How does health insurance portability work?

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Health insurance portability allows a policyholder to switch their existing health insurance policy from one insurance company to another without losing their benefits, such as waiting period, no claim bonus credits.


How Does the Portability Process Work?


Here are the simple steps by which you can easily port your health insurance policy:


Step 1:


Submit a portability request: First, you have to inform your current health insurance provider that you want to port your policy. Once informed, submit a portability form to the new insurance company.


Step 2:


Share policy details and health status: You need to submit your existing policy certificates, such as past claims, medical history, etc., to the new provider. The details will be shared through the IRDAI portability portal.


Step 3:


Underwriting by the new insurer: Once all the information is provided, your new health insurance provider will verify all the details, such as your age, health condition, claim history, and previous coverage. After verification, he will decide whether he needs to accept or reject your application.


Step 4:


Approval and issuance of new policy: If your request is approved by the new insurer, the policy will be issued, and your benefits will be carried forward.


When should I port my health insurance policy?


Health insurance portability is allowed only at the time of policy renewal. You need to submit the request at least 45 days before the renewal. However, some scenarios when you should consider porting your health insurance policy:



  • If you are not satisfied with the services provided by the current insurer.

  • If you get lower premiums somewhere else

  • Poor customer support

  • Unsatisfactory claim settlement process

  • Delayed reimbursements process

  • Room rent limits or sub-limits


What documents do I need to submit to port my health insurance policy?


Here is the list of documents you may need to submit:


Documents required from policyholder:



  • ID card (such as PAN card, Aadhar card or passport)

  • Address proof

  • Current health insurance policy papers

  • Latest renewal notice (where it is clearly mentioned that there is continuity in coverage)

  • Discharge summary documents or investigation report( if any claim is submitted)


Documents you need from the new health insurance provider are:



  • Proposal form

  • Portability form


Final Thoughts


Health insurance portability is an option that offers policyholders the freedom to move from one insurer to another while holding earned benefits.