NPS Swasthya latest rules explained
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has released a comprehensive 27-page document outlining the operational guidelines for NPS Swasthya under the National Pension System (NPS) in 2026. This document provides detailed information on various aspects of NPS Swasthya, including minimum contributions, premium charges, fees and charges, partial withdrawal rules, transfer options from existing NPS schemes, and provisions for both normal and premature exits.
One of the key points highlighted in the guidelines is the varying premium charges based on the entry-age cohort. Premiums will be quoted separately for three age groups: 18-40, above 40-60, and above 60-70. The PFRDA has also clarified the premium charges for the Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh health cover under NPS Swasthya.
The minimum initial contribution to NPS Swasthya includes the applicable first-year insurance policy premium (inclusive of taxes), annual maintenance charges of Rs 200 (plus taxes), and a contribution of Rs 1,000 towards investing in the NPS Swasthya account. Subsequent contributions are as low as Rs 10.
Fees and charges applicable to NPS Swasthya will follow the same rules as those for the All Citizen Model. Additionally, the Pension Fund Management Company (PF) may impose a charge of up to 0.08% per annum of the Assets Under Management (AUM) for managing the NPS Swasthya scheme, subject to applicable taxes. All charges must be clearly disclosed to subscribers before enrollment and any time there is a change in charges.
To make a partial withdrawal from the NPS Swasthya account, subscribers can cover eligible healthcare expenses, such as out-patient and in-patient costs. The withdrawal amount cannot exceed 25% of the subscriber's total contributions to the NPS Swasthya account. There is no limit on the number of partial withdrawals or a waiting period for the first or subsequent withdrawals.
However, the withdrawn amount will not be paid directly to the subscriber – it will be directly settled with the healthcare provider or eligible entity for the covered expenses.
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