Vishwas Scheme: EPFO ​​launches 'Vishwas Scheme' – PF disputes to be resolved in a jiffy..

EPFO VISHWAS Scheme for Dispute Resolution: The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is introducing a new scheme that promises significant relief. To resolve long-standing PF-related disputes and litigation involving companies and employers, the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment launched the 'VISHWAS 2026' scheme on July 17, 2026.

This is a one-time dispute resolution scheme. It aims to settle disputes regarding fines and penalties imposed on companies for violating PF regulations. Let us understand what this scheme entails, which companies will benefit from it, and what it means for employees.

What is the 'VISHWAS 2026' scheme and its objective?

According to the official statement issued by the Ministry, the primary objective of this scheme is to promote 'voluntary compliance' among companies, reduce litigation, and ensure the speedy resolution of long-pending disputes.

Fully digital process: Employers will have access to a transparent, fully digital, and time-bound platform to resolve their cases.

Scheme validity period: The scheme became effective on June 29, 2026, and will remain open for six months from the date of notification.

Four types of cases covered under this scheme

The 'VISHWAS 2026' scheme primarily covers four distinct categories of disputes:

Cases pending in court: Cases where orders imposing penalties or damages have already been challenged in a judicial forum or court.

Pending recovery: Final orders regarding penalties or damages where recovery has not yet been fully completed or remains partially pending. This includes cases involving Recovery Certificates (RRC).

Pending orders: Cases where show-cause notices have been issued to companies, but the final order regarding the penalty is yet to be passed. Pending Notices: Cases where notices regarding penalties or damages are yet to be issued to companies.

Which cases are excluded from this scheme?

The EPFO ​​has clarified that certain serious cases and those already resolved will not be eligible for this amnesty scheme. This includes instances where the full amount of penalties or fines has already been recovered from the companies, as well as cases involving fraud, misappropriation of funds, or deliberate manipulation of records. Cases where the mandatory statutory interest has not yet been fully deposited are also excluded.

How can companies apply?

Eligible employers can follow the steps below to avail the benefits of this scheme:

Visit the Portal: Companies must log in to the EPFO's official 'Employer Portal'.

Digital Verification: To ensure the application process is secure, companies are required to use a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or e-Sign.

Conditions: At the time of application, companies must submit an undertaking stating that once the case is resolved under this scheme, they will not file any further appeals regarding the dispute in any court or forum.

Preparations by Employees and EPFO

According to the Ministry, the interests of employees have been fully safeguarded while introducing this scheme. Resolving these disputes will expedite the clearance of pending PF funds. To ensure the smooth implementation of the scheme, the EPFO ​​has issued operational guidelines to all its zonal, regional, and district offices. Additionally, special 'VISHWAS Cells' are being constituted to facilitate the quick review and timely settlement of applications.

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