Hong Kong Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) in 2025

What is Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme?

Voluntary Health Insurance (VHIS) is a type of private health insurance policy, primarily divided into two categories:

1. Standard Plan

Meets government minimum coverage requirements

Includes basic hospitalization and surgical coverage

With a specified indemnity amount

2. Flexi Plan

Insurers can design more flexible products

Provide higher coverage and additional medical service options

Features:

Guaranteed renewal until age 100

No lifetime indemnity cap

Coverage for pre-existing conditions and day surgery not discovered at the time of policy issuance

Tax deductions available, up to HK$8,000 per insured person per year

VHIS offers peace of mind at a reasonable cost, safeguarding the health of both themselves and their parents in their later years.

Why choose VHIS?

Long waiting times for public healthcare

High fees and heavy costs for private hospitals

Transparent coverage and government oversight

Tax deductions available

Flexi Plans offer higher coverage options

For seniors, VHIS not only reduces reliance on public healthcare but also provides long-term protection against the high costs of private healthcare.

Age Categories and Insurance Savings Chart

Choosing the right insurance plan for your age group can effectively reduce premiums and improve coverage. For those aged 50 to 54, choosing a Standard or Flexible Plan can save approximately HK$8,000 to HK$15,000 annually. Taking out insurance earlier offers lower premiums, more comprehensive coverage, and greater tax savings. Those aged 55 to 59 should opt for a Standard or Flexible Plan, saving HK$7,000 to HK$12,000 annually. However, health conditions will affect premiums and riders, so the earlier you take out insurance, the more cost-effective it is.

For those aged 60 to 64, a Flexible Plan is a good choice, saving HK$6,000 to HK$10,000 annually. While higher premiums come with slightly higher coverage, it can save you long-term public healthcare expenses. For those aged 65 to 69, while premiums are higher, they can save HK$5,000 to HK$8,000 annually, still enjoy tax deductions, and coverage can last up to age 100.

Those aged 70 to 79 can save HK$4,000 to HK$6,000 annually by choosing a Flexible Plan (depending on their health status). Early enrollment can help expand coverage to cover private hospital expenses. Those aged 80 and above should opt for a Special Review Plan, which can save an estimated HK$3,000 to HK$5,000 annually. While premiums are higher, coverage can be extended to age 100, with specific coverage determined by the insurance company.

How do seniors apply for VHIS?

1. Compare and Select Plans

Choose a Standard or Flexible Plan based on your needs and compare premiums and coverage from different insurance companies.

2. Prepare Documents

ID Card

Health Declaration Form

Income/Tax Information (if applying for tax deductions)

3. Submit Application

Submit online or in person to confirm coverage and terms and conditions.

4.Pay Premium

You can pay monthly, and coverage will take effect upon completion.

5. Insurance Considerations

Age Limit: Most plans accept individuals aged 0-80, with renewals available up to age 100.

The Earlier, the Better: The older you are or the worse your health, the higher the premium, and additional terms and conditions may apply.

Pre-existing Conditions: Some undiagnosed conditions may be covered, but known conditions may be excluded.

Standard vs. Flexible: While flexible plans have higher premiums, they offer more comprehensive coverage.

Comparison of Features of Common Insurance Brands

Currently, over 20 insurance companies participate in the Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme, including AIA, Bupa Hero VHIS, Prudential, HSBC VHIS, Manulife, and FTLife. Here are some key features of several brands:

AIA VHIS Flexi: Provides up to full medical expense reimbursement, including private hospital rooms, cancer medication, and overseas medical treatment, making it ideal for those with extra budgets.

AIA VHIS Privilege Ultra: Enjoy a 10% discount on the first year's premium, renewal up to age 100, and tax deductions up to HK$8,000 per person per year.

Bupa Hero VHIS: Standard + Enhanced: Global coverage with a maximum annual benefit of, including mental health, cancer deductibles, day treatment, annual checkups, and more.

Bupa Safe Plan: Monthly premiums start at approximately HK$36, renewal up to age 100, no waiting period for general medical conditions, immediate coverage, and tax deductions up to HK$8,000 per person per year.

HSBC VHIS: Private hospital room, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, no cash withdrawal, and optional deductibles; Silver/Gold members enjoy Medical Director support, family discounts, and privileged services.

HSBC VHIS Flexi Plan: Monthly premiums start at approximately HK$15, renewal up to age 100, and tax deductions up to HK$8,000 per person per year.

Conclusion: Prepare for your health and choose the right health insurance plan

With an aging population, medical expenses will only continue to rise. Preparing for appropriate medical coverage for yourself or your parents early on is not only a financial decision but also a source of long-term peace of mind. The government's introduction of the Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme provides citizens with more flexible and secure options. No matter your stage of life, it's worth carefully comparing products from different insurance companies and choosing the most suitable health insurance plan based on your health, financial situation, and lifestyle, ensuring greater peace of mind and dignity in your future.