J-1 Medical Insurance Requirements
Students and visiting scholars who hold J-1 status are required to have medical insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents throughout their stay in the US.
The United States Information Agency (USIA) has mandated that any insurance plan purchased by a J-1 visa holder meet the following criteria:
- medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
- repatriation of remains in the amount of $7,500
- medical evacuation to the home country in the amount of $10,000
- a deductible (the amount for which you are responsible before insurance coverage becomes effective) not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
- copayment of medical expenses (the portion not covered by insurance that the insured pays him or herself) or no more than 25%
Most J-1 students will enroll themselves and their families in the University of Pennsylvania's Student Health Insurance Plan. J-1 scholars are not eligible for this plan but may be eligible for coverage provided to Penn staff, and have the opportunity to purchase coverage for their families through the University.
Those scholars who are not able to purchase a University insurance plan should consult an ISSS advisor for information.
Visit the US Department of State web site for more information on J-1 medical insurance requirements.