Labour Law Compliance Checklist
Key labour law requirements for Indian businesses. Know what applies to your company size and industry.
Key government portals
epfindia.gov.in — for EPF registration, ECR filing, and employee passbook access.
esic.gov.in — for ESIC registration, contribution payment, and IP benefits.
labour.gov.in — for labour codes, national career service portal, and dispute resolution.
Frequently asked questions
What are the 4 Labour Codes replacing older laws?
The government has passed 4 Labour Codes consolidating 29 older laws: (1) Code on Wages, 2019, (2) Industrial Relations Code, 2020, (3) Code on Social Security, 2020, (4) Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020. Implementation timelines vary by state.
Is POSH Act applicable to all companies?
The POSH Act (Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013) requires companies with 10 or more employees to have an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). Companies with fewer employees should follow the Local Complaints Committee (LCC) route.
What is the threshold for EPF registration?
EPF registration is mandatory for establishments employing 20 or more persons. Once registered, EPF obligations continue even if employee count falls below 20. Voluntary coverage is available for smaller establishments.
Can startups defer labour law compliance?
No. Labour laws apply based on employee count and industry, not company age or funding stage. Startups incorporated as companies still need to comply with the Shops & Establishment Act, payment of wages, and EPF/ESIC once thresholds are crossed.
What are penalties for non-compliance?
Penalties vary by law. EPF non-compliance: damages up to 100% of arrears + interest. ESIC non-compliance: imprisonment up to 2 years. Factories Act violations: fines up to ₹2 lakh. Minimum wages violation: imprisonment up to 6 months + fine.