How to Port Your Health Insurance (Step by Step)
- You can port health insurance to any insurer at annual renewal - waiting period credits transfer
- Submit porting request to the new insurer at least 45 days before current policy expires
- Cannot port after policy lapses - always initiate well before the expiry date
- The new insurer cannot reduce your completed waiting period credits
- Best time to port: when premiums jumped at renewal or after a bad claim experience
Health insurance portability in India is your right under IRDAI regulations. If your current insurer raised premiums unfairly, has poor claim service, or you found a better plan elsewhere - you can switch. Critically, your waiting period credits go with you. Three years served means three years credited with the new insurer.
Porting Process - Step by Step
| Step | Action | Timeline | Important Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Research and decide new insurer and plan | 30-60 days before expiry | Compare thoroughly before deciding |
| 2 | Submit porting request to new insurer | 45 days before policy expiry | Cannot be done after expiry |
| 3 | Current insurer sends info to IIB portal | Within 3 working days | Happens automatically |
| 4 | New insurer reviews your application | 7-15 days | They can reject for medical risk |
| 5 | Policy issued by new insurer | Before current policy expires | No gap in coverage |
The key rule: submit the porting request to the NEW insurer at least 45 days before your current policy expires. The new insurer contacts the Insurance Information Bureau (IIB) to verify your claim history. They can reject your application for high claims or high medical risk - but they cannot reduce your completed waiting period credit.
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What Transfers When You Port
- Waiting period credit: All completed waiting periods (PED, specific illness) carry forward to the new insurer
- Sum insured continuity: You can port at the same or higher sum insured
- No Claim Bonus: Your NCB transfers to the equivalent discount level at the new insurer
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I port health insurance any time?
No - porting can only be done at annual renewal. Initiate the process at least 45 days before your current policy expires.
Can the new insurer reject my porting request?
The new insurer can reject if you have high claims history or undisclosed medical conditions. They cannot reduce the waiting period credits you have already earned.
Will my premium change when I port?
The new insurer quotes their standard premium for your age and cover amount. Your accumulated NCB equivalent should be applied. Premiums may be higher or lower.
What transfers and what does not?
Transfers: waiting period credits, NCB equivalent, sum insured continuity. Does not transfer: specific loyalty benefits, outstanding disputes with old insurer.
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