How to Withdraw Your Provident Fund (PF) When You’re Outside India

If you’re an Indian citizen who has moved abroad, you might be wondering how to withdraw your Provident Fund (PF) savings. The process is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through it.

Eligibility for Provident Fund Withdrawal:

Before you start the withdrawal process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

1. Relocation Abroad: You must be relocating or have already relocated abroad.
2. Employment Status: You should no longer be employed in India.
3. EPF Account: Your EPF account should be active and linked to your Universal Account Number (UAN).

Steps to Withdraw Provident Fund:

1. Gather Necessary Documents:
   • UAN: Ensure your UAN is active and linked to your Aadhaar.
   • Bank Account: Your Indian bank account details should be updated in the EPFO records.
   • PAN Card: Ensure your PAN is linked to your UAN to avoid higher TDS deductions.
   • Form 15G/15H: If applicable, to avoid TDS deductions.
2. Download the Withdrawal Form:
   • Visit the EPFO portal and download the Aadhaar-based Composite Claim Form.
   • Alternatively, you can use the UMANG app for a more convenient process.
3. Fill Out the Form:
   • Complete the form with accurate details. Mention the reason for withdrawal as “Relocation Abroad”.
   • Attach the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport and visa.
4. Submit the Form:
   • If you are still in India, submit the form to your employer for attestation.
   • If you are already abroad, you can bypass the employer attestation and submit the form directly to the EPFO office or through the UMANG app.
5. Track Your Claim:
   • After submission, you can track the status of your claim on the EPFO portal using your UAN.

What If Your Aadhaar is Not Linked to Your UAN?

If your Aadhaar is not linked to your UAN, you will need to follow a different process:

1. Use the Non-Aadhaar Composite Claim Form:
   • Download the Non-Aadhaar Composite Claim Form from the EPFO portal.
   • Fill out the form with accurate details and attach the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport and visa.
2. Employer Attestation:
   • This form requires attestation from your employer. If you are already abroad, you may need to coordinate with your previous employer in India to get the form attested.
3. Submit the Form:
   • Submit the attested form to the respective jurisdictional EPFO office. You may need to mail the form if you are unable to submit it in person.
4. Track Your Claim:
   • Track the status of your claim on the EPFO portal using your UAN.

What If Your UAN is Not Available?

If you do not have your UAN, follow these steps:

1. Contact Your Employer:
   • Reach out to your previous employer to obtain your UAN. They should have this information and can provide it to you.
2. Use the Old Procedure:
   • If you cannot obtain your UAN, you can still withdraw your PF using the old procedure. Download the Non-Aadhaar Composite Claim Form from the EPFO portal.
3. Fill Out the Form:
   • Complete the form with accurate details and attach the necessary documents, including a copy of your passport and visa.
4. Employer Attestation:
   • This form requires attestation from your employer. If you are already abroad, you may need to coordinate with your previous employer in India to get the form attested.
5. Submit the Form:
   • Submit the attested form to the respective jurisdictional EPFO office. You may need to mail the form if you are unable to submit it in person.
6. Track Your Claim:
   • Track the status of your claim on the EPFO portal using your PF account number.

Important Points to Remember:

1. Inactive Accounts: If your EPF account does not receive any contributions for three consecutive years, it will be considered inoperative
2. Tax Implications: Withdrawals before five years of continuous service may attract TDS unless Form 15G/15H is submitted.
3. Certificate of Coverage (COC): If you are moving to a country with which India has a Social Security Agreement, obtain a COC to avoid dual contributions.

Conclusion:

Withdrawing your PF while living abroad can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process. Make sure all your documents are in order and keep track of your application status to avoid any delays.

Also Read: Inheritance Planning for Indians: A Comprehensive Guide