You and your dependents are required by law to be covered by medical insurance that meets specified benefit levels. You must have coverage for the duration of your program.
The Department of State requires specific medical insurance coverage for all J-1 exchange visitors and their J-2 family members.
Minimum coverage requirements
Below are insurance requirements for J-1/J-2 visa holders. Each accompanying dependent must be covered by insurance in the same amounts.- Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness
- Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000
- Medical evacuation $50,000
- A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
Finding the policy that is right for you
Evaluate different insurance products to find one that best suits your circumstances. Consider factors such as:- If you are married or single
- Whether you participate in sports activities that might raise your risk of injury
- If you need maternity coverage
Take the medical insurance requirement seriously
Willful failure to maintain required insurance coverage for the duration of the J-1 program is a violation of the law. Your participation in the exchange visitor program could be terminated as a consequence.Other helpful information
- Health Insurance Basics: How Do I Choose the Right Plan? YouTube video with captioning and transcript available
- How insurance premiums and deductibles work YouTube video with captioning and transcript available
- What Are Deductibles, Coinsurance, and Copays? YouTube video with captioning and transcript available
- What is in- and out-of-network? YouTube video with captioning and transcript available