Top 5 Best Seller Plans for J1 Visa Holders 

Embarking on a J1 visa adventure in the US is an exciting opportunity for cultural exchange, professional development, or academic pursuits. But amidst the thrill of new experiences, prioritizing your health and well-being is crucial. Here is a breakdown of the top 5 best-selling J1 visa holder travel insurance plans, helping you choose the perfect fit for a secure and worry-free US experience. 

Table of Contents 

• J1 Visa Holders and their Insurance Requirements
• Top 5 Best Seller Plans for J1 Visa Holders 
• FAQs 
• Conclusion

J1 Visa Holders and their Insurance Requirements 

J-1 visa holders are individuals participating in exchange visitor programs in the United States. These programs are designed to foster cultural exchange, professional development, and academic pursuits. J-1 visas are issued by the US Department of State and sponsored by designated organizations, such as universities, research institutions, or government agencies. 

Things to Consider: 

• J-1 visas are typically issued for a specific program duration. 
• Certain J-1 visa categories have a “two-year home-country physical presence requirement” after program completion. This means individuals might need to return to their home country for two years before being eligible to work in the US under other visa categories. 

J1 visa holders must have health insurance that meets minimum coverage levels set by the US Department of State. This includes: 

• Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness. 
• Repatriation of remains for at least $25,000. 
• Emergency medical evacuation for at least $50,000. 
• Deductible not exceeding $500 per accident or illness. 

Top 5 Best Seller Plans for J1 Visa Holders 

Student Secure Smart 

This is a comprehensive plan, underwritten by Llyod’s, offering coverage for hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription, evacuation and repatriation, acute onset of pre-existing conditions, dental emergency, and more. It has received an A (Excellent) in the AM Best Rating. Note that this (Smart) plan does not cover pregnancy and maternity, but students can get limited coverage in Elite, Select and Budget plan. 

The special features are: 

• In network, the plan pays 80% of eligible expenses after the deductible up to the overall maximum limit. 
• $25,000 of coverage for the acute onset of a pre-existing condition. 
• Deductible is $50 per injury or illness within the PPO network, outside the US or student health center; otherwise, $100 per injury or illness. 
• Covers mental health disorders. (Check brochure for details). 
• Coverage for Outpatient Physical therapy & chiropractic care if ordered by a physician. 
• Emergency medical evacuation up to $50,000 lifetime maximum. 
• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum 
• $5 for renewals 

Study USA Basic 

This is another comprehensive plan with A (Excellent) Ratings, underwritten by Llyods. It is an excellent plan for students traveling abroad, especially full-time students and scholars coming to the US. The Basic plan does not offer coverage for COVID-19, wellness, dental accidents, terrorism, and Accidental Death & Dismemberment, but the Standard, Preferred, and Platinum do. 

The special features are: 

• $250 deductible in-network and $500 out-of-network. 
• In-network, the Basic plan pays 80% after the deductible is met up to the overall maximum limit. 
• Local ambulance coverage up to $300 per injury/illness. 
• Emergency medical evacuation up to $50,000 lifetime maximum. 
• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum. 
• Emergency Reunion (max 15 days) up to $1,500. 
• $5 for Renewals; 30-day grace period allowed for renewal. 

Patriot Exchange Standard 

This is one of the best seller plans for J1 students coming to the US, offering policy maximum up to $500,000 per injury sickness. This plan is designed to meet the US visa insurance requirements for individuals and groups of two or more students. It offers an optional add-on rider for high school sports, personal liability, and legal assistance. 

The special features are: 

• In-network the plan pays 90% and out-of-network, the plan pays 90%. 
• $5 copay in student health center. 
• $50 copayment in urgent care and $20 copayment in walk-in clinic. 
• Covers mental disorder and substance abuse. 
• Covers political evacuation and repatriation up to $10,000. 
• Covers traumatic dental injury and accidents. 
• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum 
• Medical Repatriation up to $50,000 lifetime maximum 

Student Health Advantage 

This is a comprehensive international medical insurance policy designed to protect students and scholars and meet their visa requirements. Underwritten by SiriusPoint Ltd, the plan offers coverage for physical health, mental wellness, crisis response, and financial protection, making it an ideal policy for international students on J1 visa. 

The special features are: 

•  Policy maximum up to $500,000 for students and $100,000 for dependents. 
• 90% in-network coinsurance and 100% in student health center. 
• Pre-existing education covered after 12 months of continuous coverage. Can be covered (except pregnancy) after 6 months with a 70% surcharge if student in FL, HI, ID, MA only. 
• Covers inpatient mental or nervous/ substance abuse up to $10,000. 
• Covers dental treatment and traumatic dental injury. 
• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum 
• Medical Evacuation up to $500,000 lifetime maximum 
• Coverage for Intercollegiate, interscholastic, intramural or club sports. 
• 1 or more months of coverage must be purchased for a plan to be renewable. 

GeoBlue Navigator Student Inbound 

This is yet another comprehensive plan underwritten by BCS Insurance Company with an A- (Excellent) Rating. The plan offers unlimited policy maximum to the policyholders with $0 to $5,000 annual deductible. 

The special features are: 

• The plan pays 80% up to the out-of-pocket maximum (various options available) then 100%. 
• Covers pre-existing conditions after 12 months of continuous coverage; covered immediately with prior creditable protection. 
• $30 copay per visit for doctors. 
• Covers preventive care for babies/children. 
• Covers Mental, Emotional or Functional Nervous Disorders, Alcoholism or Drug Abuse. 
• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum 
• Medical Evacuation up to $250,000 lifetime maximum 

FAQs 

Who is considered a J1 visa dependent? 

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old accompanying a J1 visa holder can qualify for a J-2 visa, making them eligible for dependent coverage under the J1 visa holder’s insurance plan (plan-specific). 

Can I fulfill the J1 visa health insurance requirement with domestic health insurance from my home country? 

 Domestic health insurance plans might not meet the minimum coverage requirements set by the US Department of State for J1 visa holders.  It is crucial to choose a plan specifically designed for J1 visas. 

What happens if I lose my job during my J1 visa program in the US? 

Losing your job might not directly affect your J1 visa travel insurance but your visa status. Also, some plans might have specific requirements regarding maintaining employment status throughout your program duration. Check your plan details for any such stipulations. 

Can I renew my J1 visa travel insurance if I extend my J1 visa program stay in the US? 

Depending on the plan you opt for, you might be able to extend your J1 visa travel insurance plan to match the extended program duration. Contact your insurance provider to discuss extension options and associated costs. 

Conclusion 

Prioritizing your health is paramount. The right J1 visa travel insurance plan offers allows you to embrace your US experience with confidence and focus on achieving your goals, whether it is academic pursuits, cultural exchange, or professional development. So, choose your plan, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey! 

For more information, call Visitor Guard®.