Effective from August 1, 2025, a major change was implemented by the EPFO: employees can now generate and activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) directly in the UMANG app using Aadhaar-based facial authentication, eliminating the need for the employer to be part of the process.
What Has Changed And Who Is Included
Under the new rule, all new users will have to go through Face Authentication Technology (FAT) via the UMANG app for UAN creation, hence most cases will discontinue the erstwhile employer application for UAN allotment procedure, except for some rare cases such as international workers, and citizens of Nepal or Bhutan. For these instances, the old employer process will still be available.
New Digital Services Via UMANG Application
Three major services have been integrated by EPFO into UMANG for smooth flow, aided by face authentication:
- UAN Allotment and Activation: For users who do not have a UAN.
- UAN Activation: For those who have a UAN but which is inactive.
- Face Authentication for Already Activated UANs: Updates EPFO records after Aadhaar-based verification.
- In general, the enhancements aim to simplify the whole UAN process, thus making it faster, safer, and more independent.
In A Step-by-Step Manner
Download and launch the UMANG app. When prompted, also install the Aadhaar Face RD app.
- For a new UAN:
- Go to “UAN Allotment and Activation”.
- Enter the Aadhaar card number and mobile number.
- Consent and OTP transmission.
- Perform the facial scan via the Aadhaar app.
- In case there is no UAN against your Aadhaar, you shall be issued a UAN number through SMS.
- To activate an existing UAN:
- Go to UAN Activation.
- Fill up the details.
- Send the OTP, do the face scan.
- Receive a temporary password via SMS, with which the UAN shall be activated.
- EPFO records like photo and address get updated automatically.
Updating records via face authentication involves going to the app, selecting the option for the face authentication of already activated UANs, authorizing, and completing the scan. Your authenticated details will be fetched and updated into the EPFO database.
Advantages Of A New System
Independence: No longer needing any employer initiation of UAN.
- Speed: A smooth, quick, contactless process, fully digital.
- Access: Instant utilization of EPFO services like passbook, KYC update, and filing of claims.
- Correctness: Preverified Aadhaar details help provide the structure toward ensuring data accuracy.
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