Updated on - 20 Feb 2026
As an NRI (Non-Resident Indian), you may often worry about the health and well-being of your ageing parents living in India. With increasing medical costs and health risks, especially for senior citizens, buying a suitable health insurance policy for parents is a wise and thoughtful decision. This blog will help you understand how NRIs can get health insurance for their parents in India.
Can NRIs buy health insurance for their parents living in India?
Yes, most Indian insurance companies allow NRIs to purchase a policy online or through authorised representatives. However, the policy should be issued in the name of the parents, who must be residents of India. This means the health insurance is for Indian citizens residing in India, even if the premium is paid by someone living abroad.
Tax benefits on health insurance plans for NRI parents
Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, NRIs can claim tax deductions for the health insurance premium paid for their parents, provided they earn income in India and file income tax returns there. You can claim up to ₹50,000 per year for parents under 60.
To claim these deductions, the premium must be paid from your Indian bank account, either by yourself or your parents, and not in foreign currency.
Benefits of buying health insurance policy for NRI parents
Here are some key benefits of buying a health insurance policy for your parents in India:
1. Financial security
Healthcare expenses can quickly add up, especially for critical illnesses or hospitalisation. With a healthcare policy, your parents can receive quality treatment without worrying about the monetary burden. The insurance policy will cover expenses related to hospitalisation, surgery, medicines, and other medical procedures, thereby providing financial security.
2. Cashless treatment
Most health policies provide cashless treatment facilities in one of the network hospitals. That means your parents can receive medical care without any upfront payment. This benefit is especially crucial in emergencies when there may not be enough time to arrange cash or insurance reimbursements.
3. Coverage for pre-existing conditions
Older adults are more likely to have pre-existing medical conditions, making it challenging to find a suitable healthcare policy. However, many insurance providers offer policies that cover pre-existing ailments following the completion of a waiting period.
How to buy health insurance for NRI parents in India?
Buying health insurance for your parents in India as an NRI is straightforward:
- Compare policies: Use online comparison websites or insurer portals to compare various plans.
- Check eligibility: Ensure the policy covers the age group of your parents, especially if they are senior citizens.
- Choose the right plan: Look for features like lifetime renewability, pre-existing disease cover and room rent limits.
- Online application: Fill out the application form online and provide the necessary KYC documents.
- Medical tests: Depending on age and medical history, your parents may need to undergo a health check-up.
- Premium payment: Pay the premium through an Indian bank account or an international card, as allowed by the insurer.
- Policy issuance: Once approved, the policy documents will be emailed and/or couriered to your parents in India.
How to renew health insurance for NRI parents in India?
Most health insurance policies in India are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Renewal is simple and can usually be done online:
- Log in to the insurer’s portal or app
- Enter the policy details
- Review any changes in coverage or premium
- Make the payment online
Things to consider while buying health insurance for NRI parents
Here are some important points to consider:
- Age limits: Choose plans that cater to the specific age of your parents. Senior citizen health insurance plans typically start at age 60 and may go up to 75 or 80.
- Pre-existing diseases: Check the waiting period and coverage offered for pre-existing health conditions.
- Network hospitals: Ensure there are cashless hospitals near your parents' location.
- No-claim bonus (NCB): Look for policies that offer NCB benefits, which increase the sum insured if there are no claims.
- Co-payment clause: Some senior citizen plans have copay requirements, meaning a part of the hospital bill must be paid by the insured.
Conclusion
Health insurance for NRI parents is not only possible but also highly beneficial. With the growing range of senior citizen health insurance plans available, you can find a policy that fits your parents’ medical needs and financial security. Make sure to do thorough research, understand the policy features and choose a plan that ensures your loved ones are well protected even when you’re miles away.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.