, and KYC update services, both digitally and conveniently.
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