How to Register as a New PhilHealth Member
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is the national health insurance program of the Philippines. Under the Universal Health Care Act (Republic Act No. 11223), signed into law on February 20, 2019, all Filipino citizens are automatically entitled to PhilHealth coverage. However, you must formally register with PhilHealth to obtain your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) and access the full range of health insurance benefits. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire registration process, the documents you need, and what to expect at every step.
PhilHealth Registration at a Glance
Cost
FREE. PhilHealth registration does not require any payment. There is no filing fee, processing fee, or registration fee. You only start paying monthly contributions after you are registered and employed or self-employed.
Processing Time
Same day. If you submit a complete PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) with all required documents at a PhilHealth office, your registration is typically processed on the same day. You will receive your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) immediately or within a few hours.
Key Fact
Under RA 11223, all Filipinos are automatically enrolled in the National Health Insurance Program. However, you must still register formally to receive your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN), which is required when availing of PhilHealth benefits at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
PhilHealth Membership Categories
PhilHealth classifies its members into different categories based on their employment status and capacity to pay contributions. Understanding your membership category is the first step in registration, as it determines your contribution rate and the documents you need to submit.
Direct Contributors
Members who pay premiums
Members with the capacity to pay monthly contributions. Premiums are shared between employee and employer for those employed, or fully shouldered by the member if self-employed.
- Employees in private and government sectors
- Self-employed and professionals
- Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
- Kasambahay (household helpers)
- Filipinos with dual citizenship
Indirect Contributors
Subsidized by government
Members whose premiums are subsidized partially or fully by the national or local government. These members are identified through the National Household Targeting System (Listahanan) or through local government programs.
- Indigent members (identified by DSWD)
- Senior citizens (RA 9994)
- Persons with disability (RA 7277)
- Sponsored members (by LGU or private entity)
- Beneficiaries of 4Ps program
Lifetime Members
No more premium payments
Members who have reached the age of 60 and have paid at least 120 monthly contributions are considered Lifetime Members. They and their qualified dependents continue to enjoy PhilHealth benefits without further premium payments.
- At least 60 years old
- Minimum 120 monthly contributions paid
- No further premium payments required
- Full benefits for member and dependents
Requirements for PhilHealth Registration
Prepare the following documents before visiting a PhilHealth office. Having complete requirements will ensure same-day processing of your registration.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) | The official registration form (PhilHealth Form). You can download the PMRF from the PhilHealth website at www.philhealth.gov.ph or pick up a copy at any PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO). Fill out all fields completely and accurately. Use black ink. |
| Valid ID (at least one) | Present at least one valid government-issued ID with photo and signature. Acceptable IDs include: Philippine passport, driver's license, PhilSys (National ID), UMID, SSS ID, PRC ID, voter's ID, postal ID, senior citizen's ID, PWD ID, NBI clearance, police clearance, barangay ID, school ID (for students), or company ID with valid government ID. |
| Birth Certificate | PSA-issued (Philippine Statistics Authority) birth certificate or certified true copy from the Local Civil Registrar (LCR). This is used to verify your date of birth, full name, and citizenship. Bring the original and a photocopy. |
| 1x1 or 2x2 ID Photo | Recent ID photo (taken within the last 6 months) with white background. Some PhilHealth offices require 1x1 size, while others accept 2x2. It is recommended to bring at least two copies of each size. |
| Supporting Documents (by category) |
|
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Follow these six steps to register as a new PhilHealth member. The entire process can be completed in a single visit if you have all the required documents.
Determine Your Membership Category
Before anything else, identify which membership category you fall under. This determines the specific supporting documents you need and how your contributions will be handled. If you are employed, your employer will typically handle registration. If you are self-employed, a voluntary member, or an OFW, you will register on your own. Indigent members, senior citizens, and PWDs are usually enrolled through their respective government programs (DSWD, OSCA, or LGU).
Tip: If you are unsure about your membership category, visit the nearest PhilHealth office or call the PhilHealth Action Center at (02) 8441-7442 for guidance. They can help determine the most appropriate category for your situation.
Get a PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF)
Obtain a PMRF through any of the following methods: (a) Download it from the official PhilHealth website at www.philhealth.gov.ph under the "Downloads" or "Member Services" section; (b) Pick up a physical copy at any PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) or PhilHealth Express outlet; or (c) Request one from your employer's HR department if you are newly hired.
Important: Make sure you are using the latest version of the PMRF. PhilHealth periodically updates the form, and older versions may not be accepted.
Fill Out the PMRF Completely
Complete all sections of the PMRF with accurate information. Use black ink and write legibly in block letters. The form requires the following information:
- Full name (last name, first name, middle name, name extension)
- Date of birth, place of birth, sex, civil status
- Citizenship, mother's maiden name, father's name
- Complete permanent and mailing address with ZIP code
- Contact number, email address
- TIN (Tax Identification Number), if available
- SSS or GSIS number, if available
- Membership type and employment status
- Employer information (if employed) -- company name, PhilHealth Employer Number (PEN), address
- Declaration of dependents (spouse, children, parents)
Tip: Double-check all entries, especially your name spelling, date of birth, and contact information. Errors in the PMRF may cause delays or issues when availing benefits. Ensure your name matches exactly as it appears on your birth certificate and valid ID.
Gather All Supporting Documents
Prepare all the required documents based on your membership category (see the Requirements Table above). At minimum, you will need: the completed PMRF, a valid government-issued ID, your PSA or LCR birth certificate, and an ID photo. Additional documents depend on your membership category. Bring both originals and photocopies of all documents.
Important: Incomplete documents are the most common reason for delayed registration. Make sure to have everything ready before visiting the PhilHealth office.
Submit at a PhilHealth Office or Register Online
You have two options for submitting your registration:
Option A: Walk-in at PhilHealth Office
Visit any PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) or PhilHealth Regional Office near you. Submit your accomplished PMRF together with all supporting documents. The staff will review your documents, encode your information, and process your registration. Office hours are generally Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Option B: Online via PHERS
Register online through the PhilHealth Electronic Registration System (PHERS) at the official PhilHealth website. Fill out the online form, upload scanned copies of your documents, and submit. You will receive a confirmation and your PIN via email. Note: You may still need to visit a PhilHealth office to validate your registration.
For employed members: Your employer typically handles registration on your behalf. They will submit the PMRF and documents to PhilHealth under their company's PhilHealth Employer Number (PEN). Check with your HR department.
Receive Your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN)
Once your registration is processed, PhilHealth will issue your unique PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN). This is your permanent PhilHealth member number that you will use for all PhilHealth transactions -- availing benefits, paying contributions, registering dependents, and more. The PIN is typically issued on the same day of registration if you process in person.
Important: Write down or save your PIN immediately. You will need this number every time you use PhilHealth services. You can also verify your PIN and check your membership status through the PhilHealth Member Portal at www.philhealth.gov.ph.
Online Registration via PHERS
PhilHealth offers online registration through the PhilHealth Electronic Registration System (PHERS). This is especially convenient for those who cannot immediately visit a PhilHealth office.
How to Register Online via PHERS
Go to the official PhilHealth website at www.philhealth.gov.ph and navigate to the Electronic Registration section under Member Services.
Click on "New Member Registration" or "PhilHealth Electronic Registration System (PHERS)" to access the online registration form.
Fill out all required fields in the online form: personal information, contact details, membership type, employment information, and dependent information (if applicable).
Upload scanned copies or clear photos of your supporting documents: valid ID, birth certificate, and category-specific documents.
Review all information for accuracy, then submit the online form. You will receive a confirmation email or transaction number for tracking.
Your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) will be sent to your registered email address once your registration is processed. You may be asked to visit the nearest PhilHealth office for validation or to present original documents.
Note: The PHERS online system may experience downtime during maintenance periods. If you encounter errors, try again after a few hours or visit a PhilHealth office instead.
Real-World Example: Maria Registers as a PhilHealth Member
Maria, 24 years old, just got hired as a customer service representative at a BPO company in Makati City. As a newly employed worker, her employer requires PhilHealth registration. Here is how Maria completed her registration step by step:
Downloaded and Filled Out the PMRF
Maria downloaded the PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) from the PhilHealth website. She filled it out completely at home using black ink, including her personal information, her new employer's details (company name, PEN number provided by HR), and her mother as her dependent. She also prepared photocopies of her documents.
Submitted Documents to HR Department
Maria submitted the following to her company's HR department: the accomplished PMRF, photocopy of her PSA birth certificate, photocopy of her Philippine passport (as valid ID), and two 1x1 ID photos. Her HR officer reviewed the documents for completeness and confirmed everything was in order. The HR department handles batch submission to PhilHealth for all new employees.
Employer Submitted to PhilHealth
Maria's employer submitted her PMRF and documents to the PhilHealth LHIO in Makati City along with the registration forms of other new hires. The employer used their PhilHealth Employer Number (PEN) for the submission. PhilHealth processed the batch registration.
Received PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN)
Within a few days, Maria's HR department informed her that her PhilHealth registration was complete. She received her PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN): a 12-digit number that she noted down and saved on her phone. Her HR also explained that PhilHealth contributions would be automatically deducted from her salary every month, with the company matching her share.
PhilHealth Contributions Started
On her first paycheck, Maria saw the PhilHealth contribution deduction. Under the current premium rate of 5% of basic monthly salary (split 50-50 between employee and employer), her share was automatically computed and deducted. Maria is now a fully registered PhilHealth member and can use her benefits at any PhilHealth- accredited hospital or clinic nationwide.
Cost Summary for Maria's Registration
PhilHealth registration is completely free. The only minor costs are for photocopies and ID photos, which are incidental. Total timeline from PMRF submission to receiving PIN: 1-5 working days (or same day if walk-in).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register for PhilHealth online?
Yes. PhilHealth offers online registration through the PhilHealth Electronic Registration System (PHERS) on their official website at www.philhealth.gov.ph. You can fill out the online registration form and upload scanned copies of your required documents. However, you may still need to visit a PhilHealth office to present original documents for verification. For employed members, the employer typically handles registration through PhilHealth's employer portal.
What if I lost or forgot my PhilHealth ID Number (PIN)?
You can retrieve your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) through several ways: (1) Check your PhilHealth Member Data Record (MDR) online through the PhilHealth website; (2) Send an email inquiry to actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph with your complete name, date of birth, and other identifying information; (3) Call the PhilHealth Action Center at (02) 8441-7442 or the toll-free number 1-800-10-7442-273; (4) Visit any PhilHealth LHIO with a valid ID to request your PIN; or (5) Ask your current or former employer, as they should have a record of your PhilHealth number.
How soon can I use my PhilHealth benefits after registration?
Under the Universal Health Care Act (RA 11223), all registered PhilHealth members are immediately entitled to inpatient and outpatient benefits. However, to avail of the full benefit package, you must have at least three (3) monthly contributions paid within the last six (6) months prior to the date of confinement or availment for employed and self-employed members. For indigent members and other government-subsidized categories, benefits are available immediately upon registration as their premiums are paid by the government.
Can OFWs register for PhilHealth?
Yes. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are classified as Direct Contributors under PhilHealth. OFWs can register at any PhilHealth office in the Philippines before departure, or through the PhilHealth overseas offices and partner offices abroad. Required documents include a valid passport, OFW ID or Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), and an authenticated employment contract. OFWs can also register through the PhilHealth website. Under RA 11223, OFW membership in PhilHealth is mandatory but the payment of premiums is voluntary for land-based OFWs (as ruled by the Supreme Court) and mandatory for sea-based OFWs.
What about senior citizens -- do they need to register separately?
Senior citizens (aged 60 and above) are automatically covered under PhilHealth through the national government's subsidy as mandated by RA 9994 (Expanded Senior Citizens Act) and RA 11223 (UHC Act). If a senior citizen is not yet registered, they can register at any PhilHealth office by presenting their senior citizen's ID or OSCA certification, along with the standard PMRF and valid ID. Their premiums are fully subsidized by the national government, so they do not need to pay any contributions. If a senior citizen was previously a paying member with at least 120 monthly contributions, they qualify as a Lifetime Member.
Is PhilHealth registration mandatory?
Yes. Under the Universal Health Care Act (RA 11223), all Filipino citizens and permanent residents are automatically members of the National Health Insurance Program. While the law provides for automatic enrollment, formal registration is necessary to obtain your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN), which is required to avail of benefits. Employers are legally required to register their employees with PhilHealth and remit contributions. Self-employed individuals and professionals are also required to register and pay contributions based on their income.
Can I register my dependents at the same time?
Yes. The PMRF has a section for declaring your qualified dependents. You can list your legal spouse, children below 21 years old (or up to 25 if still studying), and parents who are 60 years old and above and not members themselves. Simply fill in their complete names, dates of birth, and relationship to you. Attach birth certificates or marriage certificates as supporting documents for your dependents. They will be covered under your PhilHealth membership.
What is the current PhilHealth contribution rate?
The current PhilHealth premium rate is 5% of the monthly basic salary, shared equally (50-50) between the employee and employer. For example, if your monthly salary is P20,000, the total monthly contribution is P1,000 -- P500 from you and P500 from your employer. For self-employed and voluntary members, the contribution is based on declared monthly income. There is a minimum monthly floor and a maximum salary ceiling set by PhilHealth. For OFWs, the premium rate follows the schedule set by PhilHealth for their income bracket. Check the PhilHealth website for the latest premium contribution table.
Important Reminders
- Registration is FREE: PhilHealth does not charge any fee for new member registration. Be wary of fixers or unauthorized persons who may ask for payment to process your registration. Always transact directly with PhilHealth offices or through your employer.
- One member, one PIN: Each person should only have one PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN). If you have been registered more than once (e.g., by different employers), request a consolidation of records at any PhilHealth office to merge your records under a single PIN. Having multiple PINs can cause problems when availing benefits.
- Keep your records updated: If you change jobs, address, civil status, or have new dependents, update your PhilHealth Member Data Record (MDR) promptly. You can update your MDR at any PhilHealth LHIO or through the PhilHealth website.
- Maintain contributions to avail benefits: For employed and self-employed members, ensure that your PhilHealth contributions are paid regularly. You generally need at least three (3) monthly contributions within the last six (6) months to be eligible for the full benefit package.
- Your dependents are covered under your membership: Qualified dependents (spouse, children under 21 or 25 if studying, parents aged 60 and above) can avail of PhilHealth benefits under your membership. Make sure to declare them in your PMRF or update your MDR.
- Use only PhilHealth-accredited facilities: To maximize your PhilHealth benefits, always seek treatment at PhilHealth-accredited hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers. You can check the list of accredited facilities on the PhilHealth website or by calling the PhilHealth Action Center.
- Bring your PhilHealth ID or PIN when seeking medical care: Always present your PhilHealth ID, MDR printout, or at minimum your PIN number when you are admitted to a hospital or availing of outpatient services. This ensures that your PhilHealth benefits are applied to reduce your hospital bills.
- Beware of scams and fixers: Only transact with official PhilHealth offices, the official PhilHealth website (www.philhealth.gov.ph), or through your employer's HR department. Do not share your personal information or PIN with unauthorized individuals.
Need Help?
Contact PhilHealth
- PhilHealth Action Center Hotline: (02) 8441-7442
- Toll-Free Number: 1-800-10-7442-273 (PHIC)
- Email: actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph
- Website: www.philhealth.gov.ph
- Head Office: PhilHealth Main Office, Citystate Centre, 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City 1603
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (no noon break)
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the PhilHealth you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest PhilHealth first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.