Documents required for ESIC services

Few things are more frustrating than reaching an ESIC facility after a long journey, only to be told you are missing a document. This checklist covers what is typically needed for common ESIC services. Requirements can differ between facilities and change over time, so when in doubt, call the facility or check esic.gov.in.

What documents do I need for ESIC?

For any ESIC visit, carry your e-Pehchan card or insurance number and a photo ID such as Aadhaar; add a referral letter and previous reports when relevant.

• ESIC e-Pehchan card, printed or on your phone, or at minimum your insurance number. See our Pehchan card guide.
• Photo ID, such as your Aadhaar card.
• Previous prescriptions and test reports related to your problem.
• List of medicines you currently take.
• Mobile phone with your registered number, as some services send an OTP or booking message.

For a routine dispensary visit

• e-Pehchan card or insurance number;
• Photo ID;
• Old prescriptions if it is a follow-up.

For a hospital or specialist visit

• Everything above, plus:
• Referral slip or letter from your dispensary or referring hospital (for non-emergency specialist care);
• Online appointment confirmation, if you booked one (see our appointment guide);
• All recent reports, scans and discharge summaries.

For a family member

• Your e-Pehchan card or insurance number, showing the family member registered on your record;
• The family member's own photo ID (Aadhaar or similar);
• For children, any ID or birth record the facility asks for;
• Any referral letter and previous reports.

For sickness benefit claims

• Medical certificate(s) of sickness issued by an ESIC-authorised doctor;
• e-Pehchan card or insurance number;
• Bank account details linked to your ESIC record (payments are generally made directly to the bank);
• Any claim form the branch office asks for.

For maternity benefit claims

• Medical certificates relating to pregnancy and confinement from an ESIC-authorised doctor;
• e-Pehchan card or insurance number;
• Bank account details linked to your ESIC record;
• Any additional certificates or forms the branch office specifies.

For a workplace injury

• Make sure your employer has reported the accident to ESIC;
• Medical records and certificates relating to the injury;
• e-Pehchan card or insurance number, photo ID and bank details.

For updates and corrections

• Proof of the correct details, such as Aadhaar for name or date of birth;
• Photographs if your card or family details are missing them;
• Your insurance number.

Many updates are made by your employer on the ESIC portal, so start by asking your HR team.

What if you do not have your card?

If you have lost your card or never received it, you may still be able to get care if you know your insurance number and carry photo ID, but this depends on the facility. Ask your employer to print a fresh e-Pehchan card from the ESIC portal, or visit your ESIC branch office. If you have just joined a new job and have not been registered yet, speak to your HR team first. In an emergency, do not wait for documents: call 112 or go to the nearest hospital, and sort out the paperwork afterwards.

Practical tips

• Keep a folder, physical or on your phone, with copies of all ESIC documents;
• Carry photocopies as well as originals; some counters keep a copy;
• Write your insurance number somewhere safe, separate from your card;
• Do not hand original documents to anyone who is not ESIC or facility staff.

Not sure what you need for your situation? Ask the assistant, check the ESIC benefits summary, or visit our FAQ.

Related ESIC guides: how to find an ESIC hospital, ESIC appointment guide, ESIC e-Pehchan card guide, ESIC benefits explained. Quick reference: ESIC benefits at a glance · ESIC hospital and dispensary finder · all ESIC guides.

Source: ESIC (esic.gov.in) · Last reviewed: 25 September 2026 · Always confirm current rules on the official website