PhilHealth contribution for OFW in 2026
Quick answer
Land-based OFWs must pay PhilHealth and pay the full premium themselves. In 2026 the premium is 5% of your monthly income, based on an income floor of PHP 10,000 and a ceiling of PHP 100,000. That means OFWs pay from PHP 500 to PHP 5,000 a month. Your family in the Philippines can use your PhilHealth benefits if they are your declared dependents.
Use our PhilHealth contribution calculator to see your amount.
Requirements
- Your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN). If you have none, register first.
- Your Member Data Record (MDR), updated to show OFW membership. See how to print your MDR.
- Your monthly income abroad in pesos.
- For dependents: birth or marriage certificates.
- A PhilHealth Member Portal account to check payments. See how to register.
Steps
1. Get a PIN or update your record
New members can register online or at a PhilHealth office. If you already have a PIN, update your category to OFW (land-based).
2. Add your dependents
List your spouse, children under 21 and parents who qualify. They can then use your benefits.
3. Compute your premium
Multiply your monthly income by 5%. If your income is below PHP 10,000, use PHP 10,000. If it is above PHP 100,000, use PHP 100,000.
4. Pay
Pay through a channel listed on the PhilHealth website, or at a PhilHealth office before you leave. You may be able to pay for several months or a year at once.
5. Keep your receipt and check that the payment is posted on the Member Portal
6. Print your MDR if you need proof of membership for your family or for travel papers
Fees
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PHP 10,000 or less | PHP 500 | PHP 6,000 |
| PHP 25,000 | PHP 1,250 | PHP 15,000 |
| PHP 50,000 | PHP 2,500 | PHP 30,000 |
| PHP 100,000 or more | PHP 5,000 | PHP 60,000 |
Processing time
- Registration: same day at an office; online may take a few days.
- Payment posting: a few working days.
Where to go
- Online: philhealth.gov.ph and the Member Portal.
- In the Philippines: any PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office.
- Abroad: ask the Migrant Workers Office (MWO, formerly POLO) or the embassy. See country pages.
Frequently asked questions
Is PhilHealth mandatory for OFWs?
Yes. The Universal Health Care Act (RA 11223) makes OFWs direct contributors.
How much is PhilHealth for OFWs in 2026?
It is 5% of monthly income, from PHP 500 to PHP 5,000 a month.
Do I need PhilHealth to get an OEC?
Rules on this have changed over the years. Check the current DMW and PhilHealth advisories before you process your OEC.
Can my family use my PhilHealth while I am abroad?
Yes, if they are listed as your qualified dependents and your contributions are updated.
Can I pay PhilHealth for a full year?
Many OFWs pay for several months or a year at once. Ask PhilHealth for the allowed payment periods.
What if I stop paying while abroad?
Unpaid months may affect your eligibility for benefits. Check with PhilHealth about how to update missed payments.
Are sea-based workers covered the same way?
Sea-based workers are usually covered through their manning agency as employees, so the premium is shared.
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