Quick answer: The Pravasi Welfare Fund is a Kerala government pension and welfare scheme run by the Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board. Non-Resident Keralites aged 18 to 60 can join by paying a ₹200 registration fee and a monthly contribution. After age 60 and at least five years of contributions, members get a monthly pension starting from ₹3,500 (for those abroad) or ₹3,000 (for returnees and those in other states).
Many Gulf Malayalis spend decades abroad without a pension plan. The the scheme was created to change that. This guide explains the this scheme categories, contribution amounts, pension rules and how to register online. Figures below are from the Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board website. Check the site for any revisions before you join.
Table of Contents
What is the Pravasi Welfare Fund?
The Kerala this scheme is a contributory scheme. Members pay a fixed amount every month, and in return they get a pension after 60 and access to welfare benefits. It is managed by the Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board, a statutory body under the Kerala government.
Pravasi Welfare Fund categories
| Category | Who it is for | Monthly contribution | Minimum pension |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1A | Keralites currently working abroad | ₹350 | ₹3,500 |
| 1B | Returnees settled in Kerala after at least 2 years of work abroad | ₹200 | ₹3,000 |
| 2A | Keralites working in other Indian states | ₹200 | ₹3,000 |
The registration fee is ₹200 for all categories.
Who can join the Pravasi Welfare Fund?
- Non-Resident Keralites aged between 18 and 60.
- For category 1B, you must have worked abroad for at least two years and returned to settle in Kerala.
- For category 2A, you must be working in India but outside Kerala.
How the Pravasi Welfare Fund pension works
You become eligible for a pension when you reach 60 and have paid contributions continuously for at least five years. The minimum pension depends on your category, as shown in the table above. For every year of membership beyond five years, an additional pension of 3% of the minimum amount is added, up to a maximum of twice the minimum pension.
Example: A category 1A member who joins at 35 and contributes until 60 has 25 years of membership. The extra years add to the pension, subject to the cap of twice the minimum.
Other Pravasi Welfare Fund benefits
Besides the pension, the board offers welfare support such as family pension, disability assistance, death assistance and help with medical treatment, marriage and education, subject to its rules. See the full benefits list on the Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board website.
How to register for the Pravasi Welfare Fund online
Step 1: Open the registration page
Go to the online registration section of pravasikerala.org and choose new registration.
Step 2: Choose your category
Select 1A, 1B or 2A based on where you work now.
Step 3: Fill in your details
Enter your personal details, passport and visa details (for 1A), address in Kerala and nominee.
Step 4: Upload documents
Typically: passport pages, visa or work proof, photo, signature and age proof. Returnees need proof of past employment abroad.
Step 5: Pay the registration fee and first contribution
Pay online. You will get a membership ID once the board approves your application.
Step 6: Keep paying every month
Pay your monthly contribution online using your membership ID. Missing payments can affect your pension eligibility, so many members pay a year in advance.
Pravasi Welfare Fund vs Norka Pravasi ID card
The Pravasi Welfare Fund is a pension scheme with monthly contributions. The Norka Pravasi ID card is an identity card with accident insurance. They serve different purposes, and you can hold both.
Is the Pravasi Welfare Fund worth it?
The contribution is small compared with most Gulf salaries, and the pension is backed by the state government. It works best as one part of your retirement plan, alongside savings in an NRE or NRO account and other investments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly contribution for the Pravasi Welfare Fund?
According to the board’s website, ₹350 per month for category 1A (abroad) and ₹200 per month for categories 1B and 2A.
When do I get the Pravasi Welfare Fund pension?
After you turn 60 and have paid contributions continuously for at least five years.
What is the minimum pension amount?
₹3,500 per month for category 1A and ₹3,000 per month for categories 1B and 2A, as listed on the board’s website.
Can returnees join the Pravasi Welfare Fund?
Yes, under category 1B, if they worked abroad for at least two years and have returned to settle in Kerala.
What is the Pravasi Welfare Board helpline?
The board lists a toll-free number, 1800 890 8281, on its website.