J-1 Visa Holders, as well as J-2 Dependents, Need a Compliant Health Insurance Plan
According to the Department of State, the purpose of the J-1 Visa Program is as follows:
The Exchange Visitor Program fosters global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges. All exchange visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program in order to share their exchange experiences.
The US Dept. of State requires the sponsoring program or University to terminate the J-1/J-2 visa if the individual does not have suitable health coverage. The basic requirements for J1 Visa Insurance Plans are as follows:
J1 Visa Requirements for Health Insurance
- $100,000 minimum coverage (up from $50,000)
- $50,000 minimum medical evacuation coverage (up from $10,000)
- $25,000 minimum coverage for repatriation (up from $7,500)
- $500 maximum deductible per accident or illness.
- Proof of coverage for the duration of the visa
Other Student Plans:
- International Student Health and Travel Insurance
- OPT Student Insurance
- Insurance for Student Groups and Schools
J-1 Travel Medical Plans:
WorldTrips StudentSecure is a Great Choice:
StudentSecure Insurance
- Provides Medical, Dental, and Evacuation Benefits
- Keep your coverage when your studies last multiple years
- Medical providers are available in over 130 countries worldwide
IMG Student Health Advantage Meets the Above Criteria:
Student Health Advantage
- Standard and Platinum level benefits available.
- Coverage for individuals and groups and their dependents.
- Freedom to seek treatment with hospital or doctor of your choice.
Sponsoring Organizations, Request a Quote for Group Pricing
The changes outlined here are just the main requirements of the ACA-compliant plan for a J1/J2 visa holder; additional benefits and requirements must be included. For a complete overview, visit the Federal Register’s Summary.
Another revision is the addition of two new rating categories, the ‘‘A-’’ rating by Fitch Ratings, Inc., and the ‘‘A3’’ rating by Moody’s Investor Services will now be accepted with the other rating agencies of AM Best, ISI, Standard and Poor’s and Weiss.
Although the new plan requirements went into effect on January 5, 2015, the sponsoring organization had until May 15, 2015, to amend their insurance coverage and plan benefits to meet the new requirements. All sponsoring organizations should now be compliant.
The US Department of State amended the program guidelines for the J-1 (AKA Exchange Visitor Program) that govern the designation of sponsors and the overall administration of the Program. This update encompasses technical changes to the general provisions and addresses public diplomacy and foreign policy concerns, including the Department’s ability to monitor sponsors to protect the health, safety, and welfare of foreign nationals who come to the United States as exchange visitors.
International Health Insurance for J1 or J2 Visa Holders
If you are older or want a more comprehensive international health insurance plan, you might consider one of the following options. These plans are also great for a spouse or family with children.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
- Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
- The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
GeoBlue Student Medical Coverage
- Worldwide medical coverage built for students and faculty in the U.S. and abroad.
- Select from a range of deductibles and rates.
- Choose providers either in or out of our elite network.
Additional Resources: