Health insurance renewal in Russia
Renewing compulsory medical insurance (OMI/OMS) in Russia typically involves contacting the insurance company that issued the original policy to update personal details or obtain a new physical policy if needed. For voluntary medical insurance (VMI/DMS), renewal depends on the terms of the individual contract with the insurance provider.
It is generally advisable to initiate the renewal process for compulsory medical insurance policies a few weeks before the stated expiration date to ensure continuous coverage. For voluntary medical insurance, policyholders often need to renew annually, and insurance companies may offer renewal discounts or require a new agreement negotiation in advance of the current policy's end date.
Start 30 days ahead
This lead time accounts for potential processing delays, appointment scheduling if required, or time to compare offers for voluntary medical insurance.
The process
- 1Identify the type of health insurance policy (Compulsory Medical Insurance - OMI/OMS, or Voluntary Medical Insurance - VMI/DMS).
- 2Locate the insurance company that issued the current policy.
- 3Contact the insurance company directly via their website, phone, or in-person office to inquire about renewal procedures.
- 4For OMI policies, confirm if a new physical policy is required or if the existing electronic record is sufficient. Update any personal data if there have been changes.
- 5For VMI policies, review the terms of the existing contract and discuss renewal options, including any changes to coverage or cost, with the insurance company.
- 6Provide any necessary updated documents or information as requested by the insurer.
- 7Receive and verify the renewed policy or confirmation of extended coverage.
What to bring
- Current health insurance policy (OMI or VMI card/document)
- Identity document (e.g., passport, birth certificate for children)
- SNILS (insurance number of individual ledger account) for OMI
- Proof of registration/residency (for foreign citizens, if applicable)
Who handles it
Федеральный фонд обязательного медицинского страхования (FFOMS) / Federal Compulsory Medical Insurance Fund
Compulsory Medical Insurance (OMI) is free for Russian citizens and certain categories of foreign residents. Voluntary Medical Insurance (VMI) premiums vary widely based on the coverage selected, the insurance company, the age of the insured, and the region. The exact cost should be confirmed directly with the chosen VMI provider.
What commonly goes wrong
- For OMI, ensure personal data (name, address, passport details) are up-to-date with the insurance company, especially after changing an identity document.
- VMI policies often require active renewal and payment; failure to do so can result in a lapse of coverage.
- If changing insurance companies for OMI, there might be specific application periods or rules to follow.
- Foreign citizens may have specific requirements for OMI eligibility or may need to rely on VMI.
Sources
Other documents in Russia
Health insurance renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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