Health Care Insurance

J-1 students and visitors are required by law to obtain health insurance. Not only will J-1 students find that they are removed from class rolls for not having appropriate medical coverage, they will also be in violation of their status. IIS can offer J-1 visitors sources of approved medical coverage. J-1 visitors may obtain medical insurance from other sources, but the coverage must meet federal regulations.

The American health care system is very expensive. Health insurance is absolutely necessary to protect against extreme costs due to accident or illness. Federal regulations regarding insurance coverage for J-1 visitors also apply to their dependents. You must meet the full federal requirements for insuring all J-2 dependents. Again, IIS can offer you several examples of approved coverage. Insurance is not retroactive. That is, you cannot apply for insurance to help with the birth of your child AFTER your spouse becomes pregnant.

F-1 students 

F-1 students are required to obtain health insurance for themselves after they arrive, OR provide proof of health insurance purchased before/after their arrival. If you fail to show proof of health insurance or to purchase insurance after your arrival, your name will be purged from enrollment records at the university. This means you will not be allowed to attend classes. IIS provides information on general health insurance plans for international students, or you may provide proof of insurance from another source. The opportunity to purchase insurance here will be provided during orientation. 

The American health care system is very expensive. Health insurance is absolutely necessary to protect against extreme costs due to accident or illness. It is strongly recommended that F-1 students purchase health insurance coverage for all F-2 dependents. Medical expenses in the U.S. can be extraordinarily expensive! Carefully consider any form of insurance provider and purchase insurance coverage for all F-2 dependents. Insurance is not retroactive. That is, you cannot apply for insurance to help with the birth of your child AFTER your spouse becomes pregnant.