How to Apply for a CGHS Card: Eligibility and Application Process
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhil Singh
Last reviewed: 18 Jul 2026
The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) provides healthcare to central government employees, pensioners and their dependants in notified CGHS cities. This guide explains who is eligible and how to apply for a CGHS card.
Who Is Eligible for CGHS
- Serving central government employees paid from Central Civil Estimates and posted in a CGHS-covered city
- Central government pensioners and family pensioners
- Railway Board, Posts & Telegraph and civilian defence employees, and certain autonomous body employees
- Sitting and former Members of Parliament
- Dependent family members, subject to the prescribed dependency income ceiling
Documents Required
- Recent photographs of all beneficiaries
- Proof of residence
- Proof of dependent family members and proof of relationship
- Proof of age for dependent sons (and disability certificate where applicable)
- For pensioners: PPO / Provisional PPO or Last Pay Certificate
- For pensioners: proof of CGHS contribution paid (annual or whole-life)
How to Apply (Step by Step)
- Fill the CGHS card application form online on the official portal, which generates a temporary reference number
- Affix the required photographs and complete the form
- Print the completed application (documents are submitted physically along with the printout)
- Serving employees route the application through their department/Ministry to the Additional Director, CGHS
- Pensioners submit to the Additional Director (HQ) or the concerned city office with the contribution
- On approval, a Beneficiary ID is issued for use at Wellness Centres while the plastic card is prepared
Where to Apply
The CGHS card application is available on the official CGHS portal. Document requirements and contribution slabs are set by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, so confirm the current requirements on the official portal before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for a CGHS card?
Central government serving employees and pensioners in CGHS cities, along with certain other categories such as MPs and specified autonomous bodies, plus their dependent family members.
How do I apply for a CGHS card?
Fill the form on the official CGHS portal to get a reference number, then submit the signed printout with documents — employees through their department, pensioners to the Additional Director with the prescribed contribution.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
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Central government serving employees and pensioners in CGHS cities, along with certain other categories such as MPs and specified autonomous bodies, plus their dependent family members.
Fill the form on the official CGHS portal to get a reference number, then submit the signed printout with documents — employees through their department, pensioners to the Additional Director with the prescribed contribution.
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Written by Dr. Nikhil Singh
Last reviewed: 18 July 2026
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
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