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Medical Insurance

J-1 regulations require that both the J-1 principal and the J-2 dependents purchase specific types and amounts of medical insurance coverage:

• The maximum amount of coverage for medical benefits can be no lower than $100,000 for each injury or illness incurred.
• In the event of the untimely death of the exchange visitor while he/she is in the United States, the insurance policy must provide at least $25,000 in benefits to allow for transport of the remains back to the home country.
• In the event that the exchange visitor has a serious illness or injury and must return to the home country, there must be insurance coverage of at least $50,000 to cover transportation back to the home country.
• The out-of-pocket insurance deductible required under the policy cannot exceed $500 per accident or illness.
• The percentage of medical expenses covered by the insurance policy must be at least 75% after the deductible has been paid. Note: Most major medical policies cover 80% of allowed benefits and the policy holder pays the 20% co-insurance.

The J-1 regulations require one of the following industry ratings for insurance companies providing health insurance coverage: A.M. Best rating of "A" or above; Insurance Solvency International Ltd. rating of "A-" or above; Standard and Poor’s Claim Paying Ability rating of "A" or above; Weiss Research, Inc. rating of "B+" or above.