The Mexican government will open registration for the new Universal Health Credential on April 13, beginning with adults aged 85 and older. Ariadna Montiel, head of the Secretariat of Welfare, confirmed that citizens can locate their nearest registration modules through the agency’s official website.
While officials initially signaled an April 2 start date, the government released a finalized schedule this week. Applicants must visit designated sites between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. based on the first letter of their surname.
Registration requirements and timeline
Registration runs from April 13 through April 30. Individuals must bring their birth certificate, an official photo ID, their CURP, and a proof of address. During the appointment, staff will capture the applicant’s photograph and fingerprints. Once processed, the government will notify recipients via SMS or a phone call from the 079 helpline when their physical card is ready for pickup.
This rollout applies to the 24 states currently affiliated with the IMSS Bienestar program. The process is limited to state capitals for this initial phase.
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced during her April 7 morning press conference that a presidential decree will formally establish the Universal Health System in the coming days. She described the credentialing process as the foundational step toward a unified, shared national database for patient care.
Eduardo Clark, Undersecretary of Sectoral Integration and Coordination of Healthcare Services, stated that the new card will function as an official form of identification, similar to the INE voter card or a passport.
"The credentialing process will be accompanied by a mobile application," Clark said. The app will provide a digital version of the health ID and allow users to view their coverage status and locate nearby health facilities in real time.
By 2027, the government plans to expand the app’s functionality. Future updates will allow patients to schedule medical appointments, access specific service information, and manage their personal medical history and digital health records.
