How to Port Your Health Insurance to Another Insurer
In this guide
Step-by-step Process
Understand Portability Rights
IRDAI mandates that all health insurers must accept portability requests. When you port, you carry: (a) your accumulated waiting period credits — e.g., if you've completed 2 years, you need only 2 more years at the new insurer; (b) no-claim bonus; (c) continuity of coverage. You can port to any insurer at renewal time (not mid-term).
Apply at Least 45 Days Before Renewal
Start the portability process 45–60 days before your current policy's renewal date. Contact the new insurer you want to switch to. Fill the portability proposal form + health declaration form. Submit your previous policy documents and claim history (past 3 years).
New Insurer Review and Acceptance
The new insurer must respond within 15 days of receiving the complete portability request. They may accept, accept with exclusions for specific conditions, or request medical examination. They cannot reject portability based on age or existing health conditions alone. Premium may be higher based on your health status.
Complete the Switch
Pay the premium for the new policy before your current policy expires. Ensure the new policy start date aligns exactly with the old policy end date (no gap). Receive the new policy document. Cancel auto-renewal on the old policy to avoid double payment. Keep old policy documents for at least 3 years for claim history reference.
Documents Required
- ✓Current health insurance policy document
- ✓Claim history for last 3 years (from current insurer)
- ✓Portability proposal form (new insurer)
- ✓Health declaration form
- ✓Aadhaar card and PAN card
Official Government Portals
Common Questions
Will my premium increase when I port?
The new insurer will price based on your current age, health status, and the new plan's features — not what you were paying before. It may be higher or lower. However, the waiting period credit you carry often makes portability worthwhile even at a slightly higher premium.
Can I increase my sum insured while porting?
Yes. You can increase the sum insured while porting. However, the waiting period credit applies only to the original sum insured. For the enhanced portion, the new insurer may apply fresh waiting periods. For example, if you had ₹5 lakh and port to ₹10 lakh, the extra ₹5 lakh may have fresh waiting periods.
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