How to apply for NHIF

The National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) is the primary provider of health insurance in Kenya. It main mandate is to enable all Kenyans to access quality and affordable health services. It is established under Section 3 of the National Hospital Insurance Fund Act.

For those who are employed (formal sector), it is compulsory to be a NHIF member. For those in the informal sector (self-employed) or retirees, membership is voluntary.

How to apply

Offline application

1. Visit NHIF official website- http://www.nhif.or.ke/
2. Select Employed or self- employed.
3. Employee application form will load.
4. Fill all the necessary details honestly and without any errors.
5. Attach all your documents once done. It is advisable to use certified copies whenever possible.
6. Return the form with the attached documents to the NHIF office.
7. To receive your NHIF card after successfully completing the above application and being approved, visit the NHIF office you submitted your documents to.

Online application

1. Visit NHIF official website- http://www.nhif.or.ke/
2. Select Employed or self- employed.
3. Employee application form will load.
4. Fill the form details.
5. Attach copy of identity (ID) card, passport photo, and marriage certificate if you are married.
6. Click save and submit.
7. You will receive an SMS to your number about the status.
8. To receive your NHIF card after successfully completing the above application and being approved, visit any NHIF office or Huduma centre near you.

Documents required

For Kenyans

1. A copy of National ID (including spouse if applicable).
2. Recent coloured passport size photos (including spouse & dependents if applicable).
3. Original & copies of Birth Certificate(s) for dependents.
4. A copy of employer appointment/Introduction Letter (this excludes self-employed or voluntary contributors).

For Foreign Residents

1. Photocopies of passport.
2. Alien certificate or work permit (including spouse if applicable).
3. Coloured passport photo (including spouse & dependents if applicable).

For Foreign Students

1. Photocopy of valid passport.
2. Coloured passport size photo.

How to replace lost NHIF card

If you lost your NHIF card, you can get a replacement by paying Ksh 100 at either National Bank, Equity Bank, Co-op Bank or KCB. Ensure you inform the bank teller you are paying for NHIF card replacement. Once you have paid, present the bank slip to any NHIF branch or Huduma centre to have your replacement printed.

How to add your spouse to your NHIF card (or child)

1. To add your spouse to your NHIF card,
2. Present a copy of your Identity (ID) card and
3. Present a marriage certificate or Affidavit for confirmation of marriage to your NHIF centre or Huduma centre. (www.lawyerwangu.com)
4. For your child, avail his or her birth certificate or a birth notification if they are between 0 to 6 months old.

How to reactivate NHIF card for self- employed

If you are self-employed and have not contributed for twelve months and beyond your card will be deactivated. To can reactivate your NHIF card, pay at least Ksh 1,500 and resume usage of the card after two months (60 days). You can pay through mobile banking or at the bank.