ESI Scheme 2025: Eligibility, Medical Benefits, Salary Limit & How to Apply Online
The Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Scheme is one of India’s most important social security initiatives. It offers medical and financial support to employees during sickness, maternity, disability, or death due to employment injury. If you're wondering about ESI scheme eligibility 2025, salary limits, or how to apply online, this article is your complete guide.
What is the ESI Scheme?
The ESI Scheme is administered by the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), under the Ministry of Labour and Employment. Introduced in 1952, it aims to provide comprehensive social security benefits to employees earning below a certain wage threshold.
This scheme is funded through contributions from both employers and employees and covers a wide range of medical and cash benefits.
ESI Scheme Eligibility 2025
Who is eligible in 2025?
The ESI scheme eligibility 2025 primarily depends on the employee's salary and the nature of employment. Here are the criteria:
The employee should be working in an organization that has 10 or more employees (in some states, the threshold is 20).
The gross monthly salary (including allowances) should not exceed ₹21,000.
For employees with disabilities, the limit is ₹25,000.
The establishment must be registered under the ESIC.
Both contractual and full-time employees are covered under this scheme if salary criteria are met.
Note: Salaried employees drawing above the threshold are not eligible for ESI coverage but may be covered under other schemes like EPF or private insurance.
Key Employee State Insurance Benefits
One of the primary advantages of being covered under ESI is access to comprehensive healthcare and financial support. The major employee state insurance benefits include:
1. Medical Benefits
Comprehensive medical care is provided for the insured individual
Includes outpatient, inpatient, specialist consultations, and diagnostics.
Free treatment through ESIC hospitals and dispensaries.
2. Sickness Benefit
Cash compensation at 70% of wages for up to 91 days in a year during medical leave.
3. Maternity Benefit
Women employees are entitled to full wage payment for 26 weeks (extendable under conditions).
4. Disablement Benefit
Temporary: 90% of wage is payable during the period of certified disability.
Permanent: Monthly payments depending on disability percentage.
5. Dependent Benefit
Monthly pension to dependents in case of death due to employment injury.
6. Funeral Expenses
A lump sum of ₹15,000 is provided to the family of the deceased insured person.
7. Rehabilitation Services
Vocational training for permanently disabled employees.
ESI Salary Limit 2025: What You Need to Know
The ESI salary limit 2025 remains a crucial factor for both employers and employees to determine coverage. As per the latest update:
Employees drawing up to ₹21,000/month are eligible.
The contribution rate is:
Employer: 3.25% of the gross salary
Employee: 0.75% of the gross salary
For example, an employee earning ₹20,000 will contribute ₹150 per month, while the employer will contribute ₹650.
Important:
If an employee’s salary increases above ₹21,000 after being enrolled, they continue to be covered till the end of that contribution period (6 months).
Employers must continue contributing during this time.
This salary limit rule ensures continued benefits without disruption due to slight salary hikes during the coverage period.
How to Apply for ESI Online
Digital transformation has made it easier than ever to enroll in the scheme. Here's how to apply for ESI online in 2025:
Step 1: Employer Registration
The employer must visit the ESIC portal: https://www.esic.gov.in
Click on ‘Employer Login’, then select ‘Sign Up’
Fill in required details like business name, PAN, address, etc.
After submission, login credentials will be emailed to the registered ID.
Step 2: Employee Registration
After employer login, click on ‘Register Employee’
Fill out the employee details: name, father's name, date of birth, mobile number, and bank details.
Upload required documents:
PAN or Aadhaar
Salary slips
Address proof
The employee will be assigned a unique Insurance Number (IP number).
Step 3: E-Pehchan Card Generation
Once the registration is complete, download the E-Pehchan card, which is the ESI identity card.
This card is essential for availing medical and cash benefits.
Pro Tip: Always ensure accuracy in employee details to avoid benefit claim rejections later.
Documents Required for ESI Registration
For smooth application, keep the following documents ready:
Employer’s PAN Card
Bank details of employer
Address proof of establishment
Digital signature of employer
Aadhaar and PAN of employees
Recent passport-size photographs
Salary details and attendance records
Why ESI Matters for Employers and Employees Alike
For employers, compliance with ESI rules ensures legal protection and workforce satisfaction. Non-compliance can lead to penalties and legal issues under the ESI Act.
For employees, the scheme offers an accessible safety net covering health, income protection, and even post-retirement benefits. It bridges the gap for low-income earners who may not afford private healthcare.
Final Thoughts
With rising medical costs and a strong push for social security coverage, the ESI scheme eligibility 2025 is more relevant than ever. For salaried employees and employers, staying informed about ESI salary limits, benefit structures, and the online application process can ensure timely enrollment and hassle-free claims.
The scheme continues to serve as a cornerstone of India’s labour welfare policies, empowering millions of workers across sectors. If you're eligible and not enrolled yet — don’t wait. Use this guide to understand your rights, responsibilities, and how to apply for ESI online in just a few clicks. Explore more at https://compliancesarathi.in/ right away.
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