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J-1 Visa Health Insurance Requirements: What Teachers & Their Families Need to Know
Moving to the U.S. as a J-1 teacher is exciting, but there’s one thing you can’t afford to overlook—health insurance. The U.S. government requires all J-1 visa holders (and their J-2 dependents) to have proper health coverage, and skipping this step can lead to visa termination. Don’t let that happen! Here’s what you need to know to stay covered and compliant.
Why Do J-1 and J-2 Visa Holders Need Health Insurance?
Unlike some countries with free healthcare, medical care in the U.S. is expensive—a simple doctor’s visit can cost hundreds of dollars, and hospital stays? Thousands! Having the right health insurance protects you from unexpected medical bills while keeping you in good standing with your visa requirements.
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J-1 Visa Health Insurance Must-Haves
To meet U.S. Department of State requirements, your health insurance must cover:
✔️ Medical Benefits: At least $100,000 per accident or illness
✔️ Medical Evacuation: At least $50,000 (to cover transport back to your home country if needed)
✔️ Repatriation of Remains: At least $25,000 (to return remains to your home country in case of death)
✔️ Deductible: No more than $500 per incident
✔️ Active Coverage: Must last for the entire duration of your stay in the U.S.
What About Your Family? (J-2 Visa Health Insurance Requirements)
If your spouse or children are joining you on a J-2 visa, they also need to have health insurance that meets the same requirements as yours. Whether they’re working, studying, or staying home, their coverage is non-negotiable to keep their visa status valid.
✅ Get a J-1 visa-approved health insurance plan hassle-free!
Compare options here: Compare health insurance options
Where to Get J-1 and J-2 Visa Health Insurance
So, where do you find the right plan? Here are your best options:
🔹 Through Your Sponsor: Some J-1 program sponsors offer health insurance—ask if yours does!
🔹 Private Insurance Providers: There are many companies offering J-1 visa-compliant plans. Shop around!
🔹 School or Employer-Sponsored Plans: If your school district provides insurance, make sure it meets the minimum requirements.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Health Insurance?
Not having the right coverage isn’t just risky—it could end your stay in the U.S. Here’s what could happen:
❌ Your visa sponsor could cancel your program.
❌ You could end up with massive medical bills if you get sick or injured.
❌ Renewing your visa or applying for future U.S. visas could be harder.
Before choosing a health insurance plan, make sure it meets J-1 visa requirements.
Get a free quote here: FREE QUOTE!
Final Thoughts
Health insurance isn’t just a boring legal requirement—it’s your safety net while you’re living and working in the U.S. Whether you’re a J-1 teacher or bringing your family on a J-2 visa, getting the right coverage means peace of mind and full compliance with visa rules.
Stay informed with more J-1 visa tips from Pinoy Teacher Stories!
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If you want to teach in the US, please email your resume to [email protected].