How to Apply for PhilHealth ID: 2025 Complete Guide

A PhilHealth ID is more than just proof of government health insurance. It’s a standard requirement in most job applications in the Philippines. Whether you’re applying for your first job, re-entering the workforce, or changing employers, you’ll likely be asked for your PhilHealth ID during pre-employment processing. It’s also your gateway to accessing healthcare benefits, including pre-employment medical exams and inpatient coverage.

From brand-new signups to reactivating previous PhilHealth records, this 2025 guide walks you through every step.

Is a PhilHealth ID Required When Applying for a Job?

Yes. Most employers request your PhilHealth ID as part of pre-employment requirements. But what if you don’t have one yet? You can still apply for jobs. You may submit a completed PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) or any proof that your application is being processed. Some HR teams may also accept your PhilHealth number without the physical ID while waiting for processing.

Related: Know all the benefits you need to have as an employee.

Do You Already Have a PhilHealth Number?

Before registering, check if you already have a PhilHealth number:

• Ask past employers if they registered you.
  
• Call the PhilHealth hotline at (02) 8441-7442 or email [email protected].
  
• Visit a local PhilHealth branch with a valid ID.
  
• Try the PhilHealth Member Portal if you’re already enrolled.
  

If your employer failed to remit or register your details, you may need to update your records or file a complaint. Lost your PhilHealth ID? You can request a reprint or update.

Types of PhilHealth IDs: Which One Should Job Seekers Get?

There are three types of PhilHealth IDs:

• Regular (Cardboard ID): Free and commonly issued, but less durable.
  
• PVC ID: More durable and acceptable in most job applications. It may cost around PHP 90-120 through third-party services.
  
• Digital ID: Viewable on the PhilHealth Member Portal, useful for quick online submissions.
  

For job applications, PVC or digitized copies are often preferred. But even a regular ID is enough if you’re just getting started.

Related: For working moms, know more about your maternity leave.

PhilHealth ID Requirements in 2025

To apply for a PhilHealth ID in 2025, prepare the following:

For first-time registrants:

• Accomplished PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF)
  
• One (1) valid government-issued ID (e.g., PSA birth certificate, school ID, passport)
  
• 1×1 ID photo (optional but may be required for printed IDs)
  

Special cases:

• Students: Present a valid school ID and birth certificate
  
• Senior citizens: Submit OSCA ID and barangay certificate
  
• Dependents: Bring the member’s MDR and proof of relationship (e.g., marriage/birth certificate)

How to Apply for a PhilHealth ID (Step-by-Step Guide)

Option A: Walk-in Registration

• Visit the nearest PhilHealth branch.
  
• Fill out and submit the PMRF.
  
• Provide a valid ID and any supporting documents.
  
• Receive your PhilHealth number and ID (or schedule for pickup/release).
  

Option B: Online Registration (for existing members only)

• Visit https://eregister.philhealth.gov.ph
  
• Complete your profile and upload the required documents
  
• Print your MDR and digital ID when available
  

Processing Time: Usually 1–3 business days for walk-ins. Online processing may take up to a week, depending on your location.

After receiving your ID, keep both printed and digital copies for onboarding and health claims.

Applying as a Voluntary Member While Job Hunting

If you’re unemployed or a freelancer, you can apply as a voluntary/self-earning member.

Steps:

• Visit a PhilHealth office or register online.
  
• Pay monthly contributions (minimum PHP 400/month as of 2025).
  
• Payment methods: GCash, Maya, over-the-counter at Bayad Centers or banks.
  

Maintaining your coverage ensures continued access to benefits even while between jobs.

Related: Fast-track your job hunting with the power of AI.

What If You Used to Work Abroad or in the Informal Sector?

Switching from other member types to voluntary membership?

• Update your Member Data Record (MDR) via walk-in or email.
  
• Submit proof of current income (optional but helpful for classification).
  
• Bring past PhilHealth documents if applicable (MDR, ID, remittance forms).
  

OFWs, informal workers, and barangay staff transitioning to local employment must update their membership to ensure proper benefit eligibility.

Can You Use Your PhilHealth ID for Pre-Employment Medical Exams?

Yes. Many clinics accept your PhilHealth ID when conducting pre-employment medicals, especially for HMO-accredited companies.

Check if the clinic is PhilHealth-accredited at https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/partners/providers/.

Coverage may include basic consultation, chest X-rays, or laboratory tests under certain conditions. Always ask the clinic what’s covered and prepare to pay upfront if not included.

Can I Get a PhilHealth ID in One Day?

While some PhilHealth branches may release your PhilHealth ID on the same day, this depends heavily on their current workload, the type of ID you’re requesting, and whether you’re a first-time registrant or updating existing records. Regular paper-type IDs are often processed faster, especially if your details are already in the PhilHealth system. If you’re aiming to get it done quickly, arrive early and bring all required documents, especially your printed PhilHealth number and valid government-issued ID.

One often-overlooked tip: go to less crowded branches or satellite offices in malls, which sometimes have shorter queues. If you’re applying during peak hiring seasons (e.g., graduation periods), expect delays. Knowing the expected PhilHealth ID processing time helps you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary stress, especially if your employer is waiting for this as part of your pre-employment checklist.

How to Update Your PhilHealth Information for Employment

Need to update civil status, job title, or address?

• Download the PMRF at https://www.philhealth.gov.ph
  
• Tick “Updating” in the form and indicate changes
  
• Submit it in person or email it to your regional office
  

Employers often require an updated MDR to validate your contributions and benefit claims.

How Much Do I Need to Pay to Get a PhilHealth ID?

The regular PhilHealth ID is completely free if you’re applying for the standard paper version, which is typically sufficient for most pre-employment requirements. However, if you request the PVC-type ID (which is optional), some branches may charge a minimal fee, usually ranging from ₱90 to ₱150. It’s best to ask your local branch in advance, as pricing for the PVC card is not officially published on PhilHealth’s website and may vary depending on the partner printer.

An important but overlooked point: PhilHealth ID cost is not tied to your contributions or membership status. Even if you’re newly registered or haven’t paid contributions yet (such as first-time job seekers), you’re still entitled to a free paper ID. Just ensure your Member Data Record (MDR) is updated, as it’s often issued together with your ID and may be required by your employer.

Is PhilHealth ID Card Free?

Yes, the standard PhilHealth ID is free, and there’s no payment required to claim your initial ID after successful registration. This ID serves as basic proof of membership, which is enough for employers to verify that you’re part of the national health insurance system. However, many applicants confuse the PVC-type ID, which is laminated and includes a photo, as a standard issue, when in fact, it’s optional and may come with a small production fee depending on the branch.

What’s often missed is that you don’t need the ID to start benefiting from PhilHealth. Your PhilHealth benefits eligibility is determined by your PhilHealth number and active contribution status, not by whether you hold a physical ID card. So even if your ID is delayed or pending, make sure you know your PhilHealth number and have a printed MDR ready, as that’s what most employers and hospitals will actually require.

FAQs

Can I apply for jobs without a PhilHealth ID?
Yes, but prepare your PhilHealth number or show proof that you’ve registered.

What if my employer hasn’t given me a PhilHealth number yet?
You’re responsible for registering. Employers only remit once you’re onboard.

How do I know if my contributions are up to date?
Log in to the PhilHealth Member Portal or ask your HR for a remittance report.

Can I register even if I don’t have a job yet?
Absolutely. You can register as a voluntary member.

Apply Now and Get Job-Ready

Getting your PhilHealth ID ahead of time helps you breeze through job offers, pre-employment requirements, and medical clearances. Don’t wait for HR to ask. Be proactive. If you’re looking for jobs that offer government-mandated benefits with competitive compensation, check our open roles.

Tip: Save a digital copy of your ID and MDR in your email or cloud storage for easy access during applications.