Launched by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on [insert launch date if available] and designed primarily for safeguarding the interests of Indian emigrant workers in the Emigration Check Required (ECR) category, the Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) offers comprehensive, global insurance coverage. This mandatory scheme ensures that emigrant workers, irrespective of their employer or work location abroad, are provided cashless treatment and efficient claim settlement in the event of accidental death or permanent disability, along with other essential health benefits.
Benefits
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Accidental Death or Permanent Disability:
In the event of accidental death or permanent disability leading to loss of employment while working abroad, the insured is covered for up to ₹10 Lakh. -
Medical Insurance:
Provides medical insurance cover up to ₹1,00,000, with a limit of ₹50,000 per hospitalization for injuries, sickness, ailments, or diseases. -
Repatriation:
Covers repatriation expenses for medically unfit individuals or in cases of premature termination of employment, reimbursing the actual one-way economy class airfare to the nearest international airport in India. -
Family Hospitalization:
Offers family hospitalization coverage up to ₹50,000 for the spouse and the first two children (dependent, unmarried, up to 21 years of age). -
Maternity Benefits:
Maternity expenses for women emigrants are covered up to ₹50,000. -
Return Airfare for Attendant:
In case of accidental death or permanent disability, reimbursement of return economy class airfare to one attendant is provided. -
Legal Expenses:
Legal expenses related to litigation over issues in overseas employment are admissible up to ₹45,000. -
Online Renewal:
The policy can be renewed online, ensuring seamless continuation of coverage.
Eligibility
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Applicant Profile:
The scheme is available to Indian emigrant workers who have cleared emigration requirements and are in the ECR category. -
Age Criteria:
Applicants must be between 18 to 65 years old (maximum entry age subject to emigration clearance). -
Additional Eligibility:
There are no explicit exclusions noted; the policy covers a broad range of workers including those with disabilities.
Application Process
Online Purchase:
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Preparation:
Ensure you have all relevant travel documents ready (e.g., Passport, Visa, Work Permit No., etc.). -
Registration:
- Visit an online portal provided by insurance entities such as IFFCO-TOKIO General Insurance or Oriental Insurance.
- New customers must fill in all relevant details in the online form.
- After entering the required information, the system directs you to the payment page.
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Payment:
- Enter all mandatory details accurately.
- Select from accepted payment modes: UPI, Internet Banking, Debit Card, Online Wallets, or Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express).
- Complete the premium payment.
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Confirmation:
After successful payment, you will be directed to a confirmation page. Download the receipt for your records.
Documents Required
- For Accidental Death Claims:
- Police Report confirming accidental death.
- Post Mortem Report.
- Certificate/Report from the concerned Indian Embassy.
- Duly attested copy of the Passport (all pages).
- For Permanent Total Disability Claims:
- Medical records pertaining to the treatment following the accident.
- Disability certificate issued by a competent medical authority.
- In addition, original insurance certificate/policy and a duly filled claim application form.
- Copy of Passport (all pages) if the death occurs outside India.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is hospitalization benefit also available for children?
Yes, though details of coverage per hospitalization are specified with a cap of ₹50,000 per hospitalization. -
Do I need to visit the Indian Mission to renew the policy?
No, the scheme facilitates online renewal. -
Are there facilities for pregnant woman emigrants?
Yes, maternity expenses up to ₹50,000 are covered for women emigrants. -
What benefits can a PwD emigrant avail under PBBY?
PwD emigrants receive the same comprehensive coverage, ensuring protection against accidental death or permanent disability, along with medical, repatriation, and other associated benefits.