How to Transfer CGHS Card from One City to Another

Government employees and pensioners often get transferred or relocate after retirement. When that happens, the CGHS card must be transferred to the new city to continue availing medical facilities without interruption.

The good news: you don’t need to apply for a fresh CGHS card. A simple transfer process is all that’s required.

Let’s see how it works.

What Does “Transfer of CGHS Card” Mean?

Transfer of a CGHS card means shifting your existing CGHS registration from one CGHS city to another, while keeping:

the same CGHS card number
the same beneficiary details
uninterrupted eligibility for CGHS facilities

Only the city and Wellness Centre get changed.

Who Can Apply for CGHS Card Transfer?

The facility is available to:

Serving Central Government employees
Central Government pensioners
Family pensioners
Other eligible CGHS beneficiaries

Transfer is permitted any number of times, subject to eligibility in the new city.

When Should You Apply?

Apply for transfer:

After getting a transfer order (serving employees), or
After permanent relocation to another CGHS city (pensioners)

There is no mandatory waiting period.

Documents Required for CGHS Card Transfer

Keep these ready before applying:

Existing CGHS card (plastic or digital)
Proof of new city address
Transfer order (for serving employees)
PPO / Pension documents (for pensioners)
Aadhaar of beneficiaries (if linked)

How to Transfer CGHS Card Online (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit the CGHS Online Portal

Go to the official CGHS portal under the Central Government Health Scheme.

Step 2: Login Using Beneficiary Credentials

Use your registered mobile number / CGHS card number to log in.

Step 3: Select “Transfer of CGHS Card”

Choose the option related to:

Change of CGHS City / Wellness Centre

Step 4: Enter New City Details

Select the new CGHS city
Choose the preferred Wellness Centre
Update address details carefully

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

Transfer order / PPO
Address proof
Existing CGHS card

Step 6: Submit the Application

After submission:

An acknowledgement number is generated
Application is forwarded to the new CGHS city office

What Happens After Submission?

The old CGHS city forwards your records
New city verifies and activates your card
You can start availing services at the new Wellness Centre once approved

In most cases, approval takes 7–15 working days.

Is a New CGHS Card Issued?

No change in CGHS card number
In many cities, digital CGHS card is sufficient
Physical plastic card may be issued only if required

Until then, the acknowledgement slip + old card is usually accepted.

Important Points to Remember

Transfer is allowed only between CGHS-covered cities
You must select a Wellness Centre in the new city
No additional contribution is required just for transfer
Family members remain covered automatically

FAQs

Can I transfer CGHS card before moving?
Yes, but services become fully usable only after physical relocation.

What if the new city doesn’t have CGHS?
CGHS transfer is not possible. You may have to opt for alternative medical facilities as per rules.

Do pensioners need to visit the CGHS office?
Mostly no. Online application is sufficient unless documents are specifically asked.

Final Word

Transferring a CGHS card from one city to another is simple, online, and hassle-free—as long as documents are ready and details are entered correctly.

For government employees and pensioners, this ensures continuity of medical care without applying for a fresh card.