J-1 Exchange Visitors as well as their accompanying spouses and dependents (J-2s) are required to maintain proper health insurance that covers the entire duration of the J-1 program and must meet the minimum criteria set by the U.S. Department of State as outlined below [22 CFR 62.14]:
- Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness
- Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000
- Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $50,000
- A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
An insurance policy secured to meet the benefits requirements must be underwritten by an insurance corporation with an A.M. Best rating of “A-” or above, an Insurance Solvency International, Ltd. (ISI) rating of “A-I” or above, a Standard and Poor’s Claims Paying Ability rating of “A-” or above, or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of B+ or above. Alternatively, the sponsor may ascertain that the participant’s policy is backed by the full faith and credit of the government of the exchange visitor’s home country. For other options, see [22 CFR 62.14].
Failure to Maintain Health Insurance
If the Exchange Visitor or any J-2 dependents intentionally fail to maintain the required health insurance coverage, their participation in the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program will be terminated.
Insurance through TCU
Please note that the employee insurance coverage offered through TCU does not meet the minimum requirements established by the U.S. Department of State. For a list of potential insurance providers, kindly consult your ISO Gateway portal.