U.S. Exchange Visitor Visa Health Insurance Requirements

1. What is the minimum health insurance coverage required for a U.S. exchange visitor visa holder?


The minimum health insurance coverage required for a U.S. exchange visitor visa holder is coverage that meets or exceeds the U.S. Department of State’s requirements for J visa status. This includes coverage for medical, accident, and repatriation of remains expenses, as well as a deductible no greater than $100,000 per accident or illness.

2. Does the U.S. exchange visitor visa holder need to purchase health insurance from a private provider or can they get it through a public program?


The J-1 Exchange Visitor visa holder is responsible for legally obtaining and maintaining health insurance throughout the duration of their stay in the U.S. They can purchase health insurance from a private provider, or they may be eligible for public programs such as Medicare or Medicaid depending on their individual circumstances.

3. Is there a list of approved health insurance providers for exchange visitors?


No, there is not a list of approved health insurance providers for exchange visitors. Each exchange visitor will need to meet the health insurance coverage requirements of their specific visa type. The US Department of State recommends that exchange visitors verify that the health insurance coverage they purchase meets the requirements for their visa type before they depart their home country.

4. Does the U.S. exchange visitor visa requirements include coverage for pre-existing conditions?


No, the U.S. exchange visitor visa requirements do not include coverage for pre-existing conditions. Exchange visitors are required to have health insurance that meets the minimum criteria established by the Department of State (DOS) which does not include coverage for pre-existing conditions. However, exchange visitors may be able to purchase additional coverage for pre-existing conditions from a private insurance company.

5. What are the eligibility requirements to purchase health insurance for an exchange visitor?


Eligibility requirements for purchasing health insurance through an exchange visitor health insurance plan may vary by provider, but generally, exchange visitors must meet the following criteria to be eligible for coverage:

1. Must be a non-U.S. citizen and hold a valid J-1 visa.
2. Must have a valid passport.
3. Must be in the U.S. for a limited amount of time, typically 12 months or less.
4. Must be actively participating in an approved exchange program as designated by the U.S. Department of State.
5. Must not have permanent U.S. resident status or be eligible for coverage under any other U.S.-based health insurance plan.

6. What is the maximum length of time that a U.S. exchange visitor can remain on a particular health insurance plan?


The maximum length of time that a U.S. exchange visitor can remain on a particular health insurance plan is typically 12 months.

7. Is there any special coverage needed for international students?


International students may need additional coverage to supplement their health insurance plans. This could include coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation, travel insurance, and supplemental accidental death and dismemberment coverage. Additionally, students may want to consider purchasing a plan that covers emergency medical evacuation to their home country if they become ill or injured while studying abroad.

8. Are there any special health insurance requirements for travelers coming to the United States on an exchange program?


Yes, any participant in an exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government must have adequate health insurance coverage in order to be eligible for the program. The health insurance must cover medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation of remains in the event of death, and must provide a minimum level of coverage for the entire length of stay in the United States. The exchange visitor will be required to show proof of coverage before starting their program.

9. Does the U.S. exchange visitor visa require any coverage for repatriation or medical evacuation?


Yes, all J-1 Exchange Visitors in the U.S. are required to have medical insurance that meets minimum requirements as mandated by the Department of State and the U.S. government. This includes repatriation and medical evacuation coverage.

10. Is there a maximum coverage limit per person for U.S. Exchange visitor visa health insurance plans?


Yes, most plans have a maximum coverage limit per person, which typically ranges from $250,000 to $500,000.

11. Are there any additional benefits available through U.S. exchange visitor visa health insurance plans?


Yes, there are additional benefits available through many U.S. exchange visitor visa health insurance plans. Some common additional benefits include coverage for routine physicals, mental health services, dental care, vision care, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.

12. Can an exchange visitor be covered under more than one health plan at the same time?


No, an exchange visitor cannot be covered by more than one health plan at the same time.

13. Does the policy provide coverage for prescription drugs, doctor visits, and hospital stays while traveling in the U.S.?


It depends on the specific policy. Some policies may provide coverage for prescription drugs, doctor visits, and hospital stays while traveling in the U.S., while other policies may not.

14. What is the waiting period before benefits begin for an exchange visitor health insurance policy?


The waiting period for an exchange visitor health insurance policy typically depends on the policy and the insurance provider. Some plans may have a waiting period of up to 30 days before benefits begin.

15. Are there any exclusions to the coverage provided by an exchange visitor health insurance policy?


Yes, most exchange visitor health insurance policies will have exclusions. These can include pre-existing conditions, maternity care, costs associated with experimental treatments, and non-emergency or elective services.

16. Are there any additional costs that must be paid by an exchange visitor who wants to purchase a health plan?


Yes, most health plans will require additional costs to be paid by the exchange visitor, such as administrative fees, co-payments and deductibles. Additionally, some health plans may require additional costs for services that are not covered under the plan.

17. Can an exchange visitor cancel their policy during their time in the United States, and if so, what are the procedures for doing so?


Yes, an exchange visitor can cancel their policy during their time in the United States. The procedures for doing so vary depending on the policy and the insurance provider, but generally it involves contacting the provider and requesting a cancellation. It is important to note that if an exchange visitor cancels their policy they may not be eligible to receive a refund of any premiums already paid.

18. Can an exchange visitor transfer their coverage to another country prior to leaving the United States or while traveling abroad?


No, exchange visitors may not transfer their coverage to another country prior to leaving the United States or while traveling abroad. Exchange visitors must remain enrolled in their current plan until they have departed the United States and can no longer receive benefits under the plan.

19. Are there any forms that must be completed prior to purchasing a U.S Exchange Visitor visa Health Insurance plan?


Yes, most U.S Exchange Visitor visa Health Insurance plans require applicants to complete an enrollment form.

20. Are there any restrictions on what activities can be performed under a U.S Exchange Visitor Visa Health Insurance Plan?


Yes, there are restrictions on what activities can be performed under a U.S Exchange Visitor Visa Health Insurance Plan. The activities that are restricted depend on the type of plan that is purchased and the rules of the insurance provider. Generally speaking, some activities such as high-risk sports, hazardous activities, and extreme adventure activities may not be covered. Additionally, most plans do not cover medical emergencies that occur outside of the US. It is important to read the policy details carefully and reach out to the insurance provider for specific information.