Health Insurance for J-1 Exchange Visitors
Regulations
As a J-1 Exchange Visitor in the United States, you are required to carry health insurance for yourself and your J-2 dependents for the full duration of your J-1 program. Government regulations stipulate that if you willfully fail to carry health insurance for yourself and your dependents, your J-1 sponsor must terminate your program, and report the termination to the United States Department of State (DOS) in Washington.
Coverage Requirements
While you hold J-1 or J-2 status, you are required to carry the following type and amounts of coverage:
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Accident or illness coverage (Amount of the cost of care that the insurance plan will cover) |
$100,000 minimum for each accident or illness |
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Evacuation (Insurance to cover the cost of return travel home due to serious illness) |
$50,000 minimum |
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Repatriation (Insurance to cover the cost to send your remains to your home country should you die in the United States) |
$25,000 minimum |
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Deductible (Amount you are responsible to pay before insurance begins its coverage) |
$500 maximum |
Insurance Options
You have a few different options to comply with the health insurance requirements. The following options are available to you based on if you are or are not employed at least 50% with the University of Maryland.
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On University of Maryland Payroll (at least 50% time) |
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Maryland Benefits Plan |
All insurance plans offered meet health insurance requirements. To include evacuation and repatriation, you must also purchase a supplemental policy through a private vendor. |
Contact your department or UMCES Human Resources |
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Do not receive funding from University of Maryland |
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You may choose from 2 types of health insurance plans: |
Insurance from your home country Proof in English detailing the requirements of your coverage must be provided to UMCES HR. |
Before purchasing a plan from your home country to use while you are at the University of Maryland, please verify that it meets all requirements and specifications. |
To obtain a document from your insurance company that it meets the requirements, you may submit this letter. |
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Insurance from another U.S. company These policies differ greatly, so if the plan is not indicated here, we must see proof detailing that the coverage meets the requirements. |
The following policies meet all health insurance requirements, but vary greatly. We advise you to read any plan you are considering carefully and make the best decision based on your personal situation. |
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