The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a government initiative aimed at providing affordable healthcare to Kenyans. Managed by the Social Health Authority (SHA), SHIF operates on the principle of resource pooling, making healthcare accessible to diverse populations, including students, retirees, and employees. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register for SHIF.
Eligibility for SHIF Membership
To register for SHIF, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Kenyan citizen or legal resident.
- Possess a valid national identification card or passport.
- Be 18 years or older.
Categories of SHIF Membership
- Principal Member
- The main account holder responsible for contributions.
- Dependents
- Individuals covered under the principal member’s account, including children or spouses.
Required Documents
For registration, you need the following:
- Principal Member:
- National ID or passport.
- A colored passport-size photograph.
- Proof of income (e.g., payslip, bank statement, or KRA PIN certificate).
- Dependents:
- Proof of relationship (e.g., birth or marriage certificate).
- Identification documents for the dependents.
How to Register for SHIF
You can register for SHIF using any of these methods:
1. USSD Code Registration
- Dial
*147#on your mobile phone. - Select your ID type.
- Enter your ID number.
- Follow the prompts to provide relevant details.
- Complete the registration process.
- A confirmation message will be sent upon successful registration.
2. Online Registration
- Visit the SHA website: www.sha.go.ke.
- Click on the “Register” option.
- Fill in the online registration form with your details.
- Create your account and verify it using an OTP sent to your phone.
- Update your profile after account verification.
- Visit an authorized SHA agent for biometric verification and account activation.
3. In-Person Registration
- Visit an SHA branch, Huduma Centre, or authorized agent with the required documents.
- Fill out the registration form and attach the necessary documents.
- Review your details with the agent to ensure accuracy.
- Submit your application; biometrics may be captured for verification.
Contact Information
For further assistance, contact the Social Health Authority:
- Location: Ragati Road, Upper Hill, Opposite Kenya National Library, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0800 720 601
SHIF ensures every Kenyan has access to quality healthcare services. Get registered today to secure your health and that of your family!




