Is It Better to Get Separate Visitor Insurance for Each Parent, or Put Both on The Same Policy? 

When parents plan a trip to the United States, one of the most important questions families ask is: “Should we buy separate visitor insurance for each parent, or place both on the same policy?” With high medical costs and frequent travel by elderly parents, choosing the right insurance strategy is crucial for financial protection and peace of mind. 

This guide explores the key differences between separate and joint visitor insurance policies, helping families make an informed decision based on coverage, cost, flexibility, and practical needs. 

Table of Contents: 

• Why Is Visitor Insurance Essential for Parents Visiting the US? 
• Comparing Separate Visitor Insurance vs. Joint Visitor Insurance Policies 
• Cost Comparison: Separate vs. Joint Visitor Insurance Policies 
• Which Option Is Better for Parents Visiting the USA? 
• Conclusion 

Why Do Parents Need Visitor Insurance in the US? 

Parents traveling to the US on B2 visas (tourist visas) are not eligible for domestic plans Medicare or other US government health programs available to residents. Without insurance, even minor treatments can be costly: 

• An emergency room visit can cost $3,000–$5,000. 
• Hospitalization for a heart condition can easily exceed $100,000. 
• Prescription drugs, diagnostic tests, and follow-up visits can quickly add up. 

Visitor insurance protects against these expenses, covering accidents, sudden illnesses, and emergencies. Without coverage, families risk significant out-of-pocket costs.  

Comparing Separate Visitor Insurance vs. Joint Visitor Insurance Policies 

Option 1: Separate Visitor Insurance for Each Parent 

✅ Advantages 

• Tailored Coverage: Each parent can choose a plan based on their age, health condition, and travel duration. For example, higher maximums for older or at-risk travelers. 
• Independent Claims: If one parent files a claim, it does not affect the other’s coverage. Each parent enjoys individual policy benefits for easier use. 
• Travel Flexibility: Separate policies accommodate different travel dates and durations, which is especially useful if one parent extends their stay 
• Clearer Renewal Options: If one parent extends their stay, only their policy can be renewed. 
• Recommended for Elderly Travelers: Insurance providers often advise separate policies for seniors due to different health risks and stay lengths. 

❌ Disadvantages 

• Managing two policies involves slightly more paperwork; 

Option 2: Joint Visitor Insurance Policy (Both Parents on One Plan) 

✅ Advantages 

• Convenience: One policy covers both parents, reducing administrative effort. 
• Combined Billing: Easier to keep track of premium payments with one plan. 
• Possible Discounts: Some insurers offer family or group discounts when multiple people (typically more than two for a group) are on the same policy. 

❌ Disadvantages 

• Limited Customization: Both parents receive the same deductible, policy maximum, and benefits, even if their needs differ. 
• Travel Schedule Restrictions: If parents are not traveling on identical dates, a joint plan may cause inconvenience with coverage dates. 
• Claim Complexity: Filing claims for multiple individuals under the same policy may be more complicated for the insured. 

Cost Comparison: Separate vs. Joint Visitor Insurance Policies 

Separate Policies: Premiums are calculated individually, usually based on age, trip duration, deductible, and coverage amount. For elderly parents (70+), premiums are higher, but each parent has their own policy maximum. 

Joint Policies: If parents are travelling on different dates, joint policies can be inconvenient. Also, if parents are in different age categories e.g., one parent is above 70 years while the other parent is below 70 years, choice of plans and policy maximums might be different.   

Which Option Is Better for Parents? 

For most families, separate visitor insurance for each parent is the better choice. Here is why: 

• Better Protection: Each parents travel dates or claims will not affect the others renewability or policy.  
• Tailored Benefits: Parents of different ages or health profiles can choose plans that best suit them. 
• Flexibility in Travel: Separate policies accommodate different arrival or departure dates without complications. 
• Clearer Claim Process: Independent claims are easier to handle and less likely to cause delays. 

A joint policy can be considered if: 

• Both parents are younger, in good health, and travel for a short period. 
• You prefer simplicity and convenience over flexibility. 

Conclusion 

Deciding between separate and joint visitor insurance policies depends on your parents’ travel plans, age, health, and need for customization. For most elderly travelers, separate policies ensure full coverage, travel flexibility, and clear claims processing. Joint policies may be suitable for younger, healthier couples who prioritize simple billing and group discounts over individual customization. 

At Visitor Guard®, families can compare and select the most suitable visitor insurance plans for their parents before arriving in the United States. Get a free quote today to safeguard your loved ones’ health and financial security during their travels.