Kenyans are encouraged to register with the Social Health Authority(SHA) inline with the government’s vision of universal health coverage. There are three distinct ways that one can register with SHA (Social Health Authority) in kenya.
To register with SHA/SHIF in Kenya, you can use the USSD code *147#, the official SHA website (sha.go.ke) or afyayangu.go.ke, or visit a registration center in person.
What is required to register with SHA
The methods highlighted require your National ID, personal details, and often a phone for OTP verification, with online registration also needing a passport photo, dependents’ info, and PIN setup.
Let us look at the three distinct ways to register with SHA in Kenya in detail.
Method 1: Register with SHA,USSD Code (Quickest)
Dial *147# on your mobile phone.
Select your status (Citizen or Resident).
Enter your National ID number.
Follow the prompts to provide personal details like your name and confirm.
Method 2:Register with SHA Online (Comprehensive)
Go to the SHA website: sha.go.ke or afyayangu.go.ke.
Click “Register” or “Register Individual”.
Agree to the terms and conditions.
Enter your ID number, name, and phone number.
Verify your account with the OTP sent to your phone.
Complete your profile: upload a passport photo, provide employment/civil status, and add dependents (spouse, children).
Set up a PIN for your account.
Method 3: Register with SHA,In-Person (Assisted)
Visit a designated SHIF registration center or agent.
Fill out a registration form with your details.
Provide required documents for verification.
Key Details
Required Info: National ID, phone number, personal details, passport photo (online), dependents’ info (online).
Over and above for the those in formal employment. A separate portal exists at employers.sha.go.ke for employer registration and employee enrollment.this means one can also register with SHA via the employer’s portal.
Biometric Verification: You may need to visit a center for biometric verification after online registration.
Frequently Asked Questions on SHA
How Do I Register for SHA/SHIF?
There are three main methods for registration:
- USSD Code: Dial *147# on your mobile phone and follow the prompts to provide personal details (Name, ID, etc.).
- Online Portal: Visit the SHA website at sha.go.ke and click on “Register”.
- In-Person/Assisted: Visit a Huduma Centre, a public hospital, or seek assistance from a Community Health Promoter (CHP).
What Documents Are Required?
- National ID Card: For the main applicant and spouse (if applicable).
- Birth Certificate: For dependants below 18 years.
- Passport Photo: A digital or physical copy.
- Valid Email Address and Phone Number.
Is There a Fee for Registration?
No, registration is free. However, members must make a 2.75% contribution of their gross salary (for employed persons) or a minimum of KSh 300/month (for self-employed/unemployed) to activate their cover.
What Happens to My Old NHIF Contributions?
Your previous NHIF contributions and membership are protected. The funds are safely secured with SHA, and your history is part of the transition.
Who Qualifies as a Dependant?
Dependants include:
- Spouse(s).
- Children (from birth up to 17 years).
- Children aged 18–25 if they are enrolled in school/university.
- Disabled dependants (no age limit).
How Do I Add Dependents?
Dependants can be added during the initial registration process or later via the website portal (afyangu.go.ke) by providing their identification details and proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate).
What Are the New SHA Rates?
Employed: 2.75% of the gross monthly salary, with no maximum cap.
Informal Sector/Self-employed: Contributions are determined through a means-testing process, with a minimum payment of KSh 300 per month.
How Do I Pay?
Employed: Deducted by the employer, who remits to SHA.
Informal Sector: You need to do means test to ascertain you contribution amount based on your income/ability.
Payments are made via the “Lipa SHA Polepole” scheme (accessible via *147#), which allows for flexible payments (daily, weekly, or monthly).
Or you could pay the full amount after means test.
Do I Get a SHA Card?
SHA uses biometric verification at the point of care, rather than a physical card. You will be required to go to a health facility to have your fingerprints captured.
When Can I Start Accessing Services?
You can access services immediately, once you are registered.
