EPFO's big decision! Now UAN will be generated in a new way, Aadhaar card will be used
From August 2025, UAN to Be Issued Only Through Aadhaar Face Authentication via UMANG App
In a landmark move to streamline and digitize the process of employee provident fund account management, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a major update. Starting August 1, 2025, the generation of a new Universal Account Number (UAN) will only be possible through Aadhaar-based face authentication using the UMANG app.
This decision marks a significant shift towards automation, reliability, and error-free verification in the EPFO system.
What is UAN and Why Is It Important?
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique identification number allotted by EPFO to employees enrolled under the Employees’ Provident Fund Scheme, 1952. It acts as a centralized identity for all PF-related transactions and is linked to the employee throughout their career, even when they change jobs.
Every time an employee joins a new organization, a new Member ID is generated and linked to the existing UAN. Therefore, ensuring the accuracy and security of UAN generation is vital for maintaining consistent and secure access to an individual's PF account.
What Has Changed in the UAN Generation Process?
Until now, employees could generate their UAN either through their employer or via various digital platforms. However, this system was prone to manual errors in data entry, document mismatches, and verification delays.
To eliminate these issues, EPFO has implemented a robust, fully digital solution.
Starting August 1, 2025:
-
New UANs will only be generated through the UMANG app using Aadhaar-based face authentication technology (FAT).
-
Employees will need to install the UMANG app along with the Aadhaar Face RD app on their smartphones.
-
The face scan will be verified directly with the UIDAI (Aadhaar) database.
-
Upon successful verification, the UAN will be generated instantly.
This entire process eliminates the need for document uploads or manual intervention.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes, EPFO has clarified that for certain categories like international workers and citizens of Nepal and Bhutan, the existing employer-assisted UAN generation process will still be available.
FAT Introduced Earlier This Year
This initiative builds upon the April 8, 2025 rollout of Face Authentication Technology (FAT) on the UMANG platform. At that time, EPFO introduced three major functionalities:
-
New employees could generate and activate UAN directly via the app.
-
Existing UAN holders could activate their number without employer involvement.
-
Access to EPFO services (like passbook, KYC update, claim requests) became possible through face authentication.
Key Benefits of the New System
EPFO believes this tech-driven overhaul will significantly benefit both employees and the organization.
For Employees:
-
One-step process for UAN generation and activation—no separate workflows.
-
No manual errors, as all information is pulled directly from Aadhaar.
-
No document uploads or physical visits required.
-
Instant access to services—members can download the e-UAN card, check passbook, update KYC, and file claims right after activation.
For EPFO:
-
Enhanced process efficiency and reduced administrative workload.
-
Minimized identity fraud and document duplication.
Final Takeaway
EPFO’s latest update is a big leap toward seamless digital governance and employee convenience. With Aadhaar-based facial recognition now the norm for UAN generation, the system is poised to become faster, safer, and more transparent.
If you're joining a new job post-August 2025, make sure to have your Aadhaar-linked mobile and the UMANG app ready. This small digital step could save you a lot of time—and paperwork.
