Waiting Period In Health Insurance

A waiting period in health insurance is the time a policyholder must wait before accessing benefits. It varies based on the plan, policy, and insurance type. During this period, claims cannot be raised, and coverage for specific conditions may be restricted.
Waiting Period in Health Insurance: A Detailed Guide
3 mins
12-September-2025

In health insurance, the waiting period is the time you must wait before coverage for specific illnesses or conditions becomes active. You can check the exact waiting period in your policy’s terms and conditions. Ideally, it’s wise to choose a plan with a shorter waiting period so that you can access coverage for those conditions sooner.

What is waiting period in health insurance?

A waiting period is the duration that you must wait after purchasing your health insurance plan before you can claim certain benefits. It is a period that an insurance company demands before offering full coverage. During this period, the insurance company does not pay for certain treatments or illnesses. You will have to wait for the waiting period to end before you can claim coverage for it.

What is survival period in health insurance?

Another concept that people often confuse with waiting period in health insurance is the survival period. The survival period is the minimum period that the insured must live after the diagnosis of specific medical conditions. This especially applies for critical illnesses. The insurer pays the sum insured in the policy only after the survival period gets over.

Different types of waiting period in health insurance

Here are different types of waiting period applied to health insurance:

  • Initial waiting period: When you purchase health insurance, there is an initial waiting period that lasts up to 30 days. During this period, the insurer will not compensate for any claims made by the policyholder. You can make the claims after completing the initial waiting period.
  • Waiting period for Pre-existing Diseases (PED): Pre-existing diseases are diseases that you may have before buying health insurance. These include asthma, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, etc. It is important to disclose pre-existing diseases to the insurer when purchasing the plan. The insurance companies generally impose a waiting period of 2-4 years for specific diseases. The insurers start covering the medical expenses incurred for treatments of pre-existing diseases only after the waiting period gets over.
  • Waiting periods for specific ailments or procedures: Waiting periods also exist for specific illnesses or procedures, such as cataract surgery, bariatric surgery, or hernia, and work similarly. The waiting period for such treatments can vary from one insurance company to another. You should read the policy documents, and the terms and conditions stated on them carefully.
  • Waiting period for maternity benefit: Most health insurance plans have a waiting period of 9 months to 2 years for maternity benefits. Maternity insurance includes prenatal care, delivery and postnatal care, and other related expenses. You can claim coverage for these benefits only after serving the specified waiting period on the policy.
  • Waiting period for accidental hospitalisation : The waiting period for accidental hospitalisation in health insurance is generally brief, typically ranging from 24 to 48 hours. This enables policyholders to access coverage for accidental injuries shortly after obtaining the policy, ensuring timely financial support during medical emergencies.
  • Waiting period for health check-ups: Health insurance policies often include a waiting period before covering routine health check-ups, usually between 30 and 90 days. This period allows insurers to evaluate the insured’s health status and pre-existing conditions, ensuring fair and accurate coverage.
  • Covid-19 waiting period: Health insurance policies typically include a waiting period for Covid-19 coverage, usually ranging from 15 to 30 days. During this period, policyholders cannot make claims related to Covid-19 treatment. This measure helps insurers manage risks while ensuring fair coverage for policyholders.

Health conditions and their waiting periods

Different health conditions have varying waiting periods before coverage becomes applicable. Pre-existing diseases often have a waiting period of 2 to 4 years, while specific treatments, such as maternity benefits or certain surgeries, may have a waiting period ranging from a few months to a few years.

Here’s a quick look at the types of waiting period and its duration.

Health conditions

Waiting period levied

Initial waiting period

30-60 days

Pre-existing diseases

Between 30 days and four years, depending on the insurer.

Maternity benefit

Between 9 months and two years, depending on the insurer.

Accidental coverage

Zero waiting period

Specific illnesses

Between one and two years, depending on the insurer.

How does waiting period work in health insurance?

The waiting period in health insurance refers to the predetermined time frame during which policyholders cannot claim specific benefits. It varies based on the type of treatment, policy terms, and insurer. While accidental hospitalisation typically has a minimal waiting period, pre-existing diseases and certain medical conditions may require policyholders to wait for up to four years before becoming eligible for coverage. Some policies also include shorter waiting periods for specific treatments such as maternity benefits or critical illnesses. Understanding these timelines helps policyholders plan their healthcare expenses effectively and avoid unexpected claim rejections.

Does health insurance allow you to reduce the waiting period?

Yes, some health insurance policies allow you to reduce the waiting period in health insurance by paying an additional premium. Certain insurers also provide a waiting period waiver for pre-existing diseases, enabling policyholders to access benefits sooner. Choosing a plan with shorter waiting periods or opting for employer-provided health insurance can further minimise delays in coverage. It’s always advisable to review the policy terms and conditions carefully to understand the available options for reducing the waiting period in health insurance and ensuring timely access to healthcare benefits.

Why is there a waiting period in health policies?

The waiting period in health insurance is introduced to prevent fraudulent claims and discourage individuals from buying a policy only for immediate treatment of pre-existing conditions. This system allows insurers to manage financial risks effectively while ensuring fairness in policy benefits. By enforcing the waiting period in health insurance, providers can maintain sustainable coverage and safeguard against unethical practices, such as purchasing a policy only when urgent medical treatment is needed.

Pro Tip

Avail hospitalisation and treatment benefits with health insurance plans starting at just Rs. 15*/day.

Difference between survival period and waiting period in health insurance

Here’s a quick look at the difference between survival period and the waiting period in health insurance.

Features

Waiting period

Survival period

Meaning

A duration during which a policyholder cannot claim specific benefits.

The minimum time a policyholder must survive after the diagnosis of the critical illness to claim benefits.

Duration

30 days to four years (depending on the insurer and condition)

Ranges 15-90 days

Policy coverage

You can make claims for treatments specified under waiting period after completing the period.

Policyholders can claim benefits only after surviving the specified period for general illnesses or specific treatments.

Applied to

All types of health insurance policies.

Mostly critical illness policies.


What is cooling off period in health insurance?

The cooling off period in health insurance refers to the duration after a person has recovered from an illness, during which insurers may postpone coverage approval. This period ensures that policyholders are in stable health before availing of health insurance benefits. It differs from a general waiting period, as it specifically applies to recent medical recoveries.

Aspect

Cooling off period

Definition

A temporary period post-recovery before health insurance coverage begins.

Purpose

Ensures individuals have fully recovered before obtaining policy benefits.

Duration

Typically ranges from 15 to 90 days.

Applicability

Applied when an individual has recently recovered from an illness before purchasing a policy.

Impact on coverage

May delay policy approval or restrict certain benefits initially.


Understanding this period helps policyholders plan their health insurance purchases effectively and avoid coverage delays.

Key points that you must know about waiting period in health insurance

Here are some key points you must note about waiting period in health insurance.

  • Be aware of the waiting periods that apply to your health insurance plan.
  • It is essential to disclose pre-existing illnesses and conditions to your insurance company.
  • The waiting period for pre-existing diseases can last up to four years.
  • Read through your policy documents thoroughly to understand your waiting period.
  • Compare best health insurance plans from different insurance providers to find plans with zero waiting period or short waiting periods.
  • It is important to choose a health insurance plan that fits your healthcare needs and budget.
  • Consider opting for long-term health insurance plans to avoid the hassle of renewing the policy annually.

Conclusion

The best way to overcome the hassle of the waiting period in health insurance is to buy a policy at an early age. Many experts recommend purchasing health insurance for young adults since you are less likely to make claims, helping you serve the waiting period smoothly while accumulating a no-claim bonus. Additionally, you can explore zero waiting period health insurance plans, which allow your insurer to cover medical expenses from day one, ensuring immediate access to benefits.

Top Health Insurance Plans

Private Medical Insurance

Group Health Insurance

Family Health Insurance

Mediclaim Insurance

Women Health Insurance

Health Insurance For Parents

Frequently asked questions

What is a ‘zero waiting period’ in health insurance?

A ‘zero waiting period’ in health insurance refers to a policy type where the insurer starts covering the medical expenses from day one of policy inception. This means that there is no waiting period for any illnesses or treatments covered under the policy.

How does the waiting period in health insurance work?

A waiting period typically applies to pre-existing diseases, maternity benefits, specific ailments, or procedures. During this period, the policyholder cannot make a claim, and the insurer does not pay for these medical expenses. Once the waiting period gets over, the policyholder can claim benefits for the covered treatments or illnesses. It is crucial to read policy documents thoroughly to understand the waiting period clauses.

Is a health insurance claim admissible if a disease is diagnosed during the plan term?

Yes, a health insurance claim is admissible if a disease is diagnosed during the plan term, provided the disease falls under the policy's terms and conditions. However, the claim will be subject to the policy's terms and conditions, including any applicable waiting period.

Can I eliminate waiting period in health insurance policies?

In most cases, it is not possible to eliminate waiting periods in health insurance policies. Waiting periods are a standard feature of health insurance policies and are designed to prevent insurance fraud and misuse. However, some insurance providers offer policies that have reduced waiting periods, depending on the overall health risk profile of the insured.

What is the main purpose of a waiting period?

The waiting period in health insurance prevents immediate claims for pre-existing conditions and specific treatments, ensuring fair risk management and preventing fraudulent claims by policyholders.

What is the minimum waiting period in health insurance?

The minimum waiting period in health insurance typically ranges from 24 to 48 hours for accidental hospitalisation, allowing quick access to emergency medical coverage.

What is the maximum waiting period in health insurance?

The maximum waiting period can extend up to four years, particularly for pre-existing conditions, before policyholders become eligible for full coverage under their health insurance plan.

What is the 12-month waiting period for pre-existing conditions?

Some health insurance policies impose a 12-month waiting period for pre-existing conditions, during which policyholders cannot claim treatment costs related to their diagnosed medical conditions.

What is a waiting period and when does it apply?

A waiting period is a specified duration after purchasing a policy during which certain benefits are unavailable. It applies to pre-existing conditions, maternity cover, and specific treatments.

What is the waiting period rule?

The waiting period rule in health insurance refers to the fixed duration during which certain illnesses, treatments, or pre-existing conditions are not covered by the policy. Only after this period is over can the policyholder claim benefits for those specific conditions. The length of the waiting period varies depending on the insurer and type of coverage.

Can you get health insurance without a waiting period?

Most health insurance plans have some form of waiting period, especially for pre-existing diseases. However, some insurers offer policies with shorter waiting periods or allow policyholders to reduce or waive them by paying an extra premium. Employer-provided group health insurance may also offer immediate coverage without a waiting period in certain cases.

Show More Show Less

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, New India Assurance Limited, Chola MS General Insurance Company Limited, Zurich Kotak General Insurance Company Limited, Star Health & Allied Insurance Company Limited, Care Health Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited and Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure & policy wordings carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also distributor of other third-party products from Assistance service providers such as CPP Assistance Services Private Limited, Bajaj Finserv Health Limited. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, value added services etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective Insurance company or the respective Assistance provider company.

Note - While we have made all the efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective products sales brochure and policy/membership wordings before concluding sales.