Switching from group health cover to your own policy: how to do it smoothly

Representative image

Many salaried employees enjoy health insurance as part of their job perks. But once you leave the company, that group cover lapses, leaving you exposed unless you already have a personal plan. The good news is that IRDAI rules allow you to port your group health policy into an individual health insurance plan with the same insurer. This way, you don’t lose continuity benefits like waiting periods or pre-existing disease cover.

Group health policies usually end the moment your job does. If you’re between jobs, retiring, or simply moving on, porting ensures your health protection continues without a gap. More importantly, the credit for years already spent under the group plan carries forward, so you don’t have to restart waiting periods all over again.

You need to inform the insurer in writing at least 45 days before your group policy expires. Submit a portability request, and the insurer will guide you on available individual plan options. Once you pick a plan, your medical history and existing cover details are transferred. Your new individual policy then kicks in without breaking continuity.

Porting is not automatic. The insurer still has the right to evaluate your health risk before offering an individual plan. Premiums will usually be higher than in a group plan since they’re based on age, health condition, and sum insured. Also, you can only port to an individual policy from the same insurer — though later you can use normal portability rules to shift between insurers if you like.

If you’re leaving your job, don’t forget to plan for your health cover. Group insurance is great while it lasts, but an individual policy is essential for long-term security. Porting is a smart way to make the transition without losing the benefits you’ve already earned.

No. First you must port it into an individual plan with the same insurer. Later, you can switch insurers using normal portability rules.

No. The credit for time served under your group policy carries forward, so waiting periods for conditions are reduced accordingly.

It depends on your age and health profile. Insurers may ask for fresh tests before approving the individual plan.