tourist visa health insurance usa

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Best Travel Insurance for Visiting the U.S.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

Travel insurance basics

Best visitors insurance policies, for the lowest price: trawick international, for customizing options: worldtrips, for pre-existing conditions: worldtrips, for highest medical coverage limit: img, other options to consider, the bottom line.

Since health care can be expensive in the U.S., it’s important that visitors have insurance coverage, aka visitors insurance or travel medical insurance, in case something happens that requires medical attention mid-trip.

Whether you have coverage for travel in the U.S. depends on your health care plan in your home country. But if you don't, you'll need to buy a policy from a third-party insurance provider. Several companies sell this kind of visitor insurance, and each company and policy is a bit different. Let’s look at which is best for you.

First, a few basics about visitor insurance. Two kinds are available: travel medical insurance and trip insurance.

Travel medical insurance covers medical expenses that you may incur while traveling internationally, like a visit to the doctor, a trip to the hospital and medical evacuation and repatriation.

Trip insurance usually covers limited medical expenses like emergency care and can compensate you if your trip is delayed, you need to leave the trip early or you have to cancel the trip. It is designed to help you protect the investment you’re making as you prepare to travel.

Standard trip insurance might not cover a visit to the doctor unless it is an emergency.

It’s important to make sure any pre-existing conditions are covered if the visitor has any. Some policies exclude them.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

With so many kinds of visitors insurance policies, which is the best?

To make comparisons, we got quotes from several companies using Squaremouth , a website to search for different types of travel insurance in one place.

The parameters we set are for a 49-year-old citizen and resident of Spain traveling to the U.S. on May 1-31, 2024.

The quotes don't include cancellation coverage; these examples are for medical coverage only. To get a quote, the hypothetical deposit for the trip was paid on Feb. 15.

Since we’re looking for a policy that will cover medical care for visitors, there are several medical filters to select: emergency medical ($100,000 or more), medical evacuation ($100,000 or more) and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

The search came up with nine results ranging in price from $74.40 to $179.18.

The policy with the lowest cost was the Trawick International 's Safe Travels USA Cost Saver at $74.40.

Trawick policies use the FirstHealth PPO network.

The policy as quoted has a $250 deductible and includes $100,000 in emergency medical, $2 million in medical evacuation and $5,000 in interruption coverage. It has limited coverage for pre-existing conditions.

It is possible to change the deductible to as little as $0 or raise it to $5,000.

The same company has another policy, the Trawick International Safe Travels USA Comprehensive policy, that is better at covering pre-existing conditions and costs a little more — $89.59.

The general coverage is the same as the less expensive policy, and the Safe Travels USA Comprehensive option adds coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition. it is possible to change the deductible amount to $0 or go up to $5,000.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Some policies are sold as is, while others allow some flexibility depending on what is important to you.

The WorldTrips Atlas Premium America policy for $179.18 allows a lot of customization.

It was also the most expensive of the nine policies Squaremouth suggested.

It’s possible to customize the emergency medical coverage and pre-existing condition coverage and medical deductible. The policy also includes $15,000 in trip interruption coverage, the highest of any of the nine policies available.

If the traveler has a pre-existing condition, policies from WorldTrips Atlas America are your best bet. The WorldTrips Atlas America policy in our comparison costs $101.06.

The policy as quoted covers $100,000 in emergency medical care and $25,000 in medical evacuation for an unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition.

The deductible is also available for customization from $0 to $5,000.

The PPO network for Atlas America Insurance is United Healthcare.

The WorldTrips Atlas Premium America policy mentioned above is also good for pre-existing condition coverage.

While eight of the nine policies had $100,000 in secondary medical coverage, one had a limit of $2 million.

The IMG Patriot America Platinum policy has a premium of $172.36 along with a high medical evacuation limit of $2 million and interruption coverage of $10,000.

If $2 million in medical coverage is not enough, it’s possible to increase that amount to an $8 million policy limit.

It’s not possible to change the level of coverage for preexisting conditions from the high $1 million limit in emergency medical care and $25,000 in medical evacuation for an unexpected recurrence.

It is possible to change the deductible from $0 all the way up to $25,000.

Our comparison also included policies from two additional companies, Seven Corners and Global Underwriters .

Seven Corners had two policies come up in the results, the Seven Corners Travel Medical Basic for $98.27 and the Seven Corners Travel Medical Choice policy for $136.71. Both of the Seven Corners policies include coverage for hurricane and weather, and the less expensive policy covers acts of terrorism.

Having insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses for anyone visiting the U.S. can be a smart money move.

An illness or accident could cause financial problems for visitors because of potentially having to pay for full health care costs. When planning your travel, be sure to check your current health insurance to find out if it will cover you in the U.S.

For a monthlong stay in the U.S., the lowest-priced visitors insurance policy was around $75 (Trawick International Safe Travels USA Cost Saver) and the highest was about $180 (WorldTrips Atlas Premium America). That’s about $2.42 or $5.81 a day, depending on the policy.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

• Visitor visa insurance USA

Best health insurance for visa holders in US

What is the traveler's destination?

What is the nationality of the traveler?

Is the traveler looking for?

Does the traveler need Schengen Visa Insurance or Long term Europe Visa insurance?

What is the Visa of the traveler?

Does the traveler have any pre-existing medical conditions?

Type of Insurance?

Destination State?

Traveler's residence?

What is the Maximum Coverage?

What is the Deductible Amount?

Please Select Mailing Address

Search visa types, health insurance for us visas.

The US Visa is the document required for non US citizens (or Non Green card holders) to enter the United States. There are different Visa (Tourist Visa Health Insurance) categories depending the type of traveler, be it for work, study, business or vacation. These visa's are valid for multiple visits during a specified time period. The visas issued for visiting the US or immigrating to the US are listed below along with the health insurance needed for the American visa.

US visitor Visa health insurance (Health insurance for B2 visa insurance)

• Health insurance for non residents in USA with tourist visa is very important as they are ineligible for domestic health insurance in the USA.
• The safest way to secure oneself is buying US tourist visa health insurance. These US tourist visa insurance are useful for vacationers to cover medical expenses.
• Tourists can compare visitor visa insurance and buy the right US health insurance for tourist visa that best suits one's requirements.

J1 Visa Insurance

• Exchange scholars to the USA can purchase J1 Visa Insurance and fulfil insurance requirements mandated by the US consulate.
• US J1 visa health insurance covers the insured for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, prescription drugs expenses and accidental death and dismemberment...
• J1 visa holders can compare popular J visa medical insurance offered by various insurers and buy online.

US J2 Visa Insurance

• The J2 visa holders or dependents (spouses) of J1 visa holders require medical insurance while in the USA to cope with the exorbitant health care system.
• The US consulate has mandated health insurance for the J2 dependents and this requirement is satisfied by J2 visa insurance plans we offer.
• The coverage details of J2 visa insurance plan are available on the website.

K1 Visa or Fiancée visa insurance

• A fiancée coming to the USA (man or woman) from a foreign country require K1 visa which also called as fiancée visa.
• The insurance providers offer medical insurance for fiancées who come to the US with K1 visa permit.
• K1 visa insurance covers the insured for medical costs incurred in case of an medical emergency.

US Student Visa (F1 visa) Insurance

• International students in the USA with F1 visa and their dependents with F2 visa are eligible to purchase student medical insurance while staying in the US for their education.
• To help students make an informed decision while buying F1 visa health insurance, we have designed a compare tool. Students can easily compare student medical insurance and buy a plan online.

M2 visa insurance

• M2 visa is issued for dependents of M1 visa holders to USA.

US Immigrant Visa (Green card holders)

• An immigrant is someone who is not a U.S. citizen but has been authorized to permanently live and work in the United States.
• According to current American immigration law new immigrants will be eligible for domestic health insurance coverage only after five years stay in the USA
• Immigrants can compare US immigrant health insurance plans online before buying them.

United States H1B Visa Insurance

• H1B Visa insurance is required given the medical care costs are very high in the US and Canada.
• You can buy short term insurance plan for the duration of your stay in the USA / Canada.
• This US H1b health insurance will cover you for accident and sickness which includes medical care expenses such as Doctors visits, Hospital fees and Medicines.

H4 Visa Insurance

• H4 visa health insurance is very important while staying in the USA.
• Spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of H1B visa holders are considered visitors and US domestic health insurance plans are not applicable for them.
• H4 visa health insurance is a need for the dependents of H1B visa holders to cope with the exorbitant health care system in case of a medical emergency.
• Immigrants can compare H4 visa health insurance plans online before buying them.

M1 Visa Insurance

• Students with M1 Student visa enrolled in vocational or technical colleges.

F2 Visa Insurance

• F2 visa health insurance for Spouse or children of an F1 visa holder.

Insurance for B1 Visa Holders

• US health Insurance for travelers with B1 visa on a business trip.

P visa insurance

• A P visa holder is an international athlete, artist, or an entertainer in the United States.

L1 Visa Insurance

• Health insurance for foreign nationals with L1 visa employee status in an international company with offices in both the United States and abroad.

R1 Visa Insurance

• Medical insurance for foreign R1 visa requirements holders travelling to United States for service as a minister or other religious occupation

Insurance for green card holders

• The best health insurance for elderly parents holding green cards will vary depending on the insured's age, the length of stay in the US, and the price you are willing to pay.

E2 Visa Insurance

• US Visitors Medical Insurance works as E2 Visa health insurance for E2 Visa holders.

Tourist Visa Insurance

• Tourist visas and travel medical insurance in the US

Spouse visa Insurance

• US travel medical insurance for spouse visa holders.

O visa insurance

• O1 visa is a non-immigrant US visa for people with extraordinary ability in their area of expertise.

I visa insurance

Q1 visa insurance

• Q - nonimmigrant visa is issued for individuals who want to participate in international cultural exchange programs

Travel insurance for Schengen visa

• Insurance providers should have an representative bureau in Europe
• Medical evacuation and repatriation emergency cover of at least EUR 30,000
• Insurance must be valid for duration of stay in the Schengen states

Health insurance for visa holders in US - FAQ's

01.  do i need travel insurance for us visa is it mandatory to get health insurance for a us tourist visa can i get health insurance with a tourist visa.

The US government has announced in October 2019 that from November 2019 all new immigrant visa applicants should provide proof of proper health insurance in the US. This new rule will directly impact new immigrants visa applications to the US. The aim of this compulsory us consulate immigrant visa health insurance requirement is to reduce the burden on the US health care system by uninsured new US immigrants.

While this rule is aimed at those applying for immigrant visas, we hear that travelers even on other visas are expected to have proper short term medical insurance. The US short term health insurance plans offered here work ideally for all visas whether they are visitors, J visa, H1b Visas... to the US or new US immigrants. After purchasing health insurance for non-immigrant visa holder in USA, customers will receive the visitor immigrant insurance document by email. Customers can show this visitor immigrant insurance document as proof of US health insurance while applying for the tourist visa or Immigrant visa. Given the high cost of US healthcare for visitors and immigrants , it is in any event important for all tourists and new immigrants to buy adequate US health insurance .

02.  Is visitor visa health insurance USA required?

Visitor visa health insurance is a necessity while in the US since US health care is very expensive. Not having tourist visa health insurance in usa can be financially catastrophic. Having visitor visa health insurance for USA visitors can be a huge relief which comes in handy during any major unexpected sickness or injury while in the United States. Tourists on the visitor visa are urged to buy the best health insurance for visitors to USA to have a safe stay in the country.

03.  How to buy visitors insurance? How to find the best visitor health insurance?

There are many visitor health insurance plans for coverage in the USA offered by US insurance providers. Given the several US visitor insurance options, it can be confusing to find the best health insurance for travel to USA for your needs. What is very useful in making this decision is to compare travel insurance USA of different companies. The US travel insurance comparison allows travelers compare prices as well as coverage benefits in an objective manner.

The traveler can change relevant factors like the medical maximum coverage required, the US traveler insurance deductible, any US travel health insurance plans with coverage for pre-existing ailments, travel insurance USA coverage for Covid19... The global travel insurance comparison also allows travelers to buy the best travel insurance based on ones needs by completing an online application and paying using a credt card. One completing the purchase the travel insurance plan is emailed to the customer.

04.  What is visitor visa insurance for the USA?

Visitor visa insurance for the USA is a type of travel medical insurance that provides coverage for individuals visiting the United States on a temporary basis. It protect visitors financially from unexpected medical expenses and other travel-related risks during their stay outside their home country.

Visitor visa insurance USA is short-term travel health insurance for foreigners visiting the US for a short visit, typically the duration of their US tourist visa. US visitor visa insurance provides coverage for family members like, parents, in-laws or tourists visiting the US and can cover medical expenses for illnesses, injuries, or accidents. Visitors visa insurance is needed for international travelers because the US healthcare costs are exorbitant and domestic insurance or Medicare will not cover visitors to the US. Visitor visa insurance can also apply for Schengen visa insurance which satisfies Schengen visa requirements for tourists visiting Europe. Visitors visa insurance can be bought on American Visitor Insurance online with ease and without any paperwork.

05.  Is visitor visa insurance mandatory for traveling to the USA?

While visitor visa insurance is not mandatory by law for entering the USA on a tourist visa, it is still highly recommended. The cost of US healthcare is extremely high, and without insurance, visitors may be responsible for covering all medical expenses out of pocket in case of illness or injury. Some visa categories, such as J1, H1B, and F1 visas, may require visitor visa insurance for meeting insurance mandates either by US authorities or by educational institutes.

06.  What does visitor visa insurance typically cover?

Visitor visa insurance covers medical expenses for illnesses and injuries that occur after the visitors visa insurance policy is in effect. This may include hospitalization, urgent care, intensive care, doctor visits, dental cover, evacuation and repatriation. Other benefits may include trip interruption, accidental death, loss or delay of baggage and passport theft. The coverage may vary depending on the plan and provider you choose, so you compare the best visitors visa insurance plans on American visitor insurance to understand the benefits and limitations of these plans.

07.  Are pre-existing conditions covered by visitor visa insurance?

Visitors visa insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions will vary depending on the specific visitors insurance policy. INF visitor insurance plans offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, while some other visa insurance plans offer coverage only for acute onset of pre-existing conditions, while still others may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions altogether. It is important to compare the different visitors visa insurance for pre-existing conditions on AmericanVisitorInsurance.com before buying it.

08.  How long can visitor visa insurance coverage be purchased for?

Visitor visa insurance coverage can typically be purchased for the duration of the visitor's stay in the United States. Coverage can range from a few days to several months, depending on the visitor's travel plans. It is important to select a policy that aligns with the intended length of stay or one that can be extended if needed.

09.  How do I choose the right visitor visa insurance plan?

When choosing a visitor visa insurance plan, it is recommended to compare the best visa insurance plans on American Visitor Insurance before making a decision.

Some factors to consider while finding the best visitors visa insurance for your needs are:

• The coverage amount: This is the maximum amount that the plan will pay for eligible expenses. You may want to choose a higher coverage amount if you are travelling to a country with high healthcare costs or if you have a higher risk of medical emergencies.
• The deductible: This is the amount that you have to pay out of pocket before the plan starts paying for eligible expenses. You may want to choose a lower deductible if you want to reduce your upfront costs or if you expect to use the plan frequently.
• The co-insurance: This is the percentage of eligible expenses that you have to share with the plan after paying the deductible. You may want to choose a lower co-insurance if you want to reduce your out-of-pocket costs or if you expect to incur high medical bills.
• The coverage benefits: These are the specific types of expenses that the plan covers, such as hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, dental care, evacuation, repatriation, etc. You may want to choose a plan that covers the benefits that are most important or relevant to you.
• The exclusions: These are the specific types of expenses that the plan does not cover, such as pre-existing conditions, preventive care, maternity care, sports injuries, etc. You may want to avoid plans that exclude the expenses that you are likely to incur or that are essential for your health.
• The PPO network: This is the group of providers that the plan has contracted with to offer discounted rates and direct billing. You may want to choose a plan that has a large and accessible network of providers in your destination country or that allows you to use any provider of your choice.
• The customer service: This is the quality and availability of support that the plan offers to its customers. You may want to choose a plan that has a 24/7 helpline, online claim filing, mobile app, etc.
• You can compare different visitor visa insurance plans online on AmericanVisitorInsurance.com .

10.  How much does visitor visa insurance for the USA typically cost?

The cost of visitor visa insurance for the USA varies depending on several factors, such as:

• The type of plan: There are two main types of plans – limited or fixed benefit plans and comprehensive plans. Limited benefit plans are cheaper but offer lower coverage and more exclusions. Comprehensive plans are more expensive but offer higher coverage and fewer exclusions.
• The age of the traveler: Older travelers are more likely to incur higher medical expenses, so they have to pay higher premiums for visitor visa insurance.
• The coverage amount: This is the maximum amount that the plan will pay for eligible expenses. Higher coverage amounts mean higher premiums.
• The deductible: This is the amount that you have to pay before the plan starts paying for eligible expenses. Higher deductibles mean lower premiums.
• The co-insurance: This is the percentage of eligible expenses that you have to share with the plan after paying the deductible. Higher co-insurance means lower premiums.
• The duration of stay: Longer stays mean higher premiums as there is more risk of medical emergencies.

On average, it can range from 4% to 10% of the trip cost. However, it is important to compare quotes from insurance providers on AmericanVisitorInsurance.com to get the best cost estimate.

11.  How can I purchase visitor visa insurance for the USA?

Visitor visa insurance for the USA can be purchased online on AmericanVisitorInsurance.com . Here the visitors visa insurance plans offered by the well known US companies are compare and objectively listed based on costs and coverage benefits.

The steps involved to buy the insurance are:

• Compare different plans and prices based on your needs, preferences, and budget on AmericanVisitorInsurance.com .
• Choose a plan that meets your requirements and the visa criteria.
• Fill out an online application form with your personal and travel details.
• Pay the premium online using a credit card or other payment methods.
• You will receive a confirmation email with your policy number and other details.
• Print out your policy document and insurance card. You will need to show these documents when applying for your visa and when seeking medical care in the USA.

12.  What documents do I need to purchase visitor visa insurance?

Generally, you will need to provide information such as the travelers name, date of birth, passport details, and travel dates to purchase visitor visa insurance. You may also need to provide the details of your Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) beneficiary. You should have your passport and visa handy when filling out the online application form. You should also have a valid credit card ready to pay the premium online.

13.  Can visitor visa insurance be extended if my stay in the USA is prolonged?

Some visitor visa insurance plans offer the option to extend coverage if your stay in the USA is prolonged beyond the original policy duration. However, this is not always guaranteed, and it is important to check the terms and conditions of your policy or contact the insurance provider directly to inquire about extension options. You can request the extension online by logging into your account on the visitors visa insurance provider's website and following the instructions. You will receive a confirmation email with your new policy details and expiry date on completing the extension application payment.

Visitors insurance for seniors

Visitor medical insurance for travelers above 60 years

Visitor medical insurance for travelers above 65 years

US Visitors insurance for travelers above 70 years

Visitor medical insurance for travelers above 75 years

Visitor health Insurance for travelers above 80 years

US Visitors insurance for travelers above 90 years

Best Seniors travel insurance with Pre-existing Conditions Coverage

Pre-existing condition is a medical ailment that existed before the travel insurance became effective. Another term that we come across more frequently in insurance policies is "Acute onset of pre-existing condition" .Acute onset of pre-existing condition is a sudden relapse of the pre-existing condition without advance warning which requires medical attention within 24 hours.

Travelers with pre-existing conditions always find it hard to buy travel health insurance. Some of the common conditions that are considered as pre-existing conditions are asthma, food & drug allergies, environmental allergies, heart related issues, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, and diabetes. Typically all insurance providers have their terms and conditions for the pre-existing condition coverage provided. Most do not cover anything related to a pre-existing condition. Travelers can buy a travel insurance policy without a medical check, however chronic illnesses like cancer, parkinson's disease, Amnesia...which cannot be cured are not covered by the travel health insurance policies. With the pre-existing condition there is a "look back" period of 60-180 days to determine the claim. Most of the Insurance providers consider the age of the individual as a factor for providing this benefit. Most of the policies do not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions at the age of 70 and more.

Some US insurance providers offer senior citizen travel insurance for pre-existing conditions above the age of 80 with fixed or limited coverage. The Safe Travels USA, Safe Travels USA Cost Saver, and Safe Travels USA Comprehensive all offer $1000 coverage for pre-existing conditions without limitation to chronic illness. If travelers have a medical condition they are concerned about, it is very important for them to buy a policy that includes the illnesses in the coverage and to be aware of the terms of pre-existing condition coverage.

INF is one of the few companies which offers travel insurance plans for travelers with flexible coverage for pre-existing ailments. They define pre-existing conditions differently and do not exclude chronic illness. First of all, if the person has had no flare up or change in their condition, even if they take medication for it (as long as there has been no change in medication) for 12 months prior to the start of the plan, then the plan does not consider it as a pre-existing condition. If there has been a flare up or change in the condition, then it is covered but at a lower maximum than the overall maximum of the plan and may be subject to a higher deductible.

They have two plans which have this coverage: INF Premier and INF Elite. The Premier plan is a fixed plan which has limitations on the coverage of each medical expense. The Elite plan is an 80/20 comprehensive plan (the plan pays 80% and the insured 20% after the deductible). INF offers the best travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions but the difference is reflected in the cost, particularly in the Elite plan. Note that regularly needed maintenance medications or treatments are still not covered with these plans, only if there is a new problem will there be coverage. However, the problem does not need to be life-threatening or acute. Travelers with pre-existing conditions should weigh these options to reduce their risk of high medical costs should they suffer from one of their conditions while traveling. Note that the plans need to be purchased for at least 90 days, so these are more suitable for longer term stays in US, Canada, and/or Mexico. Also, the plans may be purchased by green card holders as long as they have a non-US residence address. The Elite plan has several variations: INF Elite , Elite Plus and INF Elite 90 .

To compare the best travel insurance for seniors visiting USA for flexible pre-existing conditions plans offered by INF, use this link: INF Premier & INF Elite best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Testimonials - From Our Customers

I am pleased to say that your company is very professional in the field of Insurance. The customer is happy to get... Know more »

Appreciate all the help that you provided me. It really worked well and I was able to purchase the cover I was... Know more »

Thank you American Visitor Insurance! You went way beyond what I would expect from an insurance company ... Know more »

Resourceful tourist insurance USA information

Find the best travel insurance.

Find out the best insurance for your budget and needs

How does travel insurance work?

Claims process for expenses due to injury or sickness

How to buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance glossary.

Commonly used international travel medical insurance terms

Travel insurance for specific groups

Compare travel insurance plans, more tourist medical insurance usa categories.

Compare Visitors insurance USA

USA New immigrant Insurance

US visa health insurance

Senior Citizen travel insurance

Pre-existing visitors insurance

J1 Visa health insurance

International student Insurance

Green Card medical insurance

International Medical Insurance

Cruises Travel Insurance

US visitors insurance providers

You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Seven Corners, WorldTrips, Global Underwriters, Travel Insure, GeoBlue, HTH Worldwide and INF insurance.

•  Call: (877)-340-7910
•  Contact
•  Email

Agent Information

Travel medical usa visitor basic & choice.

Best visitor health insurance benefits for up to 3 years

Why Should I buy Visitor's Insurance?

If you’re traveling to the United States, you should be aware medical expenses in the USA are some of the most expensive in the world. That’s why it’s important to consider travel insurance like Travel Medical USA Visitor to protect you if you become sick or hurt on your trip. Because it has scheduled benefits, it is priced affordably even for longer trips, and includes 24/7 multilingual travel assistance services provided by an experienced team who can help you find medical care.

Who can purchase this plan?

Non-United States citizens and non-United States residents who are traveling to the USA can buy Travel Medical USA Visitor. You may buy coverage for yourself, your spouse, your children, and your traveling companions. To be covered, you must be at least 14 days of age and younger than 100 years of age.

Where can I travel?

If you wish to buy this plan, your travel destination must be the USA. The plan provides limited coverage for travel to additional countries for trips that originate in the USA. See the International Travel Coverage benefit for details.

Compare Travel Medical Visitor Insurance Benefits

Essential Coverage

Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Basic

Most Popular

Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice

You select the dollar amount for this limit. It is the limit for each injury or illness (occurrence) that occurs during your period of coverage. We cover injuries and illnesses that occur during your coverage period. Benefits are paid in excess of your deductible up to the medical maximum. Occurrence  is an illness or injury and includes all bodily disorders due to the same or related causes.

Initial treatment must occur within 30 days of the date of injury or onset of illness.

This is the amount you must pay per injury or illness before the plan begins paying.

This is a Cardiac care unit or other unit or area of a Hospital that meets the required standards of the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals for Special Care Units.

Telehealth Consultations or Care includes long-distance or remote (i) health-related services and information, (ii)treatment of injury or illness, or (iii) other live consultations, each of which involves an insured person and a physician or nurse practitioner at different locations using telecommunications technologies including internet, phone, video, audio, and computers. 

Considered a covered medical expenses when requested and approved by the attending Physician.

Private Duty Nursing Services includes: 

• Private duty nursing care only; and
• While Hospital confined; and 
• Ordered by a licensed Physician; and 
• Medically Necessary.  

General nursing care provided by the Hospital is not covered under this benefit.

Limited to routine tests such as complete blood count, urinalysis, and chest x-ray when administered within seven days of Hospital admission.

Only in connection with a Medical Emergency as defined in the plan document. Benefits will be paid for the use of the emergency room and supplies.

This benefit includes medically necessary rental of a non-motorized wheelchair, crutches, or a basic hospital bed for up to 60 days or the duration of the injury or illness, whichever ends first.

Benefits are limited to one Physician’s visit per day.

This means physical therapy, recommended by a Physician as Medically Necessary for the treatment of a specific Injury or Illness. It must be administered by a licensed physical therapist and be intended to improve, adapt or restore functions which have been impaired or permanently lost as a result of a covered Illness or Injury and involve goals an individual can reach in a Reasonable Period of Time.

This covers an illness or injury that begins on an incidental trip in your home country. You earn covered days at home at approximately 5 days per month up to 60 days for every 364 days of purchased coverage. Unused days do not carry over to a subsequent 364-day period. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or an illness or injury that began while you were outside your home country.  Coverage is available if your period of coverage is greater than 30 days.

Many travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions. Seven Corners Travel Medical Visitor USA covers them through the Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions benefit.

An Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Condition is the occurrence of a pre-existing condition that meets these criteria:

• It is sudden, unexpected, and occurs without advanced warning;
• It is a medical emergency;
• It occurs during the period of coverage;
• You obtained treatment within 24 hours of the occurrence;
• You did not have a change in prescription or treatment related to the underlying pre-existing condition within the last 30 days; and
• Your pre-existing condition is not congenital, a previously diagnosed chronic condition with expected episodes or flare-ups, or a deteriorating condition which cannot be controlled and gradually intensifies over time.

Review the plan document for more details.

Coverage ends on the earlier of:

• The condition no longer being considered acute or
• Your discharge from the hospital.

If you are injured as a result of terrorist activity, we will provide medical benefits if the following conditions are met:

• You have no direct or indirect involvement in the terrorist activity.
• The Terrorist Activity is not in a country/location where the U.S. government has issued a Level 3 Terrorism, Level 3 Civil Unrest, or any Level 4 Travel Advisory or the appropriate authorities of your host country or your home country have issued similar warnings, any of which have been in effect within 6 months before your date of arrival and
• You departed the country/location following the date a warning to leave was issued by the U.S. government or the appropriate authorities of your host country or your home country.

The plan can pay for emergency treatment for the relief of pain for sound natural teeth.  Coverage is available if your period of coverage is greater than 30 days.

The plan can pay for emergency treatment to repair or replace sound natural teeth damaged because of an accidental injury caused by external contact with a foreign object. You are not covered if you break a tooth while eating or biting into a foreign object.

If medically necessary, we will pay and arrange to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facilities. The plan pays regardless of whether your evacuation is related to a pre-existing condition.  This benefit must be arranged by Seven Corners Assist. Failure to use Seven Corners Assist may result in a denial of benefits.

We can pay reasonable expenses for embalming, a minimally-necessary container for transportation, shipping costs, and government authorizations to return your remains to your home country if you die while outside your home country. The plan pays regardless of whether your death is related to a pre-existing condition. You cannot use this benefit if you use the Local Cremation or Burial benefit. This benefit must be arranged by Seven Corners Assist. Failure to use Seven Corners Assist may result in a denial of benefits.

This benefit can pay reasonable expenses for the preparation and either your local burial or cremation if you die while outside your home country. The plan pays regardless of whether your death is related to a pre-existing condition. You cannot use this benefit if you use the Return of Mortal Remains benefit. This benefit must be arranged by Seven Corners Assist. Failure to use Seven Corners Assist may result in a denial of benefits .

This benefit pays funds if you die because of an injury caused by an accident that occurred while you were a passenger on a common carrier. A common carrier is a public air conveyance that transports passengers for hire.

The benefit can cover you up to 14 days when you travel to countries other than the United States. It does not cover travel to your home country, and it does not extend after your expiration date. This benefit must be used during your current period of coverage, and the trip must originate in the United States.  Coverage is available if your period of coverage is greater than 30 days.

Frequently asked questions

How this plan works, what documents do i receive after buying travel insurance from seven corners.

Once you complete your purchase, you will immediately receive a receipt, a summary of your benefits, an ID card, and a copy of the plan document.

The plan document is the legal document that explains how your coverage works and describes all benefits and exclusions for the plan. We recommend you read it, so you understand how your plan works. Refer to the plan document for applicable exclusions.

Who can buy a Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor plan?

Non-United States citizens who are traveling to the USA can buy Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor. You may buy coverage for yourself, your spouse, your children, and your traveling companions. To be covered, you must be at least 14 days of age and younger than 100 years of age.

United States citizens, including those with dual citizenship, and Green Card/Permanent Resident cardholders cannot buy this plan for travel to the United States and U.S. territories.

Country Restrictions — We cannot sell to persons who are a resident of Australia, Cuba, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), Gambia, Ghana, Islamic Republic of Iran, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Syrian Arab Republic, United States, and United States Virgin Islands.

If you wish to buy this plan, your travel destination must be the USA.

The plan provides limited coverage for travel to additional countries for trips that originate in the USA. See the International Travel Coverage benefit for details.

We cannot cover trips to Afghanistan, Antarctica, Belarus, Cuba, Haiti, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran, Israel, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Myanmar, Palestinian Territory Occupied, Russian Federation, South Sudan, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, and Yemen.

How long can I be covered by this plan?

You can buy up to 364 days of coverage. If you buy less than 364 days, we will email you an extension notice before coverage ends. There is a $5 fee for each extension. If you purchase Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice, you can extend your coverage up to 1,092 days (3 years).

When does my coverage start?

Your plan's effective date is the start date of your plan, which begins at the latest of the following times:

• 12 a.m. the day after we receive your application and correct payment if you apply online;
• The moment you depart your home country;
• 12 a.m. on the date you request on your application.

All times above refer to United States Eastern Time.

When does my coverage end?

Your coverage ends on your expiration date, which is the earliest of the following times:

• The moment you return to your home country (except for coverage provided by the Incidental Trips to Home Country benefit);
• 11:59 p.m. on the date you reach the maximum period of coverage;
• 11:59 p.m. on the date shown on your ID card;
• 11:59 p.m. on the date that is the end of the period for which you paid premium; or
• The moment you fail to be eligible for the plan.

Does this plan provide primary coverage or secondary coverage?

It provides secondary coverage. All coverages except Common Carrier Accidental Death & Dismemberment are in excess of all other insurance or similar benefit programs and shall apply only when such benefits thereunder are exhausted. This Plan is secondary coverage to any other insurance. Such other insurance or similar benefit programs may include, but are not limited to, membership benefit; workers’ compensation benefits or programs; government programs; group or blanket coverage; prepayment coverage; union, labor, or employee plans; socialized insurance program or program otherwise required by law or statute; automobile insurance; or third-party liability insurance.

Will Seven Corners give me a refund for this plan if I’m not satisfied?

We will refund your payment if we receive your written request for a refund before your effective date of coverage. If your request is received after your effective date, the unused portion of the plan cost may be refunded minus a $35 cancellation fee, if you have not submitted any claims to Seven Corners.

Where can I find what is not covered by this plan?

You can find situations and items not covered by this plan in the exclusions section of the plan document.

Who provides the coverage for this plan?

Your underwriter is Crum & Forster SPC.

This plan includes international travel medical insurance underwritten by Crum & Forster SPC. C&F and Crum & Forster are registered trademarks of United States Fire Insurance Company. The Crum & Forster group of companies is rated A (Excellent) by AM Best 2023.

Seven Corners administers your plan.

Seven Corners will handle your travel medical insurance needs from start to finish. We will process your purchase, provide all documents, and handle any claims. In addition, our own in-house team, Seven Corners Assist, will handle your travel assistance needs, including emergency services such as emergency medical evacuations and repatriations.*

*These types of service are not insurance and are not affiliated with Crum & Forster, SPC. They are provided by Seven Corners Assist.

Medical Benefits and Coverage

How do i find a medical provider when i’m traveling.

Find medical providers using our online tools or contact Seven Corners Assist .

Inside the United States — With the Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor plan, you may seek treatment from any medical facility or provider you wish.

Outside of the United States — Seven Corners has a large directory of providers, and many of them have agreed to bill us direct for treatment they provide. We recommend you contact us for a referral, but you may seek treatment at any facility.

Utilizing the network does not guarantee benefits or that the treating facility will bill Seven Corners direct. We do not guarantee payment to a facility or individual until we determine the expense is covered by the plan.

What is a pre-existing condition?

Pre-existing conditions include any injury or illness, including mental illness or mental or nervous disorder, which meet one or more of the following criteria before your effective date of coverage:

• You were diagnosed;
• You received treatment;
• Treatment was recommended to You;
• There is reasonable medical certainty that the injury or illness existed within the last 36 months, whether or not it previously manifested, was symptomatic, known, diagnosed, treated, or disclosed.

This includes any chronic, subsequent, or recurring complications of an injury or illness which meets the above criteria.

How does Seven Corners cover pre-existing conditions on Travel Medical USA Visitor?

Coverage amounts vary by age and plan. See the schedule of benefits in the plan document for details.

An Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions is the occurrence of a pre-existing condition that meets these criteria:

Coverage ends when the first of these events occurs:

• The condition no longer being acute; or

There is no coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs, or treatments existent or necessary prior to arrival in the USA and before your coverage begins.

There is no coverage for treatment for which you have traveled or conditions for which travel was undertaken after your physician limited or restricted travel.

PPACA – Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Does this plan provide benefits required by ppaca.

This insurance is not subject to and does not provide certain insurance benefits required by the United States’ Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“PPACA”). PPACA requires certain U.S. citizens or U.S. residents to obtain PPACA compliant health insurance, or “minimum essential coverage.” PPACA also requires certain employers to offer PPACA compliant insurance coverage to their employees. Tax penalties may be imposed on U.S. residents or citizens who do not maintain minimum essential coverage, and on certain employers who do not offer PPACA compliant insurance coverage to their employees. In some cases, certain individuals may be deemed to have minimum essential coverage under PPACA even if their insurance coverage does not provide all of the benefits required by PPACA. You should consult your attorney or tax professional to determine whether the policy meets any obligations you may have under PPACA.

• Travel Medical USA Visitor
• Travel Medical USA Visitor – Basic and Choice

Plan Documents

• Travel Medical USA Visitor Basic
• Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice

Limitations, exclusions and disclaimers from Crum & Forster, SPC.

Disclaimer: The above information is a summary of the important features of the plan. It is not a contract of insurance. This plan includes both insurance and non-insurance benefits. The terms and conditions of coverage are set forth in the Plan issued to the policyholder. For a detailed plan description, exclusions, and limitations please view the plan on file with Seven Corners, Inc. The Policy contains a complete description of all of the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the insurance plan as underwritten by Crum & Forster, SPC. The Policy will prevail in the event of any discrepancy between this web page and the Policy.

303 Congressional Blvd.

Carmel, Indiana 46032

Our Markets

• Consumer Insurance
• Government Solutions
• Trip Protection
• Trip Protection Annual Multi-Trip
• Trip Protection USA
• Travel Medical
• Cruise Insurance
• Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
• Partnerships
• 24 Hour Urgent Travel Assistance
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Developer Portal
• System Status

[email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Seven Corners Inc. All rights reserved.

Privacy   |   Cookies   |   Terms of Use   |   Security

• Best Extended Auto Warranty
• Best Used Car Warranty
• Best Car Warranty Companies
• CarShield Reviews
• Best Auto Loan Rates
• Average Auto Loan Interest Rates
• Best Auto Refinance Rates
• Bad Credit Auto Loans
• Best Auto Shipping Companies
• How To Ship a Car
• Car Shipping Cost Calculator
• Montway Auto Transport Reviews
• Best Car Buying Apps
• Best Websites To Sell Your Car Online
• CarMax Review
• Carvana Reviews
• Best LLC Service
• Best Registered Agent Service
• Best Trademark Service
• Best Online Legal Services
• Best CRMs for Small Business
• Best CRM Software
• Best CRM for Real Estate
• Best Marketing CRM
• Best CRM for Sales
• Best Free Time Tracking Apps
• Best HR Software
• Best Payroll Services
• Best HR Outsourcing Services
• Best HRIS Software
• Best Project Management Software
• Best Construction Project Management Software
• Best Task Management Software
• Free Project Management Software
• Best SEO Services (2024 Rankings)
• Best Mass Texting Services 2024
• Best SEO Software 2024
• Best Email Marketing Software 2024
• Best Personal Loans
• Best Fast Personal Loans
• Best Debt Consolidation Loans
• Best Loans for Bad Credit
• Best Personal Loans for Fair Credit
• HOME EQUITY
• Best Home Equity Loan Rates
• Best Home Equity Loans
• Best Checking Accounts
• Best Free Checking Accounts
• Best Online Checking Accounts
• Best Online Banks
• Bank Account Bonuses
• Best High-Yield Savings Accounts
• Best Savings Accounts
• Average Savings Account Interest Rate
• Money Market Accounts
• Best CD Rates
• Best 3-Month CD Rates
• Best 6-Month CD Rates
• Best 1-Year CD Rates
• Best 5-Year CD Rates
• Best Jumbo CD Rates
• Best Hearing Aids
• Best OTC Hearing Aids
• Most Affordable Hearing Aids
• Eargo Hearing Aids Review
• Best Medical Alert Systems
• Best Medical Alert Watches
• Best Medical Alert Necklaces
• Are Medical Alert Systems Covered by Insurance?
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Online Therapy Platforms That Take Insurance
• Best Online Psychiatrist Platforms
• BetterHelp Review
• Best Mattress
• Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
• Best Mattress for Back Pain
• Best Adjustable Beds
• Best Home Warranty Companies
• American Home Shield Review
• First American Home Warranty Review
• Best Home Appliance Insurance
• Best Moving Companies
• Best Interstate Moving Companies
• Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
• Cheap Moving Companies
• Best Window Replacement Companies
• Best Gutter Guards
• Gutter Installation Costs
• Best Window Brands
• Best Solar Companies
• Best Solar Panels
• How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
• Solar Calculator
• Best Car Insurance Companies
• Cheapest Car Insurance Companies (June 2024)
• Best Car Insurance for New Drivers
• Cheap Same Day Car Insurance
• Best Pet Insurance
• Pet Insurance Cost
• Cheapest Pet Insurance
• Pet Wellness Plans
• Best Life Insurance
• Best Term Life Insurance
• Best Whole Life Insurance
• Term vs. Whole Life Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance Companies
• Best Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Best Renters Insurance Companies
• Best Motorcycle Insurance

Partner content:  This content was created by a business partner of Dow Jones, independent of the MarketWatch newsroom. Links in this article may result in us earning a commission.  Learn More

Best Medical Insurance for Visitors to the U.S. (2024)

U.S. visitors can get travel medical insurance for as low as $89 per trip.

with our comparison partner, Squaremouth

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over seven years. A journalist by trade, her experience includes communications and marketing management in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors.

Seven Corners, WorldTrips, IMG and Trawick offer the best health insurance plans for visitors to the U.S.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with details on travel health insurance plans from these providers, including example quotes, information on how to use your visitor health insurance and more.

Do Visitors Need U.S. Health Insurance?

While health insurance is not always mandatory when traveling to the U.S., regulations may vary depending on the circumstances around your visit and your visa needs. In addition, health plans from different countries are generally not accepted in the U.S., which means you could pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket for treatment in an emergency without a valid plan.

Note that many foreign visitors traveling to the U.S. do not need a visa to enter the country for less than 90 days. However, some visa requirements for long-term visitors require health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. Regardless of the requirements for your travels, it’s worth considering a travel medical insurance plan based on the high cost of U.S. healthcare. According to GoodRx, an emergency room visit can cost upwards of $2,400 to $2,600 without insurance in the U.S.

Health Insurance Requirements for People Visiting the U.S.

While tourists do not technically need a travel medical insurance plan to obtain a visa, other types of visitors do. For instance, if you’re a student planning to study abroad in a U.S.-based college or university using an F-1 or J-1 visa, you’ll likely need some sort of health insurance or a comparable equivalent. Many universities that accept students on visas require medical coverage that complies with the school’s outlined health insurance requirements.

Note that health insurance requirements for visitors to the U.S. largely depend on the type of visa you need to enter the country. Regardless of whether it’s required, we recommend medical insurance based on the high costs of U.S. healthcare services.

Best Travel Health Insurance for Visitors to the U.S.

Our team has spent extensive time researching the best travel medical insurance plans for visitors to the U.S., considering factors such as availability, coverage, customer support and provider reputation.

• Seven Corners Travel Medical Basic: Our pick for group travelers
• WorldTrips Atlas America : Our pick for high coverage limits
• IMG Patriot Lite : Our pick for budget coverage
• IMG Patriot America Plus : Our pick for continuous coverage
• Trawick Safe Travels USA Comprehensive : Our pick for wellness coverage

Seven Corners

Why We Picked It

Seven Corners’ Travel Medical Basic plan is our pick for group travelers. This plan is specifically designed for groups of up to 10 non-U.S. residents and non-U.S. citizens aged 14 days or older, making it ideal for families traveling together . However, it is also available for solo travelers. You can extend coverage for up to a year, with protection both in the U.S. and worldwide.

Pros and Cons

Medical coverage details.

The Travel Medical Basic plan offers extensive coverage with benefit maximums of up to $1 million and various deductible options, making it easy to customize a plan to suit your needs. Medical coverage offered through this plan includes the following:

• General medical
• Emergency dental
• Emergency services and assistance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
• Optional adventure activity coverage

Learn more :  Seven Corners Travel Insurance Review

WorldTrips’ Atlas America plan is our pick for high coverage limits. This plan is designed for U.S. tourists, temporary workers, business visitors and international students studying abroad , providing accessible health coverage to a variety of travelers. It provides overall coverage maximums of up to $2 million, with up to $1 million for emergency medical evacuation coverage.

The Atlas America plan offers up to $2 million in overall coverage and seven different deductible options, providing sound medical coverage along with supplemental travel benefits. Medical coverages include services that fall under the following categories:

• Emergency dental and vision

Learn more: WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review

We chose IMG’s Patriot Lite plan as our pick for budget coverage — the company quoted us less for this plan than its competitors on our list. You can buy this plan as an individual or group, making it ideal for family members traveling to the U.S. together. Like other insurance companies in this review, IMG is partnered with UnitedHealthcare, meaning policyholders have access to a domestic network of over 1.4 million physicians for medical care.

Policyholders can choose coverage with a maximum of up to $1 million with the Patriot Lite plan, with deductibles ranging from $0 to $2,500. Coverages with the Patriot Lite plan include the following:

Learn more : IMG Travel Insurance Review

IMG’s Patriot America Plus plan also made our list for providing short-term insurance for business and leisurely travelers. We named it our pick for continuous coverage, as it provides up to 24 months of renewable, consecutive coverage. Other benefits include access to multilingual customer service representatives and a maximum limit of up to $1 million. Unlike IMG’s Patriot Lite plan, Patriot America Plus covers COVID-19 treatments.

As with IMG’s Patriot Lite plan, coverage with a maximum of up to $1 million is available, with your choice of deductible from $0 to $2,500. Coverages with the Patriot America Plus plan include the following:

Trawick International

We named Trawick’s Safe Travels USA Comprehensive plan our pick for wellness coverage, as it affords policyholders a general wellness visit with a U.S. doctor during their travels for up to $125. As is standard across most plans in our review, Trawick’s Safe Travels plan offers up to $1 million in medical expense coverage. It also offers up to $2 million in emergency medical evacuation coverage and eight deductible options up to $5,000.</p

The Safe Travels USA Comprehensive plan covers up to $1 million in medical benefits after you pay your deductible. Benefits provided with each plan include:

• Optional sports activity coverage (excludes extreme sports)

Read more : Trawick International Travel Insurance Review

Compare Travel Medical Insurance Plans for U.S. Tourists

See the table below for a direct comparison of costs, deductibles and more between travel medical insurance plans for U.S. visitors.

We based plan costs on quotes we obtained for a 30-year-old Australian citizen traveling to the U.S. for 30 days. Each plan includes a medical maximum of $500,000 with a $250 deductible. Note that your actual cost will depend on factors such as your age, number of travelers, chosen deductible and more.

Types of Health Insurance for U.S. Visitors

Travelers have options when it comes to health insurance for U.S. visitors. For one, you could choose an international travel medical insurance plan, which provides coverage for emergency medical expenses or evacuation abroad. A U.S. short-term health insurance plan is also an option. Some health insurance companies, such as UnitedHealthcare, work with providers to allow policyholders to use the company’s preferred provider organization (PPO) network.

If you’re wondering whether your domestic health insurance policy will cover you in the U.S., we encourage you to contact your insurance provider for more details. You may need to purchase valid coverage specifically for your U.S. trip if you’re concerned about or foresee needing medical care abroad.

Fixed Medical Insurance

Fixed medical insurance or fixed indemnity insurance pays a predetermined amount of money for specific medical procedures and services. This type of medical insurance plan is limited — no matter what your total bill amounts to, it will not cover more than the agreed-upon amount. Fixed medical insurance plans are usually cheaper than comprehensive policies, which we cover in the next section.

Comprehensive Medical Insurance

Comprehensive medical insurance covers doctor’s visits, hospital care, prescription drugs and more without setting limits on certain services. Note that these plans typically have coverage maximums, deductibles and copays, so you will have to pay a certain amount before your policy covers any medical expenses. 

Comprehensive coverage does not have benefit limits based on the type of medical service like fixed medical does, but it will cost you more overall. However, because health care in the U.S. is expensive, you may find comprehensive plans more beneficial in the long run despite being pricier than a fixed plan.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Health Insurance

Short-term and long-term health insurance plans provide coverage that lasts for a specific period. You can consider travel medical insurance plans short-term policies for U.S. visitors, as they can cover medical expenses incurred during a period lasting less than a year. 

If you plan on staying in the U.S. for longer than a year, you may be eligible to purchase a health insurance plan through a domestic provider, depending on your visa. For example, if you have a J-1 or F-1 visa, you may be eligible for a university-sponsored or private health insurance plan. We encourage you to check with the U.S. Department of State when you receive your visa for more on what long-term health insurance options are available to you.

What Does Travel Insurance in the U.S. Cover?

Travel insurance in the U.S. provides a variety of coverages for unexpected events that can affect your travel plans both before and during your trip. Specifics will vary depending on your choice of policy but will likely include some or all of the following coverages:

Created with Sketch Beta. Trip cancellation: If you must cancel your trip for a covered reason, travel insurance can help you recover non-refundable costs such as hotel reservations, airline tickets and more.

Created with Sketch Beta. Trip interruption: If you need to cut your vacation short for a covered reason, travel insurance plans can compensate you for expenses you didn’t use during your trip.

Created with Sketch Beta. Trip and baggage delays: A travel insurance policy can help cover costs you incur if your trip or baggage gets delayed for a covered reason. Most coverage also includes lost or stolen baggage.

Created with Sketch Beta. Emergency medical: Emergency medical coverage can reimburse the cost of necessary treatments if you experience a medical emergency abroad up to a maximum amount.

Created with Sketch Beta. Emergency evacuation and transport: If you need transportation to a medical facility in the U.S. during a medical emergency, this coverage will provide an expense limit for the services. This benefit can also cover emergency evacuations if a natural disaster or political conflict occurs and affects your travels.

How Much Does Travel Health Insurance for U.S. Visitors Cost?

Our research found that the cost of travel insurance for U.S. visitors can range from $96 to $115 . This range is based on quotes gathered for a 30-year-old Australian citizen traveling to the U.S. for 30 days. Each plan we obtained a quote for included a medical maximum of $500,000 with a $250 deductible.

For cost data specific to your travel needs, we encourage you to gather quotes from the providers in this review. The quotes you receive will depend on factors such as your age, plan limits, chosen deductible, number of travelers and more.

How To Use Visitor Health Insurance

If you’ve purchased a visitor medical insurance plan for your stay in the U.S., it’s important you understand how to use it. Healthcare facilities in the U.S., such as doctor’s offices, urgent care locations and emergency rooms, often require you to bring an insurance card with you. This card includes essential information associated with your policy that helps the facility file a claim with your insurance provider. If you have one through your visitor health insurance plan, it is best to have it on hand when receiving medical treatment.

Your health insurance plan may require pre-approval before you receive treatment in non-emergent cases. Your insurance company may request to verify a procedure or medicine is necessary before agreeing to cover it. Be sure to check your policy to find out what the restrictions are.

Many visitor health insurance plans also cover prescription medications. If you’ve been prescribed medicine through a U.S. doctor during a medical visit, a pharmacy may choose to verify your prescription before filling it. This means the pharmacy will contact your healthcare provider with any questions about the prescription being correct. Verification could delay when you receive your medication, but likely won’t take longer than three to10 business days.

Finding Doctors and Hospitals as a Visitor

Most insurers provide online tools that help you find in-network healthcare providers and facilities covered by your insurance policy. Note that you may pay more if you choose to receive care through a doctor or facility that is not considered in-network. Out-of-network providers do not contract with your health insurance plan to provide agreed-upon rates. Unless you have a plan that lets you pick any provider you’d like, you will need to find a provider or facility working with your insurance.

If you want to verify the benefits offered by your insurance plan, contact your insurance provider directly or consult any documentation provided at the time of purchase. Healthcare providers may also take steps to verify your coverage, as it ensures the facility receives payment and lessens the chance of a denied insurance claim. 

The cost of medical treatment depends entirely on the type of insurance plan you have. If you’ve purchased a travel medical insurance plan, your provider will cover emergency medical expenses up to a maximum amount. Once you’ve hit that limit, you will have to pay the rest of your bill. If you have a plan with a deductible or co-pay, you must pay that amount before your insurer will cover your expenses.

Paying Medical Bills Without Insurance

If you opt out of medical coverage when visiting the U.S. and end up needing medical care, you will have to cover the entire bill out of pocket. However, you have several options regarding payment. You can contact the debt collector in charge of your bill and work to negotiate the cost of your bill down . You can also set up a payment plan that works with your income and what you can afford. 

While these payment options can be helpful, they do not negate the high U.S. healthcare costs, and can still leave you with a substantial bill after a medical crisis.

According to a study by the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker , health expenditures per person in the U.S. in 2022 were over $4,000 more than any other high-income nation. For this reason, we recommend some form of medical coverage to help cover potential emergency expenses when visiting the U.S.

Filing a Claim with Visitor Health Insurance

Filing a claim through a visitor insurance plan or travel medical insurance policy will vary based on your provider. Note that providing proper documentation will help the claims process go smoothly, so it is important to keep track of hospital invoices and other billing forms.

If you have a domestic health insurance policy, the healthcare facility that provided your treatment will file your claim. You’ll receive a bill once your insurance provider processes the claim. On the other hand, travel medical insurance may require you to submit documents proving your claims for emergency medical treatment. Once your claim has been approved, your travel insurance company will reimburse your medical bills.

Where Can You Buy Visitors Insurance?

You can buy visitors’ insurance directly from travel insurance companies, international health insurance companies, university-approved providers and domestic providers, depending on the type of visa required during your stay. If you’re on a tourist visa, you can purchase travel medical insurance covering emergency medical services and transport, if needed, to a healthcare facility. Most travel insurance providers also offer travel healthcare plans that can last up to a year if you are planning multiple trips.

If you’re on a J-1 or F-1 visa and enrolling in a schooling program, contact your university to see if you’re eligible for a sponsored or private health insurance plan. If you need clarification on the available coverage or plan to stay in the U.S. for longer than a year, contact the U.S. Department of State for more information.

Do U.S. Visitors Need Health Care Coverage?

Healthcare in the U.S. is expensive. While medical insurance isn’t required for some visitors — such as tourists on a B-2 visa — it’s still worth considering if you’re concerned about an unexpected medical emergency abroad. We encourage you to extensively research your visa type and the coverage available to you before settling on a plan. Understanding the benefits and exclusions of a healthcare coverage plan will ensure there are no surprises if you need medical care during your U.S. trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visitor Health Insurance

How much is visitor health insurance in the u.s..

Visitor health insurance costs in the U.S. depend on factors unique to your travel needs. After gathering quotes from the providers in our review, we found that visitor health insurance can range from $89 to $115 . This range is based on a 30-year-old Australian citizen traveling to the U.S. for 30 days, opting for a plan with a medical maximum of $500,000 and a $250 deductible. Your actual costs will vary.

How much does travel insurance cost for trips to the U.S

Our research team found the average cost of travel insurance ranges from $35 to $400, with the average being $221 for a standard policy. Your costs will vary depending on your chosen plan, provider, length of travels, number of travelers and more.

Can foreign visitors get insurance while in the U.S.?

Yes, foreigners can get insurance while in the U.S. Various insurance options are available to travelers depending on their length of stay and visa type. It’s best to research what’s available to you based on your visa requirements before purchasing a plan.

Is it hard to get travel insurance for U.S.-based trips?

No, it’s not hard to get travel insurance for travel to the U.S. Providers such as Seven Corners, WorldTrips, IMG, Trawick and more provide plans for non-U.S. citizens seeking trip and medical coverage while abroad.

Methodology: Our System for Rating Travel Insurance Companies

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
• A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
• A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
• Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
• Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
• Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
• Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

More Travel Insurance Guides

• Best covid travel insurance companies
• Best cruise insurance plans
• Best travel insurance companies
• Cheapest travel insurance
• Best group travel insurance companies
• Best senior travel insurance
• Best travel insurance for families
• Best student travel insurance plans
• Travel insurance for parents visiting USA
• Best travel medical insurance plans
• How much does travel insurance cost?

If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at  editors@marketwatchguides. com .

Related Articles

Search When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select.

Choose the plan that meets your needs and spend more time enjoying your international experience not worrying about your insurance coverage.

• Customer Stories
• Resume Quote / Application

What type of coverage do you need?

• Vacation / Holiday
• Visitor / Immigrant
• Student / Scholar
• Employer / Business Traveler
• Expat / Global Citizen
• Mission / Social Good
• Marine Captain / Crew
• Flights / Airfare
• Cruises / Excursions

Travel Medical Insurance

Temporary coverage for accidents, sicknesses, & emergency evacuations when visiting or traveling outside of your home country.

Popular Plans

International health insurance.

Annually renewable international private medical insurance coverage for expats and global citizens living or working internationally.

Travel Insurance

Coverage designed to protect you from financial losses should your trip be delayed, interrupted, or cancelled.

Individual & Family Services

Non-insurance services for worldwide emergency evacuation, field rescue, medical transport, and 24/7/365 travel assistance.

Enterprise Services

Meet your duty of care obligations with confidence, knowing your travelers are safe, healthy, and connected wherever they may be in the world.

What type of organization do you represent?

• Corporations
• Insurance Companies
• Educational Institutions
• Mission Organizations
• Maritime Industries
• Government Agencies
• Non-Profit Organizations

Medical & Travel Assistance

Global workers' compensation case management, security assistance services, insurance administrative services, visitor insurance plans, visitor & immigrant health insurance options.

V isitor Insurance most commonly refers to international travel medical insurance plans designed for international travelers visiting the United States of America. These plans are perfect for non-U.S. citizens who have domestic health insurance, but aren’t covered outside of their home country.

Specifically, in the United States, healthcare costs are much higher than the rest of the world, and an unexpected illness could result in you owing thousands of dollars. IMG’s visitor insurance plans provide coverage for new medical expenses, multilingual customer service experts, hands-on healthcare coordinators available 24/7 and online resources to make traveling internationally less stressful.

Visitor Insurance plans are excellent for visiting family members or friends, vacationing, taking a short business trip, or any reason that you may find yourself in the U.S. To compare IMG's visitor insurance plans, check out our article, How to Choose the Best Visitor Insurance Plan for You .

Popular Plans For Visitors & Immigrants

Patriot America Plus

Temporary health insurance for non-U.S. residents traveling to the USA

• COVID-19 coverage for travelers to the U.S.
• Coverage for inside the U.S.
• Short-term travel medical coverage
• Made for individuals, groups, and their dependents
• Coverage for Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions*
• Freedom to seek treatment with hospital or doctor of your choice

Summary of Benefits

Visitors Protect Insurance

Temporary health insurance for individuals, families

• Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
• Coverages for inside the U.S., Canada and Mexico
• Coverage for individuals, and their dependents
• Subject to deductible and coinsurance
• Limit: $300 (Unexpected pain or treatment due to an accident)
• Treatment at a hospital due to an
• Additional treatment for the same injury rendered by a dental provider will be paid at 100%

Patriot Platinum Travel Medical Insurance

Temporary first-class health insurance for individuals, families, and groups

• Coverages for inside and outside the U.S. ( Patriot America Platinum / Patriot International Platinum )
• Coverage for individuals, groups, and their dependents
• Higher Limits & More Coverage than Patriot Lite Travel or Patriot Plus

Additional Plans For Visitors & Immigrants

Patriot Lite Travel Medical Insurance

Temporary health insurance for individuals, families, and groups when traveling outside of your home country.

Visitors Care

Temporary fixed coverage health insurance for non-U.S. residents when traveling outside of your home country.

Global Medical Insurance

A long-term (1+ year), annually renewable, worldwide medical insurance program for individuals and families.

Patriot Multi-Trip Travel Medical Insurance

Annual multi-trip travel medical insurance for individuals, families and groups.

UnitedHealthcare Dental Plans

Dental insurance options with coverage for routine preventive dental care for individuals and families visiting the U.S. Underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company.

UnitedHealthcare Vision Plans

Vision insurance with coverage for routine preventive vision care for individuals and families visiting the U.S. Underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company.

Give us a call

Have any questions we’re here to help you, 866-263-0669, is visitor insurance required in the u.s..

V isitor insurance is not required to travel to the U.S. on a B-2 visa. However, healthcare costs in the U.S. are often higher than those in other countries, so not having the proper coverage could leave you to pay thousands of dollars for any necessary medical care.

Purchasing visitor insurance is also a very simple process as no medical exam or medical history review is necessary to get coverage. These plans are designed to protect you from unexpected illnesses or injuries that occur while you are traveling, thus your past health history is not needed.

For answers to any other visitor insurance questions, check out our Visitor Insurance FAQs .

How Much Does Visitors Insurance Cost? Coverage starts at a few dollars per day and increases depending on age and coverage options

IMG’s most popular visitor insurance plan, Patriot America Plus , offers excellent coverage at a competitive price. There are also other product tiers that vary in price depending on your budget and level of benefits. Patriot Platinum Insurance provides the highest level of coverage, while Visitors Care provides a lower priced option with limited benefits. Or you can choose your own visitor insurance plan.

Factors that Determine Cost The cost of a visitor health insurance plan varies based on many factors, including:

Age of traveler.

Old and young visitors alike can find a visitor insurance plan that fits their needs. While premiums become more expensive for older travelers due to increasing risks of health problems, there are still many varying price levels available to fit in your budget.

Area of Coverage

Visiting the United States will result in a higher premium than if traveling to another part of the world due to the high costs of medical care in the country.

View the breakdown of daily and monthly rates in the Patriot America Plus brochure  to get a better idea of how much you can expect to spend for coverage during your trip. For any trip longer than a year, you may also want to explore our international health insurance options .

Coverage Level

Higher maximum limits and lower deductibles will increase your plan costs. Consider how much you could afford in addition to your deductible if something unexpected were to happen while you’re away when choosing the right options for you.

What Does Visitor Health Insurance Cover? Depending on the visitor insurance plan purchased, some of the key benefits provided can include:

Emergency evacuation.

In the event of an emergency medical evacuation, coverage provides evacuation to the nearest qualified medical facility and expenses for reasonable transportation resulting from the evacuation.  

Medical Expenses

Coverage for medically necessary expenses resulting from new or unexpected injuries or illnesses including local ambulance, intensive care, emergency room, and more, if needed.

Return of Mortal Remains

Should a covered illness or injury unfortunately result in death, this benefit provides coverage for repatriation of bodily remains or ashes to your home country; or for the preparation, local burial or cremation of your mortal remains, at the place of death.

Pre-Existing Condition Coverage (Varies by Plan)

Visitors Protect provides pre-existing condition coverage for gradually developing conditions or those becoming worse over time. Patriot America Plus and Patriot America Platinum provide coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions in the event of a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a pre-existing condition.

Recent Blog Articles

Where can you travel internationally right now.

There are many international destinations that you can currently visit, but here are eight popular spots to consider for your next leisure getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Visitors Protect plan offers coverage for pre-existing conditions that gradually develop or worsen over time (such as diabetes or high blood pressure). This plan is designed specifically for individuals and families traveling from their home country to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For more information, view the full Visitors Protect benefits table .

Other IMG international travel medical plans may cover “Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions.” This is different than a more traditional definition of “Pre-Existing Conditions.” Patriot America Plus, Patriot America Platinum, Patriot International, and Visitors Care plans cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions, but they are only covered prior to age 70 and are subject to the language in the insurance plan. Here is our definition of what would be considered an acute onset of a pre-existing condition (according to a sample insurance plan from October 2022):

A sudden and Unexpected outbreak or reoccurrence that is of short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires urgent medical care. A Pre-existing Condition that is chronic or congenital, or that gradually becomes worse over time is not an Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition. An Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition does not include any condition for which, as of the Effective date, the Insured Person (i) knew or reasonably foresaw he/she would receive, (ii) knew or reasonably foresaw he/she should receive, (iii) had scheduled, or (iv) were told that he/she must or should receive, any medical care, drugs or Treatment.

Yes, the insured does not have to be the one that fills out the application. You can purchase a travel medical plan for your parents, friends, or relatives as long as you have the necessary information.

It is best to check all of your existing coverages or insurance policies before traveling abroad so that you're aware of how you're covered and where you have gaps in your existing coverage.

IMG’s international travel medical products are not a substitute for minimum essential coverage that you may need to have under PPACA. If you are a U.S. citizen, national or legal resident alien in the U.S., you will need to maintain minimum essential coverage unless you are exempt. Exemptions include:

• Individuals not residing in the U.S.
• Non-U.S. citizens who are “non-resident aliens” (for U.S. income tax purposes).  See Am I a Resident or Non-Resident Alien? 
• Individuals with a coverage gap of less than 3 months
• Individuals who cannot afford coverage (i.e. required contribution exceeds 8% of household income)
• Individuals with a religious conscience exemption (applies only to certain faiths)
• Members of a health care sharing ministry
• Incarcerated individuals
• Individuals with income below the tax filing threshold; and
• Members of Indian tribes

You will not need PPACA coverage for short-term travel to the U.S., unless you are considered an “alien lawfully present” in the U.S. See I am a Non-U.S. citizen covered under a Global Medical Insurance Plan .

In general, PPACA does not govern short-term limited duration insurance, like IMG’s short-term travel medical insurance programs .

However please understand that under PPACA, as of January 1, 2014, extensions of short-term coverage will be limited to less than 12 months to meet the definition of a short-term limited duration plan.

The "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act," commonly known as PPACA, was first introduced as a measure to deal with rising healthcare costs and numbers of uninsured.

The heart of PPACA consists of three provisions: guaranteed issue (insurers must offer coverage regardless of the applicant's health status or pre-existing conditions), community rating (insurers must offer policies within a given territory at the same price regardless of health status, age, gender, or other factors), and an individual mandate. The individual mandate assures that everyone has a minimum amount of coverage: those above a certain annual income are required to purchase coverage or incur a tax penalty; those who cannot afford it will have their coverage paid for by the government.

As PPACA continues to be implemented and challenged throughout the country, understanding the issues and implications for the international insurance industry and your business becomes all the more important.

Insurance prices are regulated by the government - you won't find a better price on IMG insurance plans anywhere else.  

Visitors should plan to get insurance after they plan their trip and receive their visa, but before they arrive in the U.S. The effective dates for coverage should match their visa.

If you were to suffer an injury or get sick while visiting the United States, you might be surprised by the cost of medical care. You may also be surprised by the limited assistance your domestic insurance provider can provide while you're visiting. Visitor insurance coverage in the U.S. helps to ensure that you don't incur any unforeseen expenses, receive excellent care, and get home quickly and safely if anything were to happen during your visit. 

If you are applying for coverage under the Patriot series of plans, IMG will process your application and send your ID card and other documents within one business day. If you are applying for coverage under the Global or Group series, IMG will process your application within three to four business days following the receipt of all required information, and your materials will be forwarded the same day coverage is approved. Every attempt will be made to process your application timely. The specific time frame depends largely on the type of coverage for which you are applying. 

This is not an offer to enter into an insurance contract. This is only a summary and shall not bind the company or require the company to offer or write any insurance at any particular rate or to any particular group or individual. The information on this page does and will not affect, modify or supersede in any way the policy, certificate of insurance and governing policy documents (together the "Insurance Contract"). The actual rates and benefits are governed by the Insurance Contract and nothing else. Benefits are subject to exclusions and limitations.

Need extra protection and coverage? Explore our travel insurance options.

Global Resources. Local Care.

Languages spoken in-house, countries where members are served, insurance plans to fit your needs, employees & growing, doctors & hospitals in our global database, request information, to request more information, please fill out the form below. after you submit the form, we will have an img representative contact you., contact information, company information, how can we help.

Thank you for your submission! A representative will be with you shortly.

Select your language, headquarters, send a message.

If you need to send personal information such as medical records, payment information, etc., please use our Secure Message Center .

Thank you for your message! We'll be in touch shortly.

Everything you need to know about visitor health insurance

Are you planning a trip to the USA and wondering what to do in case of a medical emergency? A trip overseas can be stressful, especially when you do not understand how to maneuver the other country’s medical system and the insurance you would need to purchase to cover the costs.

In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about visitor health insurance when visiting the United States and how to find the best visitor health insurance in USA .

What Is VISITOR HEALTH INSURANCE?

Visitor health insurance Is a type of travel health insurance for international visitors and residents visiting the United States. A visitor health insurance will protect a policyholder’s medical and travel costs for the duration of their stay in the United States starting from the effective date of the policy.

Tourists and people traveling on a few other select visas will benefit from health insurance for visitors and access good quality healthcare and travel benefits for unexpected medical emergencies in the United States.

WHY DO I NEED VISITOR HEALTH INSURANCE?

Millions of tourists visit the US annually to see the vast scenic expanse and groundbreaking technological advances. With this comes a greater risk of falling sick or experiencing an injury. If you’re visiting the USA, health insurance for visitors is highly recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Here are some reasons we recommend visitor health insurance when you visit the USA.

Unexpected illness

Despite basic precautions, succumbing to an unexpected illness during your trip is possible. These are the times when visitor medical insurance can be beneficial. It will cover expenses incurred due to an unexpected illness or injury.

No coverage

Local medical insurance will cover medical expenses within your country but may not protect you during your overseas travel. Visitor medical insurance is made specifically for people visiting the United States or other countries.

Exorbitant Healthcare

It is a known fact that the United States has one of the highest healthcare costs in the world. You can save yourself from paying exorbitant fees with travel medical insurance.

Benefit from Visitor Health Insurance

Depending on your plan and other variables, such as your age, here are some benefits that may be included in your fixed and comprehensive plans.

Medical Benefits

• Policy maximum from $10,000 up to $8,000,000.
• Hospital room and board, including medical services
• Intensive Care Unit
• Ambulance charges

Travel Benefits

Emergency Medical Evacuation

• Repatriation of remains
• Local Burial or Cremation
• Loss of checked luggage
• Bedside Visits
• Return of Minor Children
• Trip Interruption
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment

What Does Visitor Health Insurance for USA Visitors Cover?

Most plans will cover basic hospital and doctor visit expenses up to the permissible limit in the policy. Based on your visitor medical insurance, here are some benefits that could be covered in your plan.

Coverage for Medical Expenses

Medical Treatment

Covers expenses related to unexpected illness, injury, or accident.

Evacuate you to the nearest airport that is closest to the medical facility for treatment.

Accidental Death or Dismemberment

Transport your remains back to the home country or towards burial or cremation in the place of death.

Coverage for Travel Expenses

Loss of Checked Luggage

The insurance will cover up to a maximum limit of your loss of checked luggage.

Trip Interruptions

The insurance will cover in the event you have to interrupt your journey and return to your home country.

What are the types of coverage you can buy?

One of the biggest reasons to choose a visitor medical insurance is the lack of medical coverage during overseas trips by a local health insurance plan. The risks involved during an international trip to the USA are unpredictable.

There are two types of coverage in visitor medical insurance plans. These are fixed and comprehensive coverage plans.

Fixed Coverage

As the name suggests, fixed coverage plans have limited coverage, which makes it a very affordable option for travelers visiting the United States. That said, the biggest limitation of this type of coverage is you become responsible for expenses that exceed the coverage limits. Let’s look at some of the benefits of fixed coverage —

• Essential protection, ideal for low-risk travelers
• Low premium that makes it easy on your pocket
• Fixed coverage amount to offer a basic level of protection

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage plans have higher coverage compared to fixed coverage plans. Most comprehensive plans are higher in cost than fixed health insurance plans. Here are some options when it comes to comprehensive coverage plans on VisitorPLANS, such as —

• Atlas America
• Patriot America Plus
• Safe Travels USA Comprehensive
• Visitors Protect

Please check with your agent to determine the right plan for you based on factors such as age, length of stay, place of origin and destination, health risk, etc.

If you’re visiting the US from another country, ensure you purchase travel medical insurance. VisitorPLANS is one of the leading websites in the United States with multiple coverage options for your need.

Check out VisitorPLANS for more information.

Quick Inquiry

Recent Posts

• How to Apply for a Schengen Visa Insurance January 17, 2024
• Celebrate Christmas With Visitor Health Insurance December 27, 2023
• How To Choose The Best Tourist Health Insurance December 18, 2023
• Patriot America Plus Insurance: Benefits, Coverage, & Eligibility November 27, 2023
• Navigating Travel Medical Insurance for Your India-Canada Journey – Choose the Right Plan October 30, 2023
• Expatriate Insurance
• Medical Insurance
• Students Insurance
• Trip Insurance
• Uncategorized
• Visitor Insurance
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023
• February 2023
• January 2023
• September 2018
• January 2018
• December 2017
• September 2017
• January 2017
• August 2016

Sign up for free travel guide and special offers

We promise to keep it to ourselves, we are happy to help you, get in touch at 1-510-353-1180, connect with us.

1 (800) 605-2282

• Member Portal (Travel Medical)
• CBP Portal (Trip Protection)

+1 (800) 605-2282 Outside US: +1 (317) 262-2132

[email protected]

Send Us A Message

• There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.
• U.S. Tourist Visa Health Insurance
• U.S. Visitor Medical Insurance

A tourism and visit visa, also known as a B-2 visa, is a United States visitor visa for nonimmigrants wishing to enter the U.S. for tourism or leisure purposes. This B-2 visa does not apply to individuals entering the U.S. for work, study, paid performances, or permanent residence.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A B-1 AND B-2 VISA?  B-1 and B-2 visas are both classified as nonimmigrant visitor visas for non-U.S. citizens who wish to enter the U.S. temporarily. However, the B-1 visa applies to individuals entering the country for business purposes (i.e. to consult with associates or attend a conference) while the B-2 visa applies to tourist or recreational visits.

Who Needs a U.S. Tourist Visa?

Individuals traveling to the United States for the following reasons will need to apply for a B-2 “tourism and visit” visa:

• Holiday or vacation
• Visit with friends or family
• Musical, sporting event, social event, or contest (B-2 visa only applies to participants in these events if they are not being paid for their participation)
• Enrollment in a course of study which does not count for credit toward a degree (e.g. week-long yoga class)

Are There Any Tourist Visa Exceptions?

Yes – the U.S. Department of State notes that citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not typically need a visa for tourism and visits.

You can also bypass the visa process if you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows non-U.S. citizens who meet specific requirements to travel to the U.S. for approved business or tourism purposes – without first obtaining a visa.

The Visa Waiver program is only available to individuals of an  approved VWP country  who are traveling for 90 days or less and have authorization under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

To learn more about eligibility and enrollment, visit our  “Understanding the U.S. Visa Waiver Program”   page.

How Do I Apply for a Tourist Visa?

Before you apply for your visa, it’s important to understand that the application steps may vary slightly by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. To see specific instructions for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate nearest to you, visit  USEmbassy.gov  and find the country in which you will apply.

For a general overview of the tourist visa application process, note the following steps: 

1. Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160

The  Form DS-160  will require you to upload a recent color photo that meets the  photograph requirements found here . Once you have filled out and submitted your form, you’ll need to print the confirmation page to bring with you to your visa interview.

2. Schedule an Appointment for Your Visa Interview

This is the interview you will complete with a U.S. consular officer to determine whether or not you meet visitor visa requirements and which visitor visa you need. While you may schedule your interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate, it is recommended that you schedule it in the country in which you live – it may be more difficult to obtain a visa outside of your country of residence. To find the nearest embassy or consulate and its contact information, search for your country of residence at  USEmbassy.gov .

IS A VISA INTERVIEW REQUIRED OF ALL U.S. VISITORS?  In general, visa interviews are required of all travelers between the ages of 14-79. Interviews are not typically required of applicants 13 years and younger or 80 years and older—though consular officers reserve the right to require an interview of any visa applicant, regardless of age.

3. Check the Typical Wait Time for Your Country

Understand that wait times vary by location, visa category, and even season, which is why you should apply early. You can check the wait time for your embassy or consulate under  "Appointment Wait Time" at travel.state.gov .

4. Pay the Non-Refundable Visa Application Fee

This is a $160 fee that may be required before your interview. Citizens or residents of certain countries will be required to pay an additional visa issuance fee (upon visa approval). To determine whether you’ll owe an issuance fee, select your nationality under “Prepare for Your Interview” at the  state.gov “Visitor Visa” page .

5. Gather the Required Documents

Prior to your visitor visa interview, ensure you have the following:

• Passport that is valid for 6 months after your planned departure from the United States
• Nonimmigrant visa application Form DS-160 confirmation page
• Application fee payment receipt (if payment is required prior to interview)
• One printed photo that complies with visitor visa photo requirements (in case your photo fails to upload to the online Form-DS-160)

Note that the U.S. Embassy or Consulate may request additional documentation which serves as evidence of the following:

• The purpose of your trip: Evidence could include your itinerary, travel plans, or proof of family ties in the United States.
• Your intentions to leave the U.S. when your visa expires: You could provide evidence of a job back home, friends or family, or ties to a church or social club in your home country.
• Your financial means which allow you to travel to the USA: Evidence could include bank statements, credit cards, or pay slips. A  tourist visa health insurance policy  could help demonstrate your ability to pay for medical expenses by showing that you have coverage for unexpected injury or illness.

6. Attend Your Visa Interview

See  tourist visa interview practice questions and interview tips.

What Is U.S. Tourist Visa Health Insurance?

Tourist visa health insurance is travel medical insurance that provides international coverage to those traveling to the United States from abroad. It typically offers coverage for the treatment of unexpected injuries and illnesses, emergency medical evacuation, emergency travel, accidental death, and some travel mishaps (like the airline losing your checked luggage).

Why Do I Need U.S. Tourist Visa Health Insurance?

Though undeniably exciting, international travel can still pose a risk. Here are 3 reasons to consider health insurance for your tourist visa:

1. There’s always a chance you could encounter a travel mishap, accident, or illness that calls for tourist visa insurance.  After all, you’ll be navigating a foreign country while likely trying new foods, dealing with the effects of jet lag, and exposing yourself to foreign bacteria.

2. Your domestic health policy may not cover you in the United States.  Even if it does, it may provide limited coverage. In the U.S., people are responsible for their own healthcare costs, meaning you’ll be financially responsible for any medical expenses that result from an unexpected illness or injury.

3. According to  healthcare.gov , a broken leg can cost up to $7,500 to fix in the U.S., and the average cost of a 3-day hospital stay is around $30,000.  Tourist visa health insurance, as noted by the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , can reduce “the cost of a medical emergency" and the resulting “financial burden on travelers" by providing access to quality care and financial help if the unexpected occurs as you travel the country.

4. You may be asked to show proof of your ability to pay return travel, lodging, and medical costs.  A tourist visa health policy like  Atlas America  could help demonstrate your ability to pay for medical expenses by showing that you have coverage for unexpected injury or illness.  When you purchase Atlas America insurance, you’ll be given access to a visa letter which can serve as proof of work visa health insurance.

What Does U.S. Tourist Visa Health Insurance Cover?

In the face of a medical or travel emergency in the United States, a tourist visa health plan like Atlas America can provide access to a wide network of doctors and hospitals, emergency assistance, and a number of vital benefits.

Here Are a Few Highlights of Atlas America Insurance:

• 100% coverage for eligible medical expenses – after the deductible and up to the overall maximum limit – for injuries and illness incurred inside the U.S.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation
• Trip Interruption, Travel Delay, and Lost Checked Luggage coverage
• Multilingual emergency assistance available 365 days a year

Atlas America Offers Several Different Policies to International Visitors:

• Atlas Travel:   Flexible and generally budget-friendly, this balanced plan offers high coverage limits for single international trips.
• Atlas Premium:   This plan provides even higher coverage limits for a number of important benefits.
• Atlas Group:   This plan provides the same coverage as Atlas Travel – at a 10% reduced rate for groups or families of 5 or more!

Atlas America policies are available to individuals 14 days or older who are traveling to the U.S. from abroad and looking for coverage of up to one year.

Why Choose Atlas America Insurance?

When you purchase an Atlas policy from WorldTrips, you can expect:

• Flexibility:  Policies allow you to select the deductible, length of coverage, and coverage maximum that best align with your travel needs.
• Ease-of-Use:  Online fulfillment is available immediately and no health screenings are required for acceptance. Plus, our  wide provider network  covers the majority of the United States, making it easy to find quality doctors and treatment.
• Assistance:  Policies come with access to a full line of  travel assistance services , available in multiple languages 365 days a year.

"Of the top eight travel insurance companies in our review, WorldTrips’ underwriting company is the only one to have an A++ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best."

“WorldTrips is the best travel insurance company of 2024, based on our analysis of cost and coverage options.” 

KHE2FFFYH6SP-152-390

WorldTrips international travel medical insurance products are underwritten by Lloyd's. WorldTrips is a service company and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. WorldTrips has authority to enter into contracts of insurance on behalf of the Lloyd's underwriting members of Lloyd's Syndicate 4141, which is managed by HCC Underwriting Agency, Ltd.

USCIS Guide

Find Answers to Immigration Questions

U.S. Tourist Visa and Travel Insurance Requirements

1. what types of u.s. visas are available for international tourists, 2. how do i apply for a u.s. tourist visa, 3. what documents are required to apply for a u.s. tourist visa, 4. how long does it take to obtain a u.s. tourist visa, 5. what is the cost of a u.s. tourist visa, 6. what is the maximum period of stay allowed on a u.s. tourist visa, 7. what are the restrictions related to a u.s. tourist visa, 8. is travel insurance required for visiting the united states, 9. does travel insurance cover medical expenses while visiting the united states, 10. what type of travel insurance is accepted by the united states, 11. how much does travel insurance cost for a trip to the united states, 12. how do i purchase travel insurance for a trip to the united states, 13. what are the benefits of purchasing travel insurance for a trip to the united states, 14. what type of coverage should i look for when purchasing travel insurance for a trip to the united states, 15. what are the cancellation and/or refund policies associated with travel insurance for trips to the united states, 16. does travel insurance provide coverage for lost or stolen items while visiting the united states, 17. are there any exclusions related to travel insurance purchased for visits to the united states, 18. are there age restrictions associated with purchasing travel insurance for visits to the united states, 19. are there any requirements related to pre-existing medical conditions when purchasing travel insurance for visits to the united states, 20 are there any special considerations related to covid-19 when purchasing travel insurance for visits to the united states.

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Immigration status to qualify for the Marketplace

Immigration status.

• Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR/Green Card holder)
• Cuban/Haitian Entrant
• Paroled into the U.S.
• Conditional Entrant Granted before 1980
• Battered Spouse, Child and Parent
• Victim of Trafficking and his/her Spouse, Child, Sibling or Parent
• Granted Withholding of Deportation or Withholding of Removal, under the immigration laws or under the Convention against Torture (CAT)
• Individual with Non-immigrant Status, includes worker visas (such as H1, H-2A, H-2B), student visas, U-visa, T-visa, and other visas, and citizens of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
• Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)
• Deferred Action Status (Exception: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is not an eligible immigration status for applying for health insurance)
• Lawful Temporary Resident
• Administrative order staying removal issued by the Department of Homeland Security
• Member of a federally-recognized Indian tribe or American Indian born in Canada

Applicant for certain statuses

• Temporary Protected Status with Employment Authorization
• Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
• Victim of Trafficking Visa
• Adjustment to LPR Status
• Asylum — only if you've been granted employment authorization or are under age 14 and have an application pending for at least 180 days
• Withholding of Deportation, or Withholding of Removal, under the immigration laws or under the Convention against Torture (CAT) tent

Employment authorization with certain statuses

• Registry Applicants
• Order of Supervision
• Applicant for Cancellation of Removal or Suspension of Deportation
• Applicant for Legalization under Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA)
• Legalization under the LIFE Act

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Tourism & Visit

Study & Exchange

Other Visa Categories

U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Visa Information & Resources

Share this page:

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Japanese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Turkish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Hebrew

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Albanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Tagalog

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Russian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Polish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Ukranian

Visa Wizard

Visa Denials

Fraud Warning

What the Visa Expiration Date Means

Automatic Revalidation

Lost and Stolen Passports, Visas, and Arrival/Departure Records (Form I-94)

Directory of Visa Categories

Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

Customer Service Statement

Photo Requirements

Photo Examples

Digital Image Requirements

Photo Frequently Asked Questions

Photo Composition Template

Online Immigrant Visa Forms

DS-260 Immigrant Visa Electronic Application - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

DS-160: Frequently Asked Questions

Administrative Processing Information

Visa Appointment Wait Times

Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico

Frequently Asked Questions

Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Countries

What is a U.S. Visa?

About Visas - The Basics

Rights and Protections for Foreign-Citizen Fiancé(e)s and Spouses of U.S. Citizens and Spouses of Lawful Permanent Residents

Your Rights and Protections

Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers

Advisory Opinions

Fees for Visa Services

Treaty Countries

Fees and Reciprocity Tables

Temporary Reciprocity Schedule

Country Acronyms

Reciprocity: What's New? 2019 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New? 2022 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New? 2020 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New? 2021 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New?

Reciprocity: What's New? 2023 Archive

Safety & Security of U.S. Borders: Biometrics

National Visa Center Customer Service Pledge

Americans Traveling Abroad

The United States and China Agree to Extending Visas for Short-term Business Travelers, Tourists, and Students

Special Visa Processing Procedures Pursuant to Section 306

Capitalizing on Visa Demand to Spur Economic Growth in the United States

Congressional Testimony

Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CRFP) Program Appointments

List of U.S. Embassies and Consulates - K1-K3 Visas

U.S. Government Fact Sheet on Female Genital Mutilation or Cutting (FGM/C)

Skill List by Country

Presidential Proclamation 9645 and the January 2020 Presidential Proclamation

Public Inquiry Form

List of U.S. Embassies and Consulates

Affidavit of Support Fee Refund

Immigrant Visa Prioritization

USCIS Extends Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Religious Workers (R-1) Nonimmigrant Visa Classification

Record Numbers of U.S. Students Are Studying Abroad

U.S. Student Visas Reach Record Numbers in 2007

U.S. security officials will begin scanning all 10 fingerprints of most non-Americans traveling to the United States

Electronic Submission of Diversity Visa Lottery Applications

USCIS Centralizes Filing for H-2A Petitions

USCIS Field Office Adopts Teletech Call Appointment System For Filing Waiver of Inadmissibility Applications

Application Fees for Non-Immigrant Visas to Increase on January 1, 2008

Senior Advisors to Brief Press on the Latest Developments in Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa Issues

Briefing on Developments in the Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) Admissions Programs

DHS Proposes Changes to Improve H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program

Testimony of Stephen A. “Tony” Edson on U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Science and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, House Committee on Science and Technology

Update: Biometric Changes for Re-entry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents

With All the Talk about Illegal Immigration, a Look at the Legal Kind

Latvia, Estonia Sign Deals with US on Visa-Free Travel

Fact Sheet: Changes to the FY2009 H-1B Program

USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas

USCIS Releases Preliminary Number of FY 2009 H-1B Cap Filings

USCIS Extends Comment Period for Proposed Change to H-2A Program

USCIS Runs Random Selection Process for H-1B Petitions

17-Month Extension of Optional Practical Training for Certain Highly Skilled Foreign Students

DHS Begins Collecting 10 Fingerprints from International Visitors at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption Enters into Force

USCIS to Accept H-1B Petitions Sent to California or Vermont Service Centers Temporary Accommodation Made for FY 09 Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative

USCIS Announces Update for Processing Petitions for Nonimmigrant Victims of Criminal Activity

USCIS to Allow F-1 Students Opportunity to Request Change of Status

Immigration Tops Agenda at North American Summit

USCIS Issues Guidance for Approved Violence against Women Act (VAWA) Self-Petitioners

USCIS Modifies Application for Employment Authorization Previous Versions of Form I-765 Accepted until July 8, 2008

Overseas Education More Attainable for Chinese Students

New York Business Group Seeks Fewer Restrictions on Foreign Worker Visas

Coming to the United States Temporarily - Nonimmigrant Visa Services Coming to the United States Permanently - Immigrant Services Special Visa Services

This webpage lists visa application fees and other visa related fees collected by Department of State. Note that many immigration-related forms are submitted to the Department of Homeland Security’s United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and not to the Department of State. If the type of information or form you are seeking is not shown here, select USCIS Forms and Fees  to go to the USCIS Website to review more.

Coming to the United States Temporarily - Nonimmigrant Visa Services

Nonimmigrant visa application processing fees are tiered, as shown below, based on the visa category for which you are applying.

Notice: Every visa applicant must pay the visa application processing fee for the visa category being applied for, unless the application fee is not required, as listed below .

Description of Service and Fee Amount (All fees = $ in US currency)

Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee (non-refundable) for all categories below

• Non-petition-based nonimmigrant visa (except E): $185.00

Includes (but not limited to), the following visa categories:

*Though petition-based nonimmigrant visas, the processing fee for these visas is $185.00

• Petition based visa categories: $205.00

Includes these visa categories:

• E - Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty category visa: $315.00
• K – Fiancé(e) or Spouse of U.S. citizen category visa: $265.00

Border crossing card fees

• Border crossing card - age 15 and over (Valid 10 years): $185.00
• Border crossing card - under age 15; for Mexican citizens if parent or guardian has or is applying for a border crossing card (valid 10 years or until the applicant reaches age 15, whichever is sooner): $15.00
• L visa fraud prevention and detection fee - for visa applicant included in L blanket petition  (principal applicant only): $500.00
• The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-113) increases fees for certain H-1B and L-1 petitioners.  Consular sections collect this fee for blanket L-1 visa applications (principal applicant only) filed by petitioners who employ 50 or more individuals in the United States if more than 50 percent of those individuals are in H-1B or L-1 nonimmigrant status: $4,500.00 

When the nonimmigrant visa application processing fee is not required:

• Applicants for A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO, and diplomatic visas (defined in 22 CFR 41.26): No Fee
• Applicants for J visas participating in official U.S. Government-sponsored educational and cultural exchanges: No Fee (See Exchange Visitor Visas for further detailed fee information.)
• Replacement of machine-readable visa when the original visa was not properly affixed or needs to be reissued through no fault of the applicant: No Fee
• Applicants exempted by international agreement as determined by Visa Services, including members and staff of an observer mission to United Nations Headquarters recognized by the UN General Assembly, and their immediate families: No Fee
• Applicants travelling to provide charitable services as determined by Visa Services: No Fee
• U.S. government employees travelling on official business: No Fee
• A parent, sibling, spouse or child of a U.S. government employee killed in the line of duty who is traveling to attend the employee’s funeral and/or burial; or a parent, sibling, spouse, son or daughter of a U.S. government employee critically injured in the line of duty for visitation during emergency treatment and convalescence: No Fee

Nonimmigrant visa issuance fee, including border-crossing cards.

• See the  Visa Reciprocity Tables  to find out the visa issuance fee amount, if applicable:  Fee varies (Reciprocal)

When the nonimmigrant visa issuance fee is not required:

• An official representative of a foreign government or an international or regional organization of which the United States is a member; members and staff of an observer mission to United Nations Headquarters recognized by the UN General Assembly; and applicants for diplomatic visas as defined under item 22(a); and their immediate families:  No Fee
• An applicant transiting to and from the United Nations Headquarters:  No Fee
• An applicant participating in a U.S. government sponsored program which may include applicant’s dependent spouse and children:  No Fee
• An applicant travelling to provide charitable services as determined by Visa Services:  No Fee

Other - When a Visa is Not Required - Visa Waiver Program

• Citizens of Visa Waiver Program participating countries, and meeting requirements pay a small fee. Select USCIS fees to learn more.

Coming to the United States Permanently - Immigrant Services

Immigrant visa application processing fees are tiered, as shown below, based on the visa category you apply for.

Notice: Every visa applicant must pay the visa application processing fee for the visa category being applied for.

Filing an Immigrant Visa Petition  (When collected by U.S. Embassies and Consulates for USCIS. Fees subject to change.)

Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fees (non-refundable, per person) 

Note: Forms and fee amounts are listed for immigration petitions which are submitted to Department of State, either accepted at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad, or within the United States to the National Visa Center or Kentucky Consular Center. Other immigration related forms can only be approved by the Department of Homeland Security's United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For other fees (relating to forms starting with an "I" select USCIS Forms and Fees for additional information.

Special Visa Services

Note:   These fee charts are based on the Code of Federal Regulations - Title 22, Part 22, Sections 22.1 through 22.7.)

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News What is a U.S. Visa? Diversity Visa Program Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

Global Visa Wait Times

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - English

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - French

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Spanish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Portuguese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Mandarin

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Arabic

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Italian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - German

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Vietnamese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Romanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Korean

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Armenian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Bulgarian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Czech

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Hungarian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Indonesian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Lithuanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Serbian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Thai

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Mongolian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Kurdish

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

U.S. News takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Travel Insurance for Seniors & Retirees: 5 Top Picks

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Trawick International »

GeoBlue »

IMG Travel Insurance »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Trawick International

While anyone planning a trip overseas can benefit from having a travel insurance plan in place, older travelers need to prioritize this coverage more than others. The fact is, senior travelers and retirees have unique worries and risks to think about any time they travel far from home. These risks increase their need for travel health insurance and emergency medical coverage, as well as coverage for emergency medical evacuation that applies anywhere in the world.

Which travel insurance options work best for seniors? There are many travel insurance plans that were created with retirees in mind, although you'll want to compare them side by side. For example, you may want to look at coverage limits for medical expenses and coverage for preexisting conditions above all else.

U.S. News editors compared more than 20 of the top travel insurance companies to find the best plans for seniors. This list does the heavy lifting for you as you search for the best senior travel insurance of 2023, so read on to learn about the top picks.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Annual Coverage
• Trawick International: Best Premium Travel Insurance for Seniors
• GeoBlue: Best Travel Medical Coverage for Expats
• IMG Travel Insurance: Best for Short-Term Travel Medical Coverage
• WorldTrips: Best for Flexibility

Available to senior travelers of all ages

Coverage for preexisting conditions is offered

Relatively low limits for emergency medical expenses

• Coverage for COVID-19
• Trip cancellation coverage up to $3,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $3,000
• Emergency medical coverage up to $20,000
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $100,000
• Baggage loss coverage up to $1,000
• Baggage delay insurance up to $200
• Travel delay coverage up to $600 ($200 daily limit)
• Rental car damage and theft coverage up to $45,000
• Travel accident coverage up to $25,000
• 24-hour hotline for assistance
• Concierge service
• Preexisting condition coverage (must be added to plan within 14 days of first trip deposit or payment)

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Customize plan with optional CFAR coverage

Incredibly high limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation

Coverage is for trips up to 30 days if you're age 80 and older

• Up to $15,000 in trip cancellation insurance
• Up to $22,500 in trip interruption coverage
• Up to $1,000 for trip delays ($200 daily limit for delays of 12-plus hours)
• Up to $1,000 for missed connections
• Up to $150,000 for emergency medical expenses
• Up to $1 million in emergency medical evacuation coverage
• $750 in emergency dental coverage
• $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• $400 in baggage delay coverage
• 24/7 noninsurance assistance services

Get comprehensive health insurance that applies overseas

Preventive and routine care included

Age limits apply for new applicants and renewals

• Preventive and routine care
• Professional services like surgery
• Inpatient medical care
• Ambulatory and therapeutic services
• Rehabilitation and therapy

Get overseas medical coverage for single trips or multiple trips

Plans were created with seniors and retirees in mind

Lower maximum coverage limits for travelers ages 80 and older

Limited nonmedical travel insurance benefits

• Inpatient and outpatient medical coverage such as for physician visits, hospitalization and surgery
• Emergency and nonemergency medical evacuation coverage
• Coverage for emergency reunions
• Return of mortal remains
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to $5,000
• Lost luggage coverage worth up to $250 (up to $50 per item)
• Coverage for terrorism worth up to $50,000
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage worth up to $25,000

Customize your deductible and premiums

Generous medical limits for travelers ages 65 to 79

Limited medical coverage for travelers older than 80

• Up to $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage
• Medical benefits like hospital room and board, chiropractic care, and more
• Coverage for repatriation of remains
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage
• Up to $10,000 in trip interruption insurance
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for lost checked luggage
• Up to $100 per day in coverage for travel delays of 12-plus hours
• Up to $1,500 in coverage for bedside visits
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency reunions

Frequently Asked Questions

You can purchase some travel insurance plans (but not all) if you're older than 80 years old. However, your premiums may be higher and you'll typically qualify for lower coverage limits overall. Make sure you compare the best travel insurance plans for seniors to find the right fit for your needs.

Since seniors and retirees are more likely to face a medical emergency during a trip, most travel insurance plans for seniors include coverage for emergency medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation. Coverages vary among plans, as do limits, so make sure to compare options before you book a trip overseas.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered international travel and travel insurance for more than a decade. Johnson has researched and compared all the top travel insurance options for her own family for trips to more than 50 countries around the world, and she has successfully filed claims during that time. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg, a travel agent who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states.

You might also be interested in:

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

Holly Johnson

Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Yes, in These 3 Scenarios

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

Does My Health Insurance Cover International Travel?

Private health insurance typically doesn't cover international travel expenses.

How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance (+ What to Tip)

Suzanne Mason and Rachael Hood

From planning to arrival, get helpful tips to make the journey easier.

• Become An Agent

Respect Senior Care Rider: 9152007550 (Missed call)

Help Control COVID-19 New

Get In Touch

Claim Assistance Numbers

Health toll free Number 1800-103-2529

24x7 Roadside Assistance 1800-103-5858

Global Travel Helpline +91-124-6174720

Extended Warranty 1800-209-1021

Agri Claims 1800-209-5959

Sales : 1800-209-0144

Service : 1800-209-5858

• Motor Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Travel Insurance
• Home Insurance
• Cyber Insurance
• Knowledge Bytes
• Senior Health Care
• Announcements
• Pet Insurance
• All Categories
• Property Insurance

What to do if your USA Student Visa Gets Cancelled?

What does US Student VISA Cancellation mean?

• From the Embassy or Consul located in their Country, their email will inform the cancellation and the reason behind it
• In rare cases, you will get a notification written by immigration authorities or their university's international student office or through the Department of Homeland Security's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

When does a US Student Visa get Cancelled?

Us student visa cancellation reasons, poor or irregular attendance, moving to a new college, what to do if your us student visa is cancelled, understand the reason:, contact your iss office:, consider travel insurance:, closing thoughts, can i get back my us visa if it was cancelled, what happens if your f-1 visa is terminated, what is the 5-month rule for f-1, how do i know if my us visa is cancelled, how do i reactivate a terminated sevis.

Was this article helpful? Rate it

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 18

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Like this article? Share it with your friends!

Share Your Thoughts. Leave a Comment Below!

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required

Request Call Back

Full Name :

Mobile Number :

please select product

Related Articles

Twitter feed.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website uses JavaScript. Please turn on "JavaScript" and use it.

With regards to visa inquiries, you can contact “Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information” or “the Japan Visa Information Hotline” listed on the website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan. Due to the complex nature of visa requirements, we are UNABLE to respond to visa-related inquiries made through this website at the moment. We advise you to contact the Consular Section of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan nearest you for more information and advice.

If you are a foreign national, please click the links below for specific information related to respective subjects.

1. Visa Application Procedures

2. about visa.

• 3. Visa Application Documents

4. Frequently Asked Questions

5. announcements.

• 6. Inquiries Concerning Visas
• Be aware of fraudulent website, social media, emails in an attempt to extract payments from visa applicants (July 5, 2017)

Short-Term Stay

(A stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities)

Click on the nationality of the visa applicant traveling to Japan.

Visa exemption arrangements have been resumed from 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

It is highly recommended to purchase international travel medical insurance for your trip to Japan. Overseas travel medical insurance helps you in case of emergency.

Work or Long-Term Stay

(A stay during which the applicant performs remunerative work in Japan or a stay of over 90 days in Japan, etc.)

• Procedures chart for long-term stays
• The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan
• Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening

Visa for Medical Stay

Visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders.

• Points to Note and Application Procedures
• Visa Processing Time
• Validity of a Visa
• Criteria of Visa Issuance
• Visas and Landing Permission

3. Visa Application Documents (download)

• (Note1) Refer to [1. Visa Application Procedures] for details of documents required.
• (Note3) Company/personal seal on Letter of Guarantee and Letter of Invitation is no longer required.
• Visa application form
• Tell me why you rejected my visa application.
• I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?
• I want to invite a foreign national to Japan. What procedures are necessary?
• What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?
• The Certificate of Eligibility will not arrive by the time I apply for a visa. Can I still apply for a visa with its copy?
• As a “guarantor”, to what extent do I need to be responsible?

Newly introduced visas

• Special highly skilled professional (J-Skip)
• Designated activities (Future creation individual, Spouse or Child of future creation individual) (J-Find)
• Designated activities (Digital Nomad, Spouse or Child of Digital Nomad)

Review on restrictions on new entry of foreign nationals into Japan

• Application for Visa for foreign nationals eligible for Phased Measures toward Resuming Cross-Border Travel
• Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Statistics for the Number of Visas

• Number of Visas Issued in 2021(May 31,2022)

Relaxation of Visa Requirements

• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the Federative Republic of Brazil in Possession of Ordinary Passports(September 30, 2023)
• Signing of the Japan-Israel Working Holiday Agreement (April 28, 2023)
• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the State of Qatar based on Ordinary Passport Registration System (April 2, 2023)
• Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the United Arab Emirates in Possession of Ordinary Passports (November 1, 2022)
• Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (April 3, 2020)
• Japan's Visa Policy in Accordance with Measures to Combat Trafficking in Persons (February 2009)

6. Inquiries about Visas Application

Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information

Yotsuya Tower 13F, 1-6-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0004 Navi-Dial: 0570-011000 (For some IP phones and calls from overseas, please call +81-3-5369-6577) Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00

Related Links

• Websites of Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions

Language selection

• Français fr

How to apply

Additional changes to entry, testing and quarantine requirements in response to the Omicron variant

There are temporary changes for all travellers, including Canadian citizens, regardless of their vaccination status.

Additional restrictions and requirements now apply to these countries:

• Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe

News release

Changes to border measures

New border measures include

• rules for re-entering Canada, if leaving for 72 hours or less
• who is considered fully vaccinated
• rules for travelling within Canada

Starting January 15, 2022, there will be new rules for who can enter Canada as an unvaccinated or partially vaccinated traveller.

Learn more about the new measures

Venezuelan passport holders

You may need to complete extra steps when you fill out your application .

If the printed expiry date on your Venezuelan passport has passed

If the printed expiry date has passed and you’re applying for a visitor visa, study permit, work permit or to extend your stay as a temporary resident in Canada, follow these steps:

• Add 5 years to the printed expiry date shown on your passport and enter it in the expiry date field of the application form.
• Include a letter of explanation with your application stating: “I am a Venezuelan national with a Venezuelan passport, which has been extended for 5 years”.

Warning: If your passport is still expired after adding 5 years to the printed expiry date, your passport is considered expired. You’re not eligible to submit an application with that passport.

Prepare documents and apply

The reason you’re traveling to Canada determines the way you apply and the documents you need to submit with your visa application.

Why are you applying for a visitor visa?

• To visit as a tourist
• To visit for business
• To visit your spouse or partner who has sponsored you for permanent residence

What is your family member’s status in Canada?

• Canadian citizen
• Person registered under Canada’s Indian Act
• Canadian permanent resident
• Temporary resident in Canada
• For compassionate reasons
• To join a vessel as a marine crew member (known as a “seafarer”)
• None of the above

Do you plan to visit your children or grandchildren for more than 6 months?

You may be eligible to apply for a Super Visa

A super visa lets you visit your children or grandchildren for 5 years at a time. It’s a visa that provides multiple entries for a period up to 10 years.

Find out how to apply for a Super Visa

Step 1 Gather documents

Gather these documents to submit with your visa application and bring when you travel.

About the documents listed

• Not all documents listed below are required—some are optional.
• This is not an exhaustive list of acceptable proof to support your visa application.
• Only submit the recommended documents that prove you’re eligible for a visa.
• Even if you submit all the documents listed, there is no guarantee that we’ll approve your application.
• We may request more information from you in addition to what is listed here.

Documents we accept:

• passports (regular, official or diplomatic)  from most countries (see exceptions below)
• alien’s passport for stateless persons
• US Permit to Re-Enter (Form I-327)
• US Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571)
• other refugee travel documents for non-citizens

Documents we don’t accept:

• any passport issued by Somalia
• non-machine-readable passports issued by the Czech Republic
• temporary passports issued by the Republic of South Africa
• provisional passports issued by Venezuela

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you’ll use to travel to Canada

If you have a passport, you must provide a copy of

• the page that shows your birth date and country of origin
• any pages with stamps, visas or markings

If you have a travel document, it must be issued by a government and include your

• date of birth
• document number
• citizenship or residency status
• expiry date (if applicable)

Submit this document with your visa application.

Family members or third parties who apply on behalf of the applicant need to complete this form.

Submit the completed form with your visa application.

Each applicant 18 years or older must complete this form.

Submit the completed form with your visa application

Documents needed depend on whether a child under 18 years of age will travel with only 1 parent, with a relative or friend or alone.

You may need to show

• a letter that authorizes the minor child to travel to Canada
• other documents, such as adoption papers or a custody decree, depending on if the minor child travels alone or not

Consult Minor children travelling to Canada .

Submit these with your visa application.

• Show the border services officer when you arrive in Canada.

If you’ve travelled to Canada or to other countries, this can show that you’ve been able to get a visa in the past.

Proof of this includes copies of previous visas in your passport.

Include a clear copy of 1 or more of the following:

• your previous passports and/or visas (used within the last 10 years to travel outside your country)
• entry and exit stamps
• study and/or work permits that indicate your duration outside of your country
• expired or valid visas

Submit this document with your visa application

Documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you’ll do in Canada

Include copies of any of the following:

• flight details
• hotel reservations
• registration for an event

This can help us understand if you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.

Bank name and contact This allows us to contact your bank or financial institution with questions.

Proof it is your account Your name and address on the statement show that the account is yours.

Account details At least 6 months of account details, including balances, helps us understand your financial situation.

Use this form if you want to allow Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to release your personal information to someone you choose.

The person you choose will be able to get information on your case file, such as the status of your application.

Business visitor

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you'll use to travel to Canada

Submit this with your visa application.

A clear copy of 1 or more of the following:

• study and/or work permits that indicate your duration outside your country

Copies of any of the following:

A letter from your employer can confirm that you have a stable job and will return to it. It can also show that your employer supports your visit to Canada.

The letter should be printed on your employer’s official letterhead.

The letter should include the following:

• date, no earlier than 3 months before you apply
• confirmation that you have a job with the employer
• your full name and date of birth
• date you started the job
• brief description of your job
• current salary
• contact information of your manager
• phone number
• email address
• employer information
• company name
• state or province
• Your manager or human resources contact should print their name and sign the letter.

A letter from a business or company in Canada

It can confirm that your purpose for visiting Canada is valid.

A copy of the letter from the business or company inviting you to Canada

• The letter must be written to you from the business or company.

Consult the details to include in the letter .

Visit your spouse or partner who sponsored you for permanent residence

Proof of your relationship with the person or family member inviting you to Canada

This can include a copy of

• a marriage certificate
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM5409)
• a birth certificate
• an official document naming you as a parent

Each applicant 18 years and older must complete this form.

The documents needed depend on whether a child under 18 years of age will travel with only 1 parent, with a relative or friend, or alone.

• other documents, such as adoption papers or a custody decree, depending on whether the minor child travels alone

Consult Minor children travelling to Canada

A letter written by your family member in Canada

A copy of the letter from the family member inviting you to Canada

• The letter must be written to you from your family member.
• current Salary

Complete the form that declares you and your partner are in a common-law relationship. Also provide proof that you and your common-law partner have combined your affairs and set up a household together.

What is a common-law partner?

Proof can include

• joint bank accounts or credit cards
• joint ownership of a home
• joint residential leases
• joint rental receipts
• joint utilities (electricity, gas, telephone)
• joint management of household expenses
• proof of joint purchases, especially for household items
• mail addressed to either person or both people at the same address

Faster visitor visa processing for spousal applicants

If you’re being sponsored for permanent residence (PR) by your spouse or partner, you could benefit from faster processing for a visitor visa.

You may be eligible if you

• submitted an application to be sponsored for permanent residence
• received an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) that confirms the application is in progress

Applications that need more information, for example custody documents for a child, will take longer to process.

When your sponsor receives the AOR for your permanent residence application, you can apply for a visitor visa. If you’re eligible, your visitor visa application will automatically receive faster processing. You don’t need to request it.

You must still meet all of the requirements to be eligible for a visitor visa .

Visit family (Canadian citizen, person registered under Canada’s Indian Act, or permanent resident of Canada)

Submit with visa application

Visit children or grandchildren Super visa option

Submit this with your visa or super visa application.

For super visa applicants only

Proof that medical insurance for at least $100,000 coverage has been purchased from a Canadian insurance company.

A copy of the insurance certificate or policy you received for medical insurance coverage for 1 year with a Canadian insurance company.

Submit this with your super visa application.

Documents that show that the super visa applicant’s child or grandchild meets the low income cut-off minimum.

Submit one of the following documents:

• If the child or grandchild does not have a paper copy of their notice of assessment on file, they can view and print their tax returns as well as other personal tax information using the Canada Revenue Agency My Account online service.
• a copy of the child’s or grandchild’s most recent T4 or T1
• an original letter from the child’s or grandchild’s employer stating their job title, job description and salary
• a letter from an accountant confirming the child’s or grandchild’s annual income, if they are self-employed.
• proof of other sources of income (pension statement, investments, etc.)

A document confirming that you had an  immigration medical exam (IME)

The exam must conducted by a panel physician authorized by IRCC.

Get complete details about how to get a medical exam with a panel physician.

Submit this with your super visa application, or wait for instructions from the visa office.

Visit family (temporary resident of Canada)

A letter written by your family in Canada

Documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you’ll do once in Canada

Visit for compassionate reasons

A clear, colour copy of your valid passport or travel document that you'll use to travel to Canada.

• Show the border services officer when you arrive in Canada

A letter written to you from a person or business inviting you to Canada

A copy of the letter from the person or business inviting you to Canada

• registration for an event.

Please indicate clearly if family members will accompany you to Canada.

Submit the following documents with your visa application:

• digital copy of Seaman’s Book
• digital copy of a signed Letter of Invitation from a ship or port agent in Canada
• digital copy of an Introduction Letter from recruiter shipping agency or vessel owner
• digital copy of the employment contract

Step 2 Apply through the IRCC Portal

Step 2 apply.

To apply for a visitor visa to visit Canada on business, you need to qualify as a business visitor.

To qualify, you must show that:

• you plan to stay for less than 6 months
• you don’t plan to enter the Canadian labour market
• your main place of business and source of income and profits is outside Canada

Business visitor activities include business meetings, special events or training for a few days or weeks.

If your meeting, event or conference is registered with us, include the event code in your application. You should get this code from the organizer.

Note: If you plan to stay for more than 6 months, or if you plan to work in Canada, you may be considered a temporary worker and have to  apply for a work permit .

To apply online, you need a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents, and a valid credit or debit card.

Read the instruction guide before you complete your application. As an online applicant, you can ignore steps 3 and 4 of the guide (paying the fees and submitting your application).

If you’re applying for the first time , you must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application (unless you’re exempt). Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Apply through the IRCC Secure account

Sign in to your IRCC secure account

Apply through the IRCC Portal

Only for tourists, visiting for business, family visits, compassionate reasons

Sign in to the IRCC portal

To apply for a visitor visa to join a vessel as a marine crew member (seafarer) , you must

• be travelling to Canada to join a ship’s crew
• hold a seafarer’s identity document
• hold a valid passport or travel document
• have proof of employment on a vessel at a Canadian port

As a seafarer, you’re not eligible for a transit visa and you must apply for a visitor visa (temporary resident visa).

Note: When asked to “Tell us more about what you’ll do in Canada”, include “Join vessel” or “Seafarer”.

Register to the IRCC portal

Applying on paper for specific situations

If you need a visitor visa to travel to Canada, you must apply online for one. Only online applications will be accepted and processed. However, you can apply on paper if:

• you can’t apply online because of a disability or
• you’re travelling with an identity or travel document that was issued to a refugee, a stateless person or a non-citizen

The application package includes an instruction guide and all the forms you need to fill out.

Read the guide carefully before you complete your application . We will not refund your application fee, so make sure you need a visitor visa before you apply.

Each individual applicant must submit a completed application form. Applicants under the age of 18 must have this form signed by a parent or a guardian.

Download the application package .

Pay your application fees

In most cases, your fees will include processing fees for you and anyone you include on your application.

If you’re applying for the first time, you must pay the biometrics fee when you submit your application (unless you’re exempt). Otherwise, you may experience delays.

Third-party fees

Depending on your situation, you may need to pay third parties for

• your medical exam
• a police certificate

Our instruction guides (opens in a new tab) can help you understand which fees apply to you.

Submit your application

Families should send their individual applications in one package. The principal applicant must send this combined package to the location where their application will be processed.

Select the country/territory you’ll be applying from to find out where to submit your application. You can choose your country of nationality or the country or territory where you have been legally admitted:

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• China (People’s Republic of)
• Comoros Island
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Hong Kong SAR
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia (Federated States of)
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia (Republic of)
• Palestinian Authority (Gaza)
• Palestinian Authority (West Bank)
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• US Virgin Islands

If you need to give biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), and you’re applying on paper, submit your application in person . VAC staff will check that it is complete and will confirm that you have paid the correct fees before you can give your biometrics.

Credit cards and prepaid cards

We accept the following credit cards and prepaid cards:

• MasterCard ®
• American Express ®
• UnionPay ® (for online applications only; debit cards not accepted)

If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for at least 18 months after you pay to make refunds easier. Find more on prepaid cards .

We also accept all Visa Debit cards.

The card you use doesn’t have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Debit cards

• be from a Canadian bank using INTERAC ® Online
• be registered for online banking through your bank’s website

We also accept all Debit MasterCard ® and Visa ® Debit cards. If your card has the Visa Debit logo on it, alone or with the INTERAC ® Online logo, select Visa Debit as your payment method.

Page details