Health insurance portability is a process that lets you switch from your current insurer to a new one. This is an important decision if you are not happy with the insurance company and wish to switch without things like waiting period reset, loss of benefits, etc. Note that porting your health plan to a new insurer is possible only upon renewal and not in the middle of the policy tenure.
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Health Insurance Portability in India lets you switch from one health insurance provider to another without losing your accumulated benefits like no claim bonus or a waiting period reset. It's helpful to keep your health coverage flexible and relevant to your changing needs.
You can apply for portability at least 45 days before your current policy expires. The new insurer will go through your application and may offer a better plan. Plus, your waiting period, pre-existing disease cover, and other benefits from your old policy will be included in the new plan. Health insurance portability ensures your health coverage journey remains smooth and uninterrupted. So, if you're looking for a change or better health insurance benefits, portability might be the right move to make.
Here is a simple guide to help you navigate the porting process.
You should look for different health insurance providers. Choose a plan that offers all the benefits you need within budget and is efficient according to your coverage requirements.
Analyse their features, coverage, initial and terms of existing plans, and compare them with new plans. The new policy should provide benefits equal to or greater than the old one.
Check the waiting period of the new policy. Choose a plan in which the waiting period is the same or less than your current policy. If it is more, then you’ll have to wait for making a claim.
Instruct your current insurer that you will be porting your policy at least 45 days before your renewal date.
Request a portability form from the current insurer because it will hold all the relevant data required for the transmission process and make the transfer easier. Fill the application with all accurate information that is updated and double-check all the details so no delay or mistake could occur. Submit the completed form to the new insurer along with the KYC document and copy of the existing policy so that it can begin the porting process.
The new insurer will consider your application and will get back to you within 15 days as to whether they agree with the portability of your policy. If your application is accepted, the new insurer will issue you a policy. Carefully review the terms and conditions of your new coverage before finalising.
Once satisfied with the new policy, inform your old insurer to cancel your existing policy. Make sure to check that there’s no overlap or gaps in coverage.
Porting your health insurance policy to a new insurer is like giving your policy a new home while keeping your benefits intact. It's a smart move, but there's a little paperwork involved. Here are the documents you might need for health insurance portability.
For the new insurance company:
Make sure you double-check with your new insurer regarding any specific documents they may require. After this, your new insurer will guide you through the rest of the process.
Portability in health insurance is all about making your health insurance experience better, flexible, and more in line with what you need. It's like being able to tailor your healthcare plan to fit you just right. Here are the key benefits:
You won't lose out on any no-claim bonus or waiting period benefits accumulated with your previous insurer.
The new insurer can't impose additional waiting periods for pre-existing diseases beyond what you've already served with the previous insurer.
If you're unhappy with the services or coverage offered by your current insurer, portability allows you to switch to a provider that treats you better.
Transferring your health insurance policy to another company allows you to switch from one insurance provider to another without losing out on your waiting period benefits.
Maybe you've moved to a new city, or your family has grown. With portability, you can choose a plan that fits your current lifestyle and health needs.
Insurance providers want your business, offering competitive premiums to attract you. Portability allows you to take advantage of these offerings and save some money.
Health insurance portability is designed to give you more freedom and better options. Here are the general rules that apply to health insurance portability in India.
| Situations | Health Insurance Portability Rules |
| Types of health plan allowed for porting | The policyholder can port between similar types of health plans. For example, a Family-Floater Policy from one insurer can be ported to the Family-floater Policy of another insurer. |
| Change in sum insured | As per IRDAI guidelines, the policyholder can choose to increase the sum insured depending on the terms and conditions of the new plan. However, the new insurer must match the original sum insured of the previous plan. |
| Type of insurance company | The policyholder can port a health plan bought from a general insurance to another. |
| Timeframe | Porting medical insurance is possible only 45 days before the renewal date of the current plan. |
| Active policies | Only active policies can be ported. However, note that in case of delays from the insurer, the policy can be deemed valid for porting. |
| Intimation | It is necessary that both the insurance companies be notified about the porting of a health insurance plan. |
| Acknowledgement | The insurance company must send an acknowledgement to the policyholder within 3 days of receiving the portability request. |
| Cost of porting a health insurance plan | There are no charges for the process of porting. However, the policyholder may have to pay the difference of premium in case of availing more coverages as per the underwriting terms of the new insurer. |
| Waiting period | There will not be a waiting period reset on the new plan. The policyholder just needs to complete the difference in the waiting period of the new plan if applicable. For example, you have completed a waiting period of 2 years on pre-existing diseases and the new plan needs you to wait for a total of 3 years. In this case, you have already completed 2 years, now you just need to wait for one more year for making a claim against pre-existing diseases. |
| Right of approval | The new insurer has the right to accept or reject (with a valid reason) your health insurance transfer. |
Here are some of the disadvantages of Health Insurance Portability.
In India, the number of insurance providers offering portability is limited. So, you might not have a wide range of choices when looking to switch. This lack of options can be a drawback.
Each insurance company may have different terms and conditions. What was covered in your previous policy might not be covered in the new one. This can be a bit confusing.
The premium you pay for your health insurance may change when you switch. It could increase based on your age, health condition, or other factors. This might make it more expensive than what you were paying before.
Shifting to a new insurer may lead to delays in claim settlements. The new company may take time to understand your medical history and might delay the processing of your claims.
If you've been loyal to your insurer for a long time, you might lose out on loyalty benefits like no-claim bonuses or accumulations that you would have earned with your previous insurer.
Even though IRDAI allows you to switch your health insurance plan from one insurer to another, the new insurance company can still reject your request. That’s because each portability request is treated like a brand-new application.
When you apply to port your policy, the insurer reviews your details carefully to check the level of risk and decide what premium to charge. If they find the risk too high, they may reject your request. In that case, you’ll have to continue with your current insurance provider.
Here are reasons why medical insurance portability can be denied.
Make sure you provide all the necessary documents when applying for portability. If you miss out on important paperwork, the insurance company might deny your request.
It's crucial to pay your premiums on time. If you have outstanding premium payments or have not paid premiums for a considerable period, your request for portability can be rejected.
If you have violated the terms and conditions of your current policy, such as fraudulent claims or providing incorrect information, the new insurance company might deny your request for portability.
Apply for portability within 45 days before the policy renewal date. If you apply after this period, your request might not be accepted.
Ensure that your existing policy is active when you apply for portability. If your policy has lapsed or expired, your request for portability could be denied.
If the policy you wish to port to is not up to the standard set by the IRDAI, your request may be denied.
Some policies have waiting periods for specific illnesses or conditions. If you're still in the waiting period for certain ailments, the new insurer might reject your portability request related to those conditions.
Let's dive into the common reasons why people choose to switch their health insurance in India.
People often seek health insurance policies that offer more comprehensive coverage, additional benefits, or specific treatments that their current policy may not provide. Switching to a new plan that meets their evolving needs is a common reason for portability.
A major factor in the decision to switch is cost. Individuals may find another insurer offering similar or better coverage at a more affordable premium. Saving on premiums while maintaining adequate coverage is a smart financial move.
Sometimes, policyholders may be dissatisfied with the customer service of their current insurance provider. They might experience delays in claim settlement, lack of responsiveness, or other service-related issues. Opting for a new insurer with a better customer service track record is a reason for portability.
The availability and proximity of network hospitals can influence a person's choice. Suppose they move to an area with limited or no network hospitals of their current insurer. In that case, they might consider switching to a provider with a more extensive network in that region.
Changes in residency or employment often prompt a change in health insurance. Suppose someone relocates to a different city or state where their current insurer has limited coverage. In that case, they might port their policy to a company with a broader network in their new location.
As people age or their health conditions change, they may seek policies that cater better to their current health needs. Some insurance providers may offer better terms for specific age groups or health situations.
Insurance needs vary from person to person. Some individuals might want more flexibility in choosing add-ons or riders that suit their lifestyle or health requirements. Switching to a plan that allows customisation is a valid reason for portability.
Over time, individuals might realise the need for a higher sum insured due to increased medical costs or changing life circumstances like starting a family. Portability allows switching to a policy with a higher sum insured to ensure adequate coverage.
Some policies have specific exclusions or waiting periods for certain conditions. Individuals might opt for portability to escape these waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions in a new policy.
Understanding these reasons can guide individuals in making informed decisions when considering porting their health insurance policy in India.
Here are some important things to keep in mind while porting your health insurance:
Look for health insurance plans that match your needs and requirements. Compare different policies, their coverage, premiums, and additional benefits.
Understand the waiting periods for pre-existing conditions in the new policy. Knowing if the waiting period will be carried forward from your existing policy is important.
Read and understand the terms and conditions of the new health insurance policy. Be aware of any limitations, exclusions, and inclusions.
Ensure that the new insurance company has a good network of hospitals in your area. This will make it convenient for you to avail cashless treatment.
Calculate the premium for the new policy based on your age, health conditions, and coverage requirements. Ensure it fits within your budget.
Inquire if you can transfer the No Claim Bonus (NCB) you have accumulated in your existing policy to the new one. This can lower your premium.
Understand the process of porting your health insurance policy. Complete the necessary paperwork and documentation accurately to avoid any delays.
Stick to the porting timelines provided by the IRDAI. Initiating the porting process well in advance is advisable.
Focusing only on current needs can lead to inadequate coverage in the future. Opt for a policy that has the flexibility to upgrade coverage based on the changes in your needs.
Be aware if a health check-up is necessary for porting to the new policy. Complete any required tests on time.
Reach out to the insurer of the new if you have any queries or concerns. Clear all doubts before making a decision.
Switching from a group health insurance plan to an individual cover in India is a smart move to take control of your health coverage. Let's break it down into simple steps.
| Steps | Details |
| Step 1: Understand Your Group Health Insurance | Firstly, take a good look at your group health insurance policy. Understand what it covers, the benefits, and limitations. This will help you decide what you need in your individual plan. |
| Step 2: Evaluate Your Health Needs | Think about your specific health needs. Do you have a pre-existing condition or anticipate any particular health requirements in the future? Understanding this will help you in choosing the right individual health insurance plan. |
| Step 3: Research Individual Health Insurance Plans | Start exploring different individual health insurance plans available in the market. Look for plans that align with your health needs and financial capabilities. Compare features, premiums, coverage, and exclusions. |
| Step 4: Contact Insurance Providers | Reach out to insurance providers and get detailed information about the plans you're interested in. Understand the terms and conditions, especially regarding waiting periods, exclusions, and claim procedures. |
| Step 5: Choose the Best Plan | Based on your research and understanding, choose the health insurance plan that suits you best. Ensure it covers all the essential aspects that are important to you. |
| Step 6: Apply for Individual Health Insurance | Fill out the application form for the selected individual health insurance plan. Submit all required documents and complete any medical tests if necessary. |
| Step 7: Wait for Approval | Once you've applied, the insurance company will review your application. Approval times vary, so be patient. In the meantime, ensure you've cancelled your group insurance. |
| Step 8: Switch Over | Once your individual health insurance is approved, it's time to switch over completely. Inform your employer or group insurance provider about your decision and confirm the cancellation of your group insurance. |
Focusing only on current needs can lead to inadequate coverage in the future. Opt for a policy that has the flexibility to upgrade coverage based on the changes in your needs.
Be aware if a health check-up is necessary for porting to the new policy. Complete any required tests on time.
Reach out to the insurer of the new if you have any queries or concerns. Clear all doubts before making a decision.
Ensure that the new policy adequately provides for your current and future healthcare needs.
Health insurance portability greatly relieves people who are unsatisfied with their current health plan or searching for better health coverage. It helps people easily transition to a new health provider who can offer them much better health coverage without losing some precious benefits. Indeed, portability provides apparent benefits, but thoughtful analysis while considering and avoiding any waiting period will help maximise your health insurance to provide maximum protection, flexibility, and value.
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Reviewed by Dr. Harshita Dahiya 
Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on industry experience and several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes. Please go through the applicable policy wordings for updated ACKO-centric content, and before making any insurance-related decisions.
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