Nigeria just made health insurance mandatory for foreign workers. This new rule started on March 1, 2024. All non-Nigerians living or working in the country must now get health coverage. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) set up this plan.
The goal is to ensure everyone has access to basic healthcare. This includes you if you are a foreign employee in Nigeria. The government wants to create a strong social safety net. They believe everyone should contribute to and benefit from the national health scheme.
Nigeria’s New Health Insurance Rules
The new health insurance costs N15,000 per year. That’s about $10 US dollars. This small fee provides important health benefits. It covers basic medical services. You can get primary and secondary healthcare. This means visits to a general doctor and specialist care.
The NHIA Act 2022 brought this change. President Tinubu’s government supports it strongly. They aim for universal health coverage across Nigeria. This policy helps reach that goal. It makes sure foreign residents are also part of the system.
You must pay this fee. It is now part of living and working there. For more details on the national scheme, check the official NHIA website.
How Foreign Employees Get Covered
Getting this insurance is now a must. The government will check this during important processes. For example, you need it for visa renewals. It is also needed for your residence permits. Without it, you might face issues with your stay.
You can pay for the insurance online. There is a special NHIA portal. Dedicated banks also handle payments. This makes the process simple for you. The system ensures compliance for all foreign workers. It offers peace of mind knowing you have basic health protection.
This move shows Nigeria’s focus on public health. It aims to improve healthcare for all residents. This includes foreign professionals contributing to the nation’s economy. The insurance helps build a more inclusive health system.
It supports the health of everyone in Nigeria.
Do you know what the NHIA Act 2022 covers? It lays the foundation for this type of universal access. You can learn more about the broader act here: Nigeria’s New Health Insurance Law.
