EPFO UAN Generation Now Mandatory via UMANG App

EPFO now mandates EPFO UAN generation exclusively through the UMANG app using Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT). From August 1, 2025, employees can generate and activate UAN on their own—without employer involvement—ensuring accuracy and autonomy.

Introduction – A Veteran Journalist’s View

After two decades observing India’s social security system, EPFO’s shift to digital-first and user-controlled UAN generation marks a major milestone. From August 1, 2025, Aadhaar-based face authentication using the UMANG app has become the only approved method to generate or activate a Universal Account Number (UAN). This streamlined approach enables self-service, reduces errors, and enhances transparency in PF account creation and management.

What is UAN and Why It Matters

Definition and Purpose

UAN (Universal Account Number) is a unique 12‑digit identifier assigned per EPF member, linking multiple PF accounts across employers. It enables seamless management of PF savings, KYC updates, passbook access, and claims, all under one digital roof.

Previous Process vs. New System

Previously, employers often initiated UAN generation. The new rule eliminates that by requiring employees themselves to generate UAN using Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT) through UMANG—removing third‑party or employer dependency

Major Policy Update – Key Changes Starting August 1, 2025

Mandatory UMANG App Route

As of August 1, 2025, UAN generation and activation must be done via UMANG, using Aadhaar Face-based FAT. This applies to both new and existing UANs .

Three UMANG-Based Services

EPFO’s circular (July 30) introduces three Face Authentication-based services:

UAN Allotment & Activation – for users without a UAN
UAN Activation – for those who have a UAN but it isn’t active
Face Authentication for Already Activated UANs – updates biometric and address verification—improving data integrity .

Exemptions and Exceptions

Employees from Nepal, Bhutan, and international workers remain exempt; their UAN generation via employers is still permitted

Step-by-Step Guide to UAN Generation & Activation via UMANG

Prerequisites

UMANG app installed
Aadhaar Face RD App (for biometric verification)
Aadhaar-linked mobile number for OTP
Consent confirmed in-app to use Aadhaar data .

Generating UAN via UMANG App

Open UMANG → Select “UAN Allotment and Activation”
Enter Aadhaar number + registered mobile number → consent checkbox → “Send OTP”
Verify OTP → if no existing UAN, proceed to Face Authentication via camera + Aadhaar scan
On success, UAN is generated instantly and sent via SMS
Downloadable e‑UAN card available in UMANG & EPFO portal .

Activating an Existing UAN

Select “UAN Activation”
Provide UAN, Aadhaar, mobile number → Send OTP → Face Authentication
On success, temporary password sent via SMS; EPFO records updated with photo and address automatically.

Face Authentication of Activated UANs

After selecting relevant UMANG option, complete facial scan authentication
EPFO database updates linked Aadhaar mobile, address, and photograph

Benefits for Employees & EPFO

Instant & Secure

Face authentication via Aadhaar ensures accurate data retrieval directly from UIDAI. No manual entry or employer intermediaries needed .

User Autonomy

Members no longer rely on HR departments or EPFO offices—complete process remotely with minimal wait.

Improved Data Accuracy

Face match reduces identity theft and data mismatch. Improved digital KYC for future EPF operations.

Broader Accessibility

As the UMANG platform supports EPFP services including passbook access and claim submission, users have a unified portal even if EPFO website is down

EPFO UAN generation: Mandatory via UMANG App from August 1, 2025
Use of epfo uan generation Umang and aadhar face authentication
UAN activation process via UMANG app
Benefits: security, autonomy, digital EPFO access
Exemptions: international, Nepal/Bhutan nationals still need employer generation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I generate UAN without using the UMANG app?

A: No. From August 1, 2025, UAN generation and activation require UMANG app navigation with Aadhaar-based face authentication. Exceptions apply only to select foreign nationals and Nepal/Bhutan citizens .

Q2: Is face authentication mandatory?

A: Yes, Face Authentication Technology (FAT) using Aadhaar Face RD App is required for UAN generation, activation, and biometric record update in the UMANG app .

Q3: What if I already have a UAN but haven’t activated it yet?

A: Use the UAN Activation service in UMANG. Complete OTP validation and face scan to activate and receive a temporary password via SMS

Q4: How do I update my EPFO record if I already have an active UAN?

A: Use “Face Authentication of Already Activated UANs” in UMANG. After scanning, EPFO updates Aadhaar-linked mobile, photo and address on the record .

Q5: Do I still need to visit EPFO office?

A: No. The entire UAN generation & activation process can be completed remotely via UMANG using fingerprintless face scan technology.

Helpful Resources

Conclusion

EPFO’s UAN generation overhaul—mandating face authentication via UMANG app—represents a transformative move towards secure, employer-independent, and digitised PF management. As of August 1, 2025, employees across India can now generate or activate their UAN instantly from their smartphones. With services like passbook access, KYC updates, and PF claims unlocked via UAN, this initiative empowers users while reinforcing data integrity. Ensure you have the UMANG and Aadhaar Face RD apps installed, grant consent, and complete the face authentication process today to access your EPFO entitlements seamlessly.