How to Register For NHIS

Do you want to register for health insurance programme with NHIS?

The National Health Insurance Scheme is a social health insurance programme designed by the Federal Government of Nigeria to complement sources of financing the health sector and to improve access to health care for the majority of Nigerians.

All Nigerians, including employees, self-employed individuals, students, and retirees are eligible to register for NHIS and there are different packages available to suit individual needs.

In this article, we will walk you through how to register with NHIS online and at accredited centers.

NHIS Programmes in Nigeria

The National Health Insurance Scheme has developed various programmes to cover different segments of the society. They include the following:

• Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Programme (FSSHIP) – for public and private sector employees
• Informal Sector Social Health Insurance Programme (ISSHIP) – for artisans, traders, farmers, and self-employed individuals
• Voluntary Contributors Social Health Insurance Programme (VCSHIP) – for individuals who wish to join on a voluntary basis
• Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) – for students in tertiary institutions
• Retirees Health Insurance Programme – for individuals who have exited formal employment

Method 1: How to register for the NHIS at Accredited Centers

Registration with NHIS varies and it depends on the programme chosen.

If you’re not enrolled through an employer, you can register personally at an NHIS-accredited healthcare provider.

The following step will put you through the process;

Locate an NHIS-Accredited Healthcare Provider

NHIS accredited hospitals and healthcare providers are accessible in nearly every community throughout Nigeria. 

To register with NHIS, locate a nearby accredited facility and express your intention to enroll with NHIS.

Enrollment Form

Upon visiting the NHIS-accredited healthcare provider, you will be given an enrollment form to complete. 

This form includes essential personal details such as your name, address, and contact information. 

It is crucial to accurately fill in this information. 

Once you have completed the form, submit it to the NHIS-accredited healthcare provider. They will then verify the information provided and proceed to register you for NHIS, ensuring you are enrolled in the healthcare scheme.

Pay The NHIS Premium

You will be required to pay the NHIS premium which represents the amount you are required to contribute either on a monthly or annual basis to sustain your NHIS coverage.

The premium for the formal sector social health insurance program is paid by the employer and employee, while the premiums for the informal sector social health insurance program and the voluntary contributors social health insurance program are paid by the subscriber ^[1] .

The specific premium amount varies according to the package you choose that aligns with your healthcare needs.

Method 2: Register with NHIS through your employer

If you are affiliated with the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Program (FSSHIP), registering with NHIS is often handled by your employer.

If you are affiliated with the Formal Sector Social Health Insurance Program (FSSHIP), you will be automatically enrolled in NHIS by your employer. Your employer collects and submits your details to NHIS

• Your employer collects and submits your details to NHIS
• Deductions are made from your salary as contributions to the scheme
• You’ll receive an NHIS ID and can select an NHIS-accredited hospital
• Your spouse and up to four biological children under 18 can also be covered

This means you don't need to individually register, as employers typically take care of the enrollment process for all their employees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is eligible for NHIS?

NHIS is open to everyone. Federal and state government employees, private sector workers, self-employed individuals, students in tertiary institutions, retirees and voluntary contributors, e.t.c.

How much does NHIS cost?

There is no fixed amount. Costs vary based on:

• The programme type (FSSHIP, ISSHIP, VCSHIP)
• Your healthcare needs and number of dependents
• Premiums are either monthly or yearly

Ask your provider for the exact premium for your package.

Can I Register Online?

For now, NHIS doesn’t currently offer a full self-service online registration but you can visit www.nhis.gov.ng and check their “Enrollee” or “Programs” sections or use the “Contact Us” to find more information about your location’s registration procedures

Some providers may also support partial digital registration, followed by a physical visit for verification.

Can I choose my hospital?

Yes. you can select your preferred NHIS-accredited hospital near your location.

Can I register my family under NHIS?

Yes. You can register a family under NHIS as Most packages allow coverage for:

• A spouse
• Up to four children under 18
• Additional dependents may be added at extra cost

Can I change my NHIS hospital later?

Yes. You can change your hospital.