Frequently Asked Questions About health insurance for US visitors

Is health insurance mandatory for US visitors?

Health insurance is not mandatory for US visitors, but it is strongly advisable. While there is no legal requirement, medical care in the US can be exceptionally expensive, and having insurance ensures you are financially protected in case of illness or injury during your visit. It is a sensible and responsible choice for any visitor.

Pre pre-existing medical conditions covered?

Visitor insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, but some plans may offer coverage for  acute onset of the pre-existing condition. Some plans offer limited coverage for the acute onset, while others provide a little more comprehensive coverage. It is crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of your chosen insurance policy to understand how it addresses acute onset of pre-existing conditions for chronic or non-chronic conditions and whether any waiting periods or restrictions apply.

Is COVID-19 coverage included?

COVID-19 coverage varies among insurance plans. Typically, many plans include coverage for COVID-19 treatment just like any other illnesses. Some policies may cover quarantine expenses as well. It is recommended to check the details of your selected plan to understand the extent of COVID-19 coverage, including any restrictions or requirements.

How do I choose the right visitor insurance plan?

Choosing the right visitor insurance plan involves assessing your specific needs. Consider factors like coverage duration, coverage for pre-existing conditions, maximum coverage limits, deductibles, and cost. Additionally, check if your preferred doctors or hospitals are in-network. Evaluating these aspects will help you select a plan that best suits your requirements and budget.

Can I purchase insurance after arriving in the US?

Yes, you can purchase visitor insurance after arriving in the US. However, it is advisable to buy insurance before your trip begins to ensure you have coverage from the moment you arrive. Purchasing in advance can also help you avoid potential gaps in coverage due to unexpected delays or health issues.

What is the cost of visitor insurance?

The cost of visitor insurance varies widely based on factors like traveler’s age, trip length, policy maximum, and the deductible you choose. However, on average, a $50,000 comprehensive plan for a 45 year  individual can range from $75 to $200 per month, depending on the factors. Also, a fixed-benefit plan is cheaper than a comprehensive plan. It is essential to compare quotes and policies to find one that suits your needs and budget.

Can I extend visitor insurance if I stay longer than planned?

Yes, you can often extend your visitor insurance coverage if you decide to stay longer than initially planned as long as the policy is a renewable policy. However, this extension needs to be completed before your current policy expires. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for specific details and requirements regarding extensions.

Do I need to provide proof of insurance when applying for a US visa?

It really depends on the visa you are applying for. It is not a mandatory requirement to have travel insurance when applying for a US visitor visa but having insurance coverage can be beneficial. J visa’s do need to have mandatory insurance. However, US visa requirements can change, so it is advisable to check the latest guidelines from the US Department of State.

What is the deductible in visitor insurance?

A deductible in visitor insurance is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance begins to pay for the claims. The deductible amount is the amount you opt for while completing the  insurance application . The deductible does not affect the benefits of the policy but affects the premium you pay for the insurance. Typically, higher deductibles result in lower premium costs, while lower deductibles lead to higher premiums. How do I file a claim if I need medical assistance?

Follow these steps:

• Contact the insurance company immediately for guidance.
• Gather all necessary documents, including medical bills and receipts.
• Complete the claim form provided by your insurance company.
• Submit the claim form and supporting documents to the insurance company.
• Await processing and reimbursement, which typically takes a few weeks.

The crucial point to remember while filing a claim is to submit the claims form and the supporting documentation within the stipulated time. Usually for most of the visitor insurance plans it is within 90 days of seeing the doctor or as early as possible.

Can I choose my own healthcare provider?

Visitor insurance plans often have a network of preferred healthcare providers. While you can choose your own provider, using an in-network provider  may offer cost advantages as you can get network negotiated rates. If your plan does not support any PPO network, you can visit any doctor and later submit the medical bills to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Can I cancel my visitor insurance if my plans change?

Visitor insurance cancellation policies vary depending on the provider and plan. Generally, most insurance will let you cancel your insurance before the effective date for a full refund. However, there are a few who do not allow cancellations. For the plans that do allow cancellations, there are  $25 or $50 cancellation fees depending on the plan you opt for. After the effective date, some plans allow cancellations with partial refunds if there are no claims, while others may not offer refunds at all. If there is a claim (if paid or denied) there is no refund. Review your policy’s terms and conditions for specific details on cancellations and refunds.

What if I am pregnant during my US visit?

Visitor insurance plans do not offer pregnancy coverage. So, anything related to pregnancy will not be covered. However,  your policy can  cover any new  eligible illness or injury that may happen as long as it is not linked to pregnancy or a pre-existing conditioni but check policy terms before buying a plan.

Can I get insurance if I have a chronic condition?

Visitor insurance applications do not ask you for medical history.  Though pre-existing conditions are not covered by the insurance, some plans may cover unexpected exacerbations of the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. Some plans may cover acute onset of only non-chronic conditions while some may provide some coverage for an acute onset of pre-existing conditions resulting in a cardiac condition or stroke.

Can I use my US visitor insurance outside the US?

Typically, visitor insurance is designed to cover medical expenses incurred outside your country of residence or country of citizenship.   It is essential to check your policy details, on how the policy you have opted for covers geographical areas. Some plans may require you to come to the US first before you travel anywhere else, while others will say coverage is provided everywhere but your country of residence.

Can I add family members to my visitor insurance plan?

Many visitor insurance plans allow you to add family members, such as a spouse or children, to your policy for additional coverage as long as you add them at the time of application. When the policy is in effect, typically you will have to complete a new application if you would like to add coverage for a dependent. In other words, you cannot add a dependent person to an existing visitor insurance policy.  If you want to add your aged parents, you may need to buy separate policies for both the individual. Be sure to review the policy details and contact the insurance provider for specific information on adding family members.

Can I renew my visitor insurance if my stay is extended?

Yes, most visitor insurance plans offer the option to renew or extend your coverage if your stay in the US is extended. This is particularly useful if your initial policy is about to expire, and you need continued insurance protection for a longer duration. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about renewal options and eligibility criteria.

Is dental and vision care covered?

Dental and vision care coverage varies among visitor insurance plans. Some plans may offer limited coverage for emergency dental and vision treatment due to accidents, while routine dental and vision check-ups are typically not covered.

What happens if I miss a premium payment?

If you miss a premium payment for your visitor insurance, your coverage may be terminated, and you might not be eligible for any benefits or claims during the period when your premium is unpaid. It is crucial to adhere to the payment schedule and contact your insurance provider promptly to address any missed payments or coverage issues.

Can I switch insurance plans during my visit?

You cannot switch insurance plans during your visit. Visitor insurance plans typically have fixed coverage periods, and changes are limited. You can cancel the plan and complete a new application for another policy depending on the cancellation terms of the existing policy. There could be implications in switching the policies if there is an existing condition that is being treated or if there is a claim on file. It is essential to choose a plan that suits your needs before your trip, as alterations after the policy’s start date are usually not allowed. Contact your insurance provider for specific details.

Is terrorism coverage included?

Terrorism coverage varies among insurance plans. Some include it as part of their coverage, while others may offer it as an optional add-on. It is advised to carefully review your policy documents to understand the extent of terrorism coverage provided by your specific plan, as terms and conditions can vary.

Can I get coverage if I am a senior traveler?

Yes, many insurance providers offer coverage for senior travelers. Many plans can be bought till the age of 99 years. However, the  terms of coverage may vary depending on your age and the insurance plan. Some plans may have limits on the amount of coverage, depending on the age, while others specialize in coverage for older travelers.

What is the waiting period for coverage to start?

Typically, there is no waiting period for visitor insurance plans to start. Coverage can begin as early as the next day or a future date after you submit the application. Some student plans might have waiting periods for some benefits.  Be sure to review the terms and conditions of your chosen plan to understand the waiting period.

What if my passport and visa are lost or stolen?

If your passport and visa are lost or stolen during your trip, you should immediately contact the local authorities to report the theft and obtain a police report. Then, contact your country’s embassy or consulate for assistance in obtaining a replacement passport and visa. In parallel, inform your insurance provider about the loss to see if any assistance is available for such incidents.

Can I get visitor insurance if I am a green card holder?

Yes, as a green card holder, you can still buy visitor insurance if you meet the plan’s eligibility. Many insurance providers offer plans tailored to green card holders, providing coverage outside the country of residence for various medical and travel-related needs. However, not all green card holders can buy visitor insurance.