Health insurance renewal in Israel
Health insurance in Israel is primarily managed through the National Health Insurance Law, ensuring all residents are members of one of four public health funds (Kupot Cholim). Renewal is generally automatic for residents; however, individuals may choose to switch funds annually or update their plans with supplementary insurance (Bituach Mashlim).
While basic health insurance membership is continuous for Israeli residents, individuals considering switching health funds or adjusting supplementary insurance plans typically do so during specific periods or after understanding waiting periods for new benefits. It is advisable to review options a few months before a desired change to allow for research and understanding of new terms.
Start 90 days ahead
This lead time allows for researching different health funds and supplementary insurance plans, understanding waiting periods for new benefits, and completing any necessary administrative steps for switching funds, which can take up to 60 days to process.
The process
- 1Confirm current health fund membership and any supplementary insurance plans.
- 2Review the benefits and services offered by the current health fund and supplementary plan.
- 3Research alternative health funds and their basic and supplementary insurance offerings, comparing services, clinics, and specialists.
- 4If planning to switch health funds, initiate the transfer process either online or through designated post office branches. Transfers typically occur on specific dates throughout the year.
- 5If updating supplementary insurance within the current fund, contact the fund directly to explore available options and make changes.
- 6Ensure all personal details and residency status are up-to-date with the chosen health fund.
What to bring
- Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card)
- Proof of residency status if recently immigrated or changed status (e.g., Aliyah certificate, visa)
- Previous health fund membership details (if applicable)
Who handles it
Ministry of Health (משרד הבריאות), Kupot Cholim (קופות חולים - Health Funds)
https://www.gov.il/en/service/choose_a_health_fund
Basic health insurance contributions are automatically deducted from salaries or social security benefits based on income, as mandated by the National Health Insurance Law. Costs for supplementary insurance (Bituach Mashlim) vary significantly by plan, age, and health fund, and are paid directly to the chosen health fund. Specific fees should be confirmed directly with the health funds.
What commonly goes wrong
- Switching health funds can involve waiting periods for certain benefits, especially for supplementary insurance plans.
- Reviewing supplementary insurance plans is important, as coverage and costs can change or vary greatly between funds.
- Ensure contact details and address are current with the health fund to receive important communications.
- If not an Israeli resident (e.g., temporary resident, tourist), different health insurance rules and private insurance options apply, which should be investigated separately.
Sources
Other documents in Israel
Health insurance renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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