Can I Buy Health Insurance From Another State?

Posted on: Jul 9, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Can I Buy Health Insurance From Another State?

Health coverage is one of the most important decisions you make for yourself and your family. You might be moving to a different city or working in another state and wondering, ‘Can I buy health insurance from another state?’ The answer is yes.

In India, health policies are generally portable across states because the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) regulates insurers nationwide. However, you must ensure that your chosen plan has a wide hospital network, cashless treatment facilities and regional service support wherever you move.

Why Health Insurance Is Important

Here’s why having health insurance is essential:

• Safeguards you from rising healthcare costs.

• Covers unexpected hospitalisation expenses.

• Offers cashless treatment at network hospitals.

• Provides tax benefits under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act.

• Gives you peace of mind during health crises.

How to Buy Health Insurance Online in India

Purchasing a health plan online is easy and quick. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit a trusted insurer’s official website.

2. Fill in your personal details.

3. Compare plans that match your needs.

4. Check inclusions, exclusions and network hospitals.

5. Use online calculators to find premium estimates.

6. Submit documents digitally.

7. Make payment securely online.

8. Download your policy instantly.

This process saves time and often offers better deals than buying offline.

Buying Health Insurance From Another State: What You Need to Know

If you are working in a different state or planning to move, here’s what you should check:

• Network hospitals:

Confirm that your insurer has an extensive hospital tie-up in your new city for cashless treatment.

• Regional offices:

Check if the insurer provides support services in your new location.

• Continuous coverage:

If you’re porting your policy, ensure there’s no break in coverage to avoid fresh waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.

• Regulatory compliance:

Always get a policy from IRDAI-approved insurers.

In India, you do not need to buy a separate plan for each state. One valid policy can cover you anywhere in the country if the insurer’s network supports it.

Key Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Policy

Before you finalise your plan, keep these points in mind:

• Coverage amount:

Make sure the sum insured is enough to cover treatment costs in your city.

• Network hospitals:

Check the list to ensure cashless facilities.

• Daycare treatments:

See if minor procedures are covered without hospitalisation.

• Pre-and-post-hospitalisation:

Look for policies that cover expenses before and after hospitalisation.

• Claim settlement ratio:

Prefer insurers with high claim settlement ratios.

• Co-payment clause:

Understand if you need to pay a percentage of medical bills yourself.

These factors help you pick a plan that truly serves your needs.

How to Compare Health Insurance Plans Effectively

Comparing plans can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical tips:

• Use online comparison tools from trusted sources.

• Read the policy wordings carefully.

• Compare premiums for the similar sum insured.

• Check inclusions and exclusions.

• Verify waiting periods for pre-existing illnesses.

• Look for add-ons like critical illness cover or maternity benefits.

Buying Health Insurance for Your Family

Family floater plans are popular among Indian households. Here’s why you should consider them:

• One premium covers all family members.

• Higher sum insured can be shared among members.

• Easier to manage than multiple individual policies.

Tips for buying family plans:

• Include your spouse, children, and parents.

• Choose a sum insured that covers potential high costs.

• Check if the policy offers annual health check-ups.

• Verify maternity and newborn coverage if you are planning a family.

With proper research, you can ensure financial security for your loved ones without burning a hole in your pocket.

Conclusion

Health insurance is an essential safety net that safeguards you and your family from high medical expenses. Whether you live in your home state or have moved elsewhere, you don’t have to worry whether your policy is valid across India if you choose the right provider. Take your time to compare plans, read the fine print and pick a cover that best meets your requirements.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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