Can I Get EPF & ESIC Numbers Before Hiring Employees for a Tender Application?

Respected Sir, I want to apply for the EPF & ESIC Code Number, but I do not have any employees. I need the EPF & ESIC code number to apply with a tender for the supply of manpower for housekeeping. If I get the tender, then I will start the recruitment and make the necessary payments to ESIC & EPF. This process will take at least six months. So, my question is, can I obtain the ESIC & EPF numbers in advance and make the payment later on?

If you are a company operating under the Companies Act, you should have obtained ESI and EPF registration at the time of forming the company. However, if you are in a partnership arrangement or a sole proprietorship, you must obtain registration separately when your employment strength reaches the required threshold for coverage, i.e., 10 employees for ESI and 20 employees for EPF. Registration cannot be obtained before reaching this minimum number. If you are confident that you will secure the contract, you can hire approximately 20 individuals and proceed with registration.