All J-1 exchange visitors must have health insurance which covers the exchange visitor and his or her dependents. The insurance must cover sickness or accidents during the period of time that an exchange visitor participates in the sponsor’s exchange visitor program as reflected by the start and end dates on the exchange visitor’s DS-2019.
The minimum coverage is detailed in the regulation located at 62.14.
Note: All J-1 exchange visitors must demonstrate that they have insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents for the entire period of their J-1 visa upon arrival at UMBC.
Summary of J-1 Health Insurance Requirements
| Benefit | Requirements | |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Benefits per accident or illness of at least | $100,000 | |
| Medical evacuation to the J Exchange Visitor’s home country | $50,000 | |
| Repatriation of remains in the amount | $25,000 | |
| Deductible per accident or illness no higher than | $500 | |
| Co-insurance paid by the individual may be no higher than | 25% |
Purchasing Health Insurance
If you need to purchase health insurance, here is a list of a few companies that provide policies specifically designed for those on J-1 programs.
- ISO Insurance
- Gateway USA
- IMG Global
- VISIT International Health Insurance
- International Student Insurance
Understanding the US Healthcare System
Not sure how health insurance in the United States works? Watch this short video on the US Healthcare System.