Bihar Extends Fee-Free OSHWC Registration Until 31 December 2026

Key notification details at a glance

What has changed under the Bihar OSHWC Rules?

Rule 3(10)(1) originally provided a 60-day fee-free application window from commencement of the Code for establishments already in existence. Exercising the power under Rule 93, the State Government has extended that window until 31 December 2026.

The notification refers to implementation arrangements, including the creation of a registration portal and notification of registering authorities. It also records requests from the Bihar Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Patna, and the Bihar Industries Association for more time.

Which establishments qualify for fee-free registration?

Employers should check the following points before relying on the concession:

• The establishment falls within the scope of the Code and this Bihar notification.
• It existed before the Code commenced on 21 November 2025.
• Its application is submitted on or before 31 December 2026.

Location alone does not establish eligibility. Review the establishment’s activity, applicable jurisdiction and existing registration records before selecting the application route.

Example of an eligible existing establishment

A covered Bihar establishment operating in October 2025, with registration still pending, can use the extended fee-free window if it applies by 31 December 2026.

Example of a new establishment

An establishment that came into existence in December 2025 is outside the pre-commencement category. Applying before 31 December 2026 does not by itself make its registration fee-free.

These examples illustrate the date distinction. Actual eligibility also depends on statutory coverage and the establishment’s registration position.

Does the extension waive registration or other obligations?

Registration remains required where applicable. The Gazette describes the change as an extension of the fee-free registration period and directs covered establishments to ensure registration within that period.

Employers should not treat it as a general amnesty for penalties, licences, other fees or workplace compliance. The notification does not announce such a blanket waiver.

What should employers do before 31 December 2026?

The following are practical preparation steps, rather than a statutory list of application documents:

1. Review coverage and jurisdiction. Identify the Bihar locations covered and confirm the appropriate registering authority.
2. Check existing registrations. Review earlier certificates and confirm any recognition, updating or migration requirements before filing afresh.
3. Document establishment history. Keep records supporting when the establishment came into existence.
4. Prepare the application. Follow the current official portal or authority instructions for information, supporting documents and submission.
5. File ahead of the deadline. Retain a dated acknowledgement and follow up on deficiencies or certificate issuance.

Assign an internal owner and an earlier target date so that missing records or portal issues can be addressed before the final day. Keep the notification, eligibility assessment, application and acknowledgement together for future reference.

What happens after the extended deadline?

This notification does not extend the fee-free window beyond 31 December 2026. An employer applying later should check the then-current rules, applicable fees and any subsequent notification. Do not assume that a further extension will be issued.

Frequently asked questions

What is the last date for fee-free OSHWC registration in Bihar?

The extended deadline is 31 December 2026. Eligible establishments that existed before the commencement of the Code must apply on or before that date to use the extended fee-free registration window.

Which establishments qualify for the Bihar registration fee relief?

The relief covers establishments within the scope of the notification that existed before 21 November 2025, the commencement date of the Code. Employers should check coverage, establishment date and current registration status before applying.

Are new establishments also exempt from registration fees?

No. The notification distinguishes new establishments from those existing before commencement of the Code. New establishments remain subject to the registration-fee table under the Bihar Rules, even when applying before 31 December 2026.

Does the extension remove the requirement to register?

No. It extends the fee-free registration period. The notification directs establishments covered by the Code to ensure registration during the extended period.

What is the effective date of the Bihar notification?

S.O. 243 is dated 30 October 2026 and expressly takes effect from 1 July 2026. The effective date and the 31 December 2026 application deadline serve different purposes.

Does the notification waive penalties or other compliance obligations?

The notification addresses the fee-free registration period. It does not announce a general waiver of penalties, other fees or workplace compliance obligations. Employers should assess those matters separately.

What should employers do if an establishment is already registered?

Review the existing certificate and confirm the applicable recognition, updating or migration process with the registering authority. Do not assume that every existing establishment needs a duplicate fresh application.

Source notification

This update is based on Bihar Gazette Extraordinary No. 1329, S.O. 243 dated 30 October 2026, with the authorised English translation under S.O. 244.

• Government of Bihar notification download
• Read the notification PDF on LabourCodes360