US health insurance for immigrant visa & visitors insurance

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What is the difference between visitors and immigrant insurance plans?

Visitors and immigrant insurance

When you are planning to visit the United States, there are some important facts you should know before your trip. Any foreign country you are visiting can be different not just geographically but also culturally, weather-wise, lifestyle, foods, and (most appropriate for this article) healthcare system.

You need not fully understand each and every aspect but a basic understanding can help you avoid trouble. There are people who would be traveling to America to permanently settle down or become residents and few other who would be traveling as tourists as short-term visitors. Both visitors and new immigrants in the US are not necessarily eligible for all benefits residents enjoy.

This rule is particularly applicable for insurance coverage. Purchasing travel insurance for immigrants to USA is mandatory and domestic health insurance plans are not applicable for international travelers or immigrants in America. The only exception would be a spouse to a current resident/citizen. There may be a mandatory waiting period, but a spouse and dependents can always be added to a domestic health plan (although the cost may be put onto the employee).

While coming to the USA, it is advisable that you get medically insured in case of any unexpected medical emergency situations. Before you research about insurance coverage in the USA, here are some basics about categories available (particularly on our website). There are visitor insurance plans and immigrant insurance plans (some of which overlap). Travelers should first decide which type of insurance they want to purchase.

Anyone in the US legally can purchase a visitor OR immigrant policy as listed on our website. However, the immigrant category has options that can be renewed and are for the long term. Some visitor options can only be purchased for 6 months or less and/or are not renewable.

How much does visitors health insurance USA cost?*

The best tourist visa travel insurance cost ranges from $20 to $353 a month. The cost depends on the age of the visitor, medical maximum coverage and deductible, visitors coverage type (Fixed vs comprehensive coverage), and any visitors insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions. For an average traveler, there are cheap travel insurance plans at less than a dollar a day. The cheapest visitor health insurance USA is a fixed benefit plan because it only covers a set amount for each medical expense. Within those parameters, you can choose an economical fixed plan or a more expensive, but complete comprehensive plan. The downside is that you only know what the insurance company will pay on your behalf; you may owe a little or a lot it will all depend on how much, specifically, for each service, you are charged. Someone in their Thirties will pay about $40 per month for a fixed plan or $60 for a comprehensive plan if traveling to USA from Europe. That same person would only pay $30 for a comprehensive plan to go to Europe. The price is usually double for someone in their sixties, and even more for older travelers. The price of best visitors insurance for the USA is approximate and can change based on the specific needs and circumstances. It is a good idea to compare different plans and get quotes from multiple providers to find the best visitors insurance coverage for your budget

Given the high US healthcare costs, being uninsured is very risky. In US hospitals, costs are much cheaper if you have short term medical insurance for international travel and the hospital is part of the travel insurance in USA PPO network. Beyond the travel insurance coverage, simply having the best health insurance for travelers to usa decreases the overall bill. It is crucial therefore to buy travel health insurance usa or health insurance for visitors in USA.

Why is travel insurance USA is so important? A routine doctor’s visit can cost between $250 to $350, while a heart attack will leave you with a bill of at least $25,000. If you need to stay in the ICU after a stroke, the cost can exceed $150,000. Even something as routine as an echocardiogram ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on where you get it. Emergency treatments for conditions like diabetes complications cost anywhere from $3,500 to $7,000, and if you need treatment for kidney failure, expect to pay over $30,000.

How much does travel insurance for USA cost per month in 2025?

How much does the cheapest visitors insurance for USA cost?

The cheapest visitor health insurance USA starts from $20 per month with options up to $191 per month. The cost depends on the age of the visitor, medical maximum coverage and deductible.

The average cost of fixed benefit visitors travel insurance for USA is based on quotes for one month.

Plan Name Plan max range Deductible Age 40 Age 60 Age 70
Safe Travels Advantage $25,000 - $150,000 $0 $20 - $58 $39 - $102 $60 - $166
Visitors care $25,000 - $100,000 $100 $25 - $47 $40 - $75 $66 - $152
Safe Travels Elite $25,000 - $175,000 $0 $26 - $76 $50 - $134 $109 - $155
Venbrook Essential $25,000 - $150,000 $0 $26 - $81 $49 - $124 $68 - $147
Visit USA Budget $50,000 - $150,000 $250 $32 - $56 $49 - $86 $84
VisitorSecure $50,000 - $130,000 $100 $34 - $62 $55 - $76 $96 - $139
Travel Medical USA visitor basic $50,000 - $150,000 $100 $42 - $52 $79 - $94 $173 - $191
Source: American Visitor Insurance®

How much does the comprehensive and best visitors insurance cost per month?

The best travel insurance cost for USA ranges from $58 to $353 per month. The cost depends on the age of the visitor, medical maximum coverage and deductible.

The average cost of comprehensive travel insurance for USA is based on quotes for one month with $250 deductible.

Visitor health insurance for USA

Review US visitor insurance plan benefits.

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How much does 6 month medical insurance for visitors to USA cost?

For a 60 years old traveler, the cost of USA visitor insurance for extended stay typically ranges around $122 to $1,050, based different coverage options on American Visitor Insurance. The best 6 month travel insurance USA which is affordable, reliable and essential depends on the age, medical needs, and traveler’s budget. From ER visits to urgent care, stay covered for 6 months in the U.S starting from just $1.50/day!

What are the types of visitors medical insurance?

Travelers in the USA as tourists, visitors or new immigrants can buy visitor medical insurance plans for a short stay in the US. International travelers can choose between fixed and comprehensive benefit visitor medical insurance plans. Fixed benefits plans are cheaper in premium cost with relatively limited coverage when compared with comprehensive benefit plans.

The main factor in determining which of these options you want is to figure out what risk do you wish to insure yourself against? If you want to insure yourself against many minor incidents likely to happen (seasonal flu, stomach issue) to persons when they travel, a fixed plan will offer coverage for these while keeping the price reasonable.

If, on the other hand, you are more worried about the lesser likely major or catastrophic medical issue, then a comprehensive plan with a large deductible will insure you will not have a large medical bill owed regardless of the seriousness of the medical incident.

Comparison of new immigrant insurance vs visitor insurance

Feature / Plan Example Immigrant Insurance(New Immigrants, Green Card Holders) Visitor Insurance(Tourists, Short-term Visitors)
Who Can Buy New immigrants, green card holders, long-term visa holders Tourists, business travelers, parents visiting USA
Purpose Coverage until eligible for domestic insurance Short-term medical coverage during U.S. visits
Eligibility Legally in the U.S.; various visa categories Anyone visiting the U.S. temporarily
Coverage Duration Up to 2 years (renewable) 5 days to 2 years (usually up to 1 year, renewable)
Coverage Type Comprehensive (some overlap with visitor plans) Fixed benefit (budget) or comprehensive (broad)
Pre-existing Coverage Limited/acute onset only Limited/acute onset only
Cost Moderate, less than domestic $20–$353/month (varies by plan, age, coverage)
Network Restrictions Flexible, some preferred providers Flexible, often any U.S. doctor/hospital
When to Buy Before/after arrival, during eligibility wait Before/after arrival, for duration of visit
Example Plans Diplomat Long Term,Patriot America Plus Atlas America,Patriot America Plus,Safe Travels USA Comprehensive,Visitors Care

How do I find the best Immigrant Insurance?

Those who are going to live in America permanently and arrived as immigrants are eligible for US immigrant insurance plans. Potential immigrants can buy H1B visa health insurance, H4 medical visa insurance and US Green card holders medical insurance plans. Insurers offer long term comprehensive coverage under these plans until the insured is eligible for domestic health insurance plans. Immigrants can shop for travel insurance for immigrants to USA plans before leaving home country or even after the arrival in the USA.

Customers looking for these insurance plans may have several queries about the coverage details, premium costs, and exclusions. At American Visitor Insurance, we have simplified the insurance comparison and purchase process to help you choose the best plan that can save your money and help you get you the coverage you want. Please note that persons with green cards have particular insurance plans they can purchase.

Why do new US immigrants need to buy proper Immigrants travel insurance?

The Trump administration announced on October 4th 2019 that new US immigrants must show proof of adequate US immigrant health insurance while applying for Immigrant visa. This rule will come into effect on November 3rd 2019 and the visa can be denied if the immigrant fails to show the proof of new immigrant health insurance USA.

The Trump administration are imposing this new rule because new immigrants who enter the US without adequate health insurance for immigrant visa sometimes fail to pay for the health care expenses which result in a burden for Taxpayers and the government. Therefore, buying good US immigrant travel insurance can help you get US visa.

While the details of the proposed immigrant insurance requirements are still to be announced, the US immigrant insurance plans that we offer on American Visitor Insurance work as short term health insurance which new US immigrants can use till they are eligible for domestic US insurance plans.

Why buy health insurance for my short visit?

Many people who travel may have this question in their minds. I am healthy, why should I buy insurance coverage? Unfortunately, the health care system in the US, while excellent in its services can be quite costly, particularly for foreigners who must convert other currencies to US dollars. Anyone at anytime can have a sudden medical emergency. Purchasing medical insurance for your trip give you financial security and can also help you gain access to better health care.

How can I get a quote and buy insurance?

Purchasing a medical insurance is easy with America Visitor Insurance. There is a simple online application form for Visitors and one for Immigrants where travelers can enter their age, dependents' age (if any), coverage limit, deductible, dates (insurance start and end), country of citizenship. and hit 'get quote' button on the form.

You will get a comprehensive list of plans that can meet your requirements of insurance in America. Since you get several plans offered from different insurance companies you have better change of saving money by choosing right policy that can provide effective coverage.

What are the mistakes that you need to avoid while buying your next travel insurance?

  • Waiting too long to buy it: Grab your travel insurance as soon as you make that first big payment you can't get back (like flights or a hotel booking). If you wait too long, you might not be covered if something unexpected happens before your insurance even starts.
  • Not knowing what your policy actually covers: Don't just skim the details! Every insurance policy has fine print about what it covers, what it doesn't cover, and any rules you need to follow. Taking a few minutes to understand this upfront will save you a lot of hassle if you end up needing to make a claim.
  • Ignoring health stuff you already have (Pre-Existing Conditions): Got a health condition you've been seeing a doctor for? You need to tell the insurance company about it and choose a plan that specifically covers pre-existing conditions. Quick tip: you usually need to buy your plan within a week or two of booking your trip to get this type of coverage included.
  • Not insuring enough for your trip's cost: Add up everything you've paid for your trip that you wouldn't get back if you canceled – flights, hotels, tours, event tickets, the whole lot. Make sure your insurance covers that total amount. If you insure for less and have to cancel, you might only get back the smaller amount you insured for, not what you actually lost.
  • Forgetting about your planned activities: Planning on hiking, skiing, hitting the water, or other adventures? Double-check that your insurance policy covers those specific activities. Some things considered more "risky" might need extra coverage or a special add-on.
  • Not keeping your paperwork handy: If you do need to make a claim, having all your documents ready makes things way easier and faster. Keep copies of your receipts, booking confirmations, any doctor's notes or medical bills, police reports (if something was stolen), and emails about delays or cancellations.

Avoiding these simple mistakes helps you get the best travel insurance for US citizens visiting USA . That way, you can relax and actually enjoy your travels across the USA with less worry!

Why choose American Visitor Insurance for Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage?

When it comes to protecting your cruise or travel investment with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance, American Visitor Insurance stands out as a trusted and flexible option. Here’s why

  • Early purchase window for maximum protection: To qualify for CFAR benefits you must buy coverage within 7 days of your initial trip deposit. American Visitor Insurance clearly supports this early purchase requirement and helping you to secure your CFAR coverage when it matters most.
  • Works with multiple reputed US travel insurance providers: American Visitor Insurance works with multiple US travel insurance providers, giving the customers a wide choice of plans to choose from.
  • Useful comparison tool and relevant information to make an informed decision: American Visitor Insurance has a very helpful comparison tool based on coverage benefits and costs to helps travelers find the best plans for their needs. The FAQ section and reviews help travelers understand the products and coverages well.
  • Generous Reimbursement Up to 75%: Their CFAR plans reimburse you up to 75% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you cancel for any reason not covered by standard insurance. This partial refund can save you thousands in unexpected cancellations.
  • True Flexibility to Cancel for Any Reason: Unlike standard trip cancellation insurance that covers only specific reasons, American Visitor Insurance’s CFAR lets you cancel your trip for any reason at all whether it’s a change of plans, health concerns or travel fears it offering unmatched peace of mind.
  • Comprehensive Travel Protection: CFAR coverage is part of a broader travel insurance plan that also includes emergency medical coverage, trip interruption, travel delay and baggage protection. This means you’re covered for a wide range of travel risks not just cancellations.
  • Transparent Terms and reliable Support: They provide clear policy details and require cancellation at least 48 hours before departure to claim CFAR benefits. Plus, their licensed customer support team is available to guide you through purchasing and claims, ensuring a smooth experience.
  • Competitive pricing and easy online access: American Visitor Insurance offers the best rates for CFAR coverage available with instant online quotes and fast policy purchase. This convenience makes it simple to protect your trip soon after booking.

In short, American Visitor Insurance combines flexibility, strong financial protection, and excellent customer service, making it a smart choice for travelers who want the freedom to cancel their trip for any reason and still recover most of their costs.

US visitor insurance - FAQ's

1. How to buy travel insurance? How to find the best international travel health insurance?

There are many international travel health insurance plans for coverage both in the USA as well as around the world offered by US insurance providers. Given the several travel insurance international options, it can be confusing to find the best health insurance for international travel for your needs.

What is very useful in making this decision is to compare travel insurance USA of different companies. The 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 international traveler insurance deductible, any international travel health insurance plans with coverage for pre-existing ailments, travel insurance international 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.

2. Why is travel insurance for USA so expensive?

There is no denying that travel insurance to USA is unfortunately very expensive. The main reason for this is simply because the cost of healthcare in the USA is very expensive and the travel insurance USA costs are directly related to the healthcare costs.

One more factor for some USA travel insurance plans to be very expensive is that there are specially designed travel insurance for USA plans available for older travelers, with higher medical coverage as well as some plans with coverage for pre-existing ailments.

3. What is the Purpose of Travel Insurance?

  • Provides travelers insurance coverage for all unforeseen medical and travel emergencies.
  • Offers financial protection against travel risks like theft, loss and damage of baggage.
  • Protects against non-refundable cost of the trip for any sudden cancellation or travel delay.

4. How much does travel insurance cost in the USA?

Travel insurance does not have a fixed standard price and varies based on different factors such as the cost of the trip, the age of the traveler, the type and amount of insurance coverage required …. In general the cost of the travel insurance cover for trip cancellation may be anywhere from 4%-10% of the total Pre-paid and non-refundable cost of the trip. For example - if your total cost of the trip is $5,000, travel insurance policy may be ranging between the price from $250-$500, subject to the variables opted.

5. How do immigrants get health insurance?

Travel insurance does not have a fixed standard price and varies based on different factors such as the cost of the trip, the age of the traveler, the type and amount of insurance coverage required …. In general the cost of the travel insurance cover for trip cancellation may be anywhere from 4%-10% of the total Pre-paid and non-refundable cost of the trip. For example - if your total cost of the trip is $5,000, travel insurance policy may be ranging between the price from $250-$500, subject to the variables opted.

6. How do immigrants get health insurance?

There are several plans designed to offer temporary coverage for new immigrants. New immigrants can buy visitors medical insurance cover which work well as new immigrant insurance in the US till they are eligible for domestic US health insurance.

These plans can provide new immigrants with coverage for up to 2 years. At American visitor insurance new immigrants can get quotes and compare several new immigrant health insurance policies and make an informed decision.

7. How much does travel insurance cost per day?

There is a minimum number of days to purchase travel insurance. It is usually five days.

8. What is the Purpose of Travel Insurance?

  • Protect the cost of your trip if you have a travel delay or need cancellation.
  • Offset added expenses due to a travel delay or lost, delayed or damaged luggage.
  • Protect from expensive medical bills in case you are injured or become ill while traveling abroad.

9. What are the benefits of travel insurance?

Travel insurance not only covers the unexpected incidents and injuries and takes care of the hospital costs, it also extends coverage for acute onset of pre existing condition, emergency evacuation, repatriation, trip interruption, trip delay, baggage loss or delay some of the travel insurance plans offer coverage for adventure sports.

Which category of Green card holder are you?

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Immigrant Plans - Long term Plans

Perfect for people planning on immigrating to US but not yet left their home countries.

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Green Card Holders Frequently traveling overseas

Green card holders who travel frequently to their home country.

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Recent US Immigrants

New US immigrants who can be parents or family members or Fiancee (K visa) visitors.

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Green Card Holders permanently living in US

Compare Green card holder insurance plans who may not immediately qualify for US domestic health insurance.

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Applied for Green Card and waiting

Parents who have applied for Green Card and are waiting for approval can buy these insurance plans.

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Popular travel insurance providers

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

US visitors insurance providers

Venbrook International
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Expertise in offering travel insurance
20+ years!
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Customers from
All U.S. states!
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Customers from over
180 countries!