Travel health insurance for UK visitors to USA
Avoid Costly Medical Bills: A guide to travel health insurance for UK travelers
Welcome to our guests from across the pond! Nearly 5 million out of the 75 million international tourists visiting the US each year come from the United Kingdom. UK tourists understandably are very comfortable traveling in the US given the comfort with the language and similar cultural values.
Visa & entry requirements for UK travelersBritish citizens can visit the US without a visa for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). However, they must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before traveling.
Is travel insurance mandatory for UK visitors to the USA?
There is no legal requirement for UK travelers to buy medical insurance for travel to USA. However, it's strongly recommended, as the British National Health Service (NHS) will not be applicable in the US and since travelers from the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Ireland) in America are considered 'tourists', US domestic health insurance plans that insure US residents are not available to British tourists. Unlike the UK, the US has no universal healthcare, and medical costs can be extremely high.
Since UK citizens cannot purchase US domestic health insurance, the best alternative is visitors medical insurance, which provides essential financial protection.
Why travel insurance for UK citizens visiting USA is essential?
While traveling to the US is exciting, an unexpected illness or accident can quickly become a financial burden. The US healthcare system operates on a private basis, even a simple hospital visit can cost thousands of dollars. Travel health insurance for UK visitors to the USA provides financial protection and medical assistance in case of unexpected illness, injury, or medical emergencies while visiting the United States. On American Visitor Insurance, you can compare different visitor health insurance plans for travel to the USA. For more details, please contact us at (877)-340-7910 or email us, and one of our licensed agents will be happy to assist you.
Can a British citizen get health insurance in the US?
The USA along with being the one of the most desired travel destinations across the world, has also been a safe place to travel and enjoy a vacation for UK vacationers. However like anywhere there is always a chance of unforeseen injuries and illness in a new country. The best travel health insurance for travel to USA will ensure coverage for travel related medical expenses while in the US.
UK travelers can buy travel health insurance UK to USA online as this is quickest and most convenient. At American Visitor Insurance there are several UK to USA traveler insurance plans offered by some of the best US insurance providers.
US travel insurance plans are recommended while traveling to the US as the insurance providers work directly with the healthcare providers for direct billing and any clarifications regarding claims. Some of these travel medical insurance UK to USA plans also provide coverage for acute-onset of pre-existing conditions.
Is it better to buy travel insurance from USA or UK?
When selecting a travel insurance for the USA, US-based travel insurance is a better option for UK visitors due to key advantages:
- US-based insurers provide access to Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) networks, allowing healthcare services with direct billing options.
- The US does not have universal healthcare, and medical expenses can be extremely high. US-based insurers provide higher coverage limits and better benefits to meet these costs compared to UK policies.
- UK travel insurance plans often focus on trip cancellations and baggage loss, while US-based travel insurance offers coverage for medical emergencies, hospital stays, and repatriation.
- Many USA travel insurance plans cover the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, which UK-based policies generally exclude or offer with limitations.
- US-based travel insurance simplifies access to healthcare and emergency support, as insurers are well-versed in the US healthcare system, enabling quicker response times during emergencies.
UK travelers can compare and buy the best medical insurance for visitors to USA on American Visitor Insurance online. For more details please contact us at (877)-340-7910 or email and one of our licensed agents to get help finding best travel insurance for US visitors from the UK.
How much does US health insurance for UK citizen 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 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.
In the US, the cost of a routine physician's visit is on average as high as $176. An echocardiogram can cost $1,000 in Massachusetts and around $3,000 in New Jersey depending on the provider. The cost of common ailments like Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperglycemia admitted to an emergency room will cost around $2,500 -$5,000. Stroke resulting in ICU for about 10 days would cost $120,000, Heart attack treatment with medical bills for ambulance, hospital emergency room, ICU, EKG and MRI heart scans and continuing care from cardiologists would cost about $20,000, The average treatment cost of acute kidney failure in the USA was over $22,000.
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 | $21 - $45 | $40 - $75 | $66 - $148 |
| Safe Travels Elite | $25,000 - $175,000 | $0 | $26 - $76 | $50 - $134 | $109 - $155 |
| 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 |
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.
| Plan name | Plan maximum | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas Essential America | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $58 - $109 | $131 - $266 | $263 - $328 |
| Safe Travels USA Cost Saver | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $71 - $117 | $139 - $250 | $237 - $299 |
| Visitors Preferred | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $77 - $144 | $148 - $301 | $253 |
| Patriot America Lite | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $72 - $130 | $153 - $289 | $252 - $337 |
| Atlas America | $50,000 - $2,000,000 | $78 - $154 | $177 - $378 | $355 - $444 |
| Patriot America Plus | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $77 - $139 | $164 - $311 | $287 - $434 |
| Travel Medical Basic | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $80 - $138 | $167 - $314 | $252 - $337 |
| Safe Travels USA | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $80 - $157 | $147 - $295 | $252 - $332 |
| Diplomat America | $50,000 - $1,000,000 | $125 -$214 | $229 - $301 | $353 |
Visitor health insurance for USA
Review US visitor insurance plan benefits.
What does the best travel insurance to USA from the UK cover?
The best travel insurance to USA from UK offers comprehensive protection against unexpected medical and travel-related expenses. Key coverage includes:
- Emergency medical treatment: Covers doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery, and emergency care for unexpected illnesses or injuries.
- Prescription medications: Pays for necessary medicines prescribed during your trip.
- Medical Evacuation & Repatriation: Covers transportation to the nearest suitable medical facility or return to the UK if needed.
- Pre-existing conditions: Some policies offer acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
What to look for in a best travel insurance for UK families visiting the US?
Traveling to the USA is an exciting experience, but the healthcare system in the US is among the most expensive in the world. Without proper travel health insurance, a medical emergency can result in significant financial strain. To ensure you have the right protection, here are the key factors to consider when choosing a temporary health insurance for UK travelers to the US:
- Medical coverage: Choose a comprehensive plan for full coverage on emergencies, hospitalization, doctor visits etc.., as it offers better protection than fixed-benefit plans with limited payouts.
- High coverage limits: Since medical costs in the USA are high, choose a plan with a sufficient coverage limit at least $100,000 to $500,000 is recommended for emergency medical expenses. Some plans even offer coverage of $1 million or more for added security.
- Deductibles: Compare the premium costs with coverage benefits. Also, check the deductibles the amount you must pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in. A lower deductible means fewer upfront expenses, but it might come with a slightly higher premium.
- Emergency medical evacuation & repatriation: The best travel insurance for UK travelers to USA covers emergency evacuation to the nearest suitable facility or repatriation home if needed, ensuring protection in case of severe illness or injury.
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, check if the plan covers acute onset of these conditions. Some insurers offer limited coverage for sudden and unexpected flare-ups.
- Network of hospitals & direct billing: Some insurance providers work with a network of hospitals that offer cashless or direct billing services. This can be helpful in avoiding large out-of-pocket expenses during emergencies.
Which is the affordable US health insurance for UK residents?
The Safe Travels Advantage insurance plan offers cheap travel insurance for UK visitors going to the United States. For a 40-year-old traveler, the monthly cost starts at $20, with a $0 deductible and a policy maximum of $25,000. The price may vary depending on the traveler’s age, plan maximum, and deductible.
What is the best travel insurance for UK travelers to USA?
International travelers to the US can find the best visitors coverage insurance comparing among several different companies and health insurance for USA travel plans. The best US travel insurance varies depending on the specific needs of the traveler. Older travelers will want best health insurance for visitors to USA to include existing medical ailments coverage which is more expensive, while younger travelers might be satisfied with cheap travel insurance which offer basic coverage.
Best travel medical insurance for visitors to the USA are:
- Atlas America: Popular visitor insurance plan designed for non-US residents visiting the US. It offers compreheive coverage for emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation and repatriation up to $2,000,000 in medical coverage.
- Patriot America Lite: Cheap short term health insurance plan designed for visitors to the US. It offers coverage for emergency medical treatment and medical evacuation, with coverage limits up to $1,000,000.
- Patriot America Plus: Comprehensive visitor insurance plan for non-US residents traveling to the United States. It offers coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions for visitors under the age of 70. The policy provides up to $1,000,000 in coverage for emergency medical treatment.
- Safe Travels USA Comprehensive: Travel medical insurance plan for non-US citizens visiting the USA. It offers extensive medical coverage, including up to $1,000,000 for medical coverage for accidents and illnesses and limited coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
- VisitorSecure: Cheapest visitor insurance plan designed for international travelers visiting the US. Offers up to $1,000,000 in emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, and repatriation.
- Travel Medical Basic: Affordable coverage for emergency medical treatment and medical evacuation during short-term travel to the US. It covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions for visitors aged under 80 years.
How can I buy US health insurance for UK citizen online?
1: Enter your travel details
Enter your trip details to get a travel medical insurance quote. Provide the coverage duration, traveler’s age, and destination to find the best short term medical insurance for UK visitors. Consider policies that cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions and any extreme sports activities you plan to participate in.
2: Compare the different travel insurance options
Use the comparison tool to compare different health insurance options for UK citizens in the USA to identify what fits your needs.
3: Buy the travel health insurance UK to USA online
Once you find the best travel insurance for your specific needs, click buy link provided fill the form and complete the online application. Make a premium payment online using credit / debit card.
4: Review insurance plan documents received by emaill
After payment, your insurance documents and confirmation email will be sent to your registered email ID. Review the policy for coverage details and relevant contact numbers.
What are the types of travel insurance?
Single Trip Travel Insurance
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Does travel insurance cover medical evacuation for UK travelers?
UK citizens who need insurance coverage for expenses due to international travel medical evacuation and repatriation can buy travel medical evacuation insurance commonly called “Medevac insurance”.
The Atlas Medevac insurance from World Trips covers emergency medical evacuation for UK citizens traveling outside the United Kingdom.
Which is the best health insurance for UK students in United States?
There are about 11,500 students from the United Kingdom currently studying in the United States. Most of the students from the UK are in Undergraduate programs while about 25% are Graduate student and another 10% in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) status.
Given the expensive healthcare system in the US it is important for students from the UK to buy adequate student medical insurance in the United States. While most Universities offer student medical insurance, the college student insurance is expensive, and students would prefer outside student insurance if the university allows it. The international student insurance plans that we provide are more affordable than college student insurance plans while having similar benefits. Our OPT student insurance plans are also very popular with UK students on the Optional Practical Training (OPT) status.
Which insurance can I buy if I'm coming to the US on a 3 year visa from the UK?
I wanted to check if I would be eligible as it says that US visitor insurance is for foreign residents. I do currently live in the UK but as I'm coming to the US on a 3 year visa I wasn't sure I would count as a US resident once I enter the States?
Technically, you are not a US permanent resident until you have a green card. Until then you are a "visitor" regardless of how long you have been in the US. Students stay here for years and then get work visas, but without a green card, they continue to be eligible for our visitor plans as long as they can put down a foreign "residence" address.
You can compare the different UK to USA travel insurance options using our compare tool.
Based on your needs, we suggest that you take a look at this great comprehensive plan called Safe Travels USA Cost Saver. It is offered by Trawick International and as the name implies is very economical sometimes costing less than even fixed plans! You have very flexible options for maximum and deductibles.
To get a quote and or make your purchase, you can use this link for Buy Now
To get all the details of the policy, including the brochure, PPO network, etc, use this link:Hope this helps!
Sincerely,
www.americanvisitorinsurance.com
Customer care
(877) 340 7910
Regards,
Nathalie
How to handle medical emergencies in the USA as a UK traveler?
- Call emergency services: Dial 911 for immediate medical help in case of a serious emergency. Paramedics will arrive and transport you to the nearest hospital.
- Visit the nearest hospital or Urgent care: For non-life-threatening issues, urgent care centers are a more affordable and faster alternative to hospital ERs.
- Provide insurance details: Hospitals will ask for proof of travel insurance. If insured, your provider may cover costs directly; otherwise, you may need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement.
- Contact your insurance provider: Notify your insurer immediately for guidance on coverage, claims, and approved medical facilities.
- Keep medical bills & reports: Maintain records of all treatments and payments for reimbursement or future reference.
Best travel insurance for USA visitors from UK FAQ’s
1. Do UK citizens need travel insurance for the USA?
Is health insurance for UK visitors to US required? Is it required to buy Travel Insurance for the UK visitors to USA?
Since the National Health Service (NHS) will not provide health cover outside the UK, Health insurance for UK visitors is very much required! Health Care is very expensive in the United States, where not having travel health insurance for USA can be catastrophic. Having short term medical insurance for UK visitors can be a huge relief which comes in handy during any major unexpected sickness or injury while in the US
UK travelers are urged to buy short term Travel Insurance for the UK visitors to USA to have a safe sojourn in the US. They can buy single trip travel insurance for the USA.
2. Can a UK tourist get health insurance in USA? How can one buy Travel Insurance for the UK visitors to USA?
Yes, UK tourists can and should buy travel medical insurance for USA visitors from UK. This type of single trip travel insurance is designed to cover medical expenses and other travel-related incidents while you are abroad. UK tourists can compare different plans online and then buy the best travel insurance for USA to get coverage as early as the following day. Ensure that the UK to USA travel insurance plan covers emergency medical expenses, hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescription medications. It is advisable to select a US single trip travel insurance with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage.
3. What affects the cost of short term travel health insurance for UK to USA?
The cost of a UK travel health insurance for USA plan differs widely with the type of coverage purchased by the visitor. While a short trip may cost just a few Dollars when compared to a long term or annual trips.
Below are some factors that determine the cost of travel insurance plans
- Age of the traveler: The cost of travel insurance is directly proportional to the age of the traveler. The older the traveler and greater will be the cost of the visitors health insurance.
- Type of travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance which provide exhaustive coverage are more expensive than fixed benefit travel insurance
- Medical maximum coverage and deductible options: The price of visitors' medical insurance is directly dependant on the maximum medical coverage and inversely proportional to the deductible of the plan chosen.
- Region of coverage: Travel insurance depends on the coverage region. The cost for visitor health insurance for the United States is most expensive.
- Duration of travel insurance: The longer the duration of visitor medical insurance required, the higher will be the cost.
There are several travel insurance plans available that costs less, however travelers should look at getting the best protection with comprehensive coverage. It’s definitely costs a bit more, but it’s worth the buy if there is a requirement due to a medical or travel mishap.
4. What type of travel insurance do I need for the US?
Visitors from the UK to the USA should ensure that they purchase purchase a visitors medical insurance cover that covers all medical and travel emergencies that one may face in the US. Visitors can either choose a single trip policy or annual trip policy if there are multiple trips in a year.
It is recommended that UK travelers should have at least $1 million of medical cover when travelling to the USA, the medical maximum available for travellers does decrease with age. Ensure that you get maximum coverage for the trip in case anything happens and need assistance in the US.
5. Can I get a US travel insurance if I am pregnant?
Traveling to the US while pregnant need complete coverage, however maternity itself will not be covered by a regular US travel insurance plan, as it will be considered an existing medical situation. The best options for maternity related international travel is available at - UK travelers can compare the different travel insurance options available on American Visitor Insurance and buy the plan that fits the travel needs well.
6. What happens if a British citizen goes to hospital in America?
If a British citizen goes to a hospital in the U.S., emergency care will be provided, but non-emergency treatment may require upfront payment or proof of insurance. Medical costs can be extremely high, and without travel insurance, the patient may face significant expenses. Hospitals will request insurance details or payment before treatment. Some insurers offer direct billing, while others require out-of-pocket payment with later reimbursement. Having best travel insurance to USA from UK is essential to avoid financial risks.
7. Are there any laws that international travelers should know while travelling to the US?
US laws do vary for each individual state, however most rules are common across all 50 states in the country. In the event of any emergency, you should call 911. Travelers can find more details on USA LOCAL Laws.
8. Whom should I contact if I need a legal help in the US?
Travelers can contact the nearest Consulate should anyone need legal help during the travel in the US. Although they can only provide you the details where one can find a local lawyer who can help legally in the US.
9. How can one contact the British Embassy?
Embassies and consulates for British nationals can be found in main cities across the US. They can be contacted over the phone from city in the US. To find the nearest Embassy-check here: www.gov.uk/world/usa
10. Can I get assistance if I need medical treatment while in the US?
Yes, all travel insurance that we offer have access to the 24-hour emergency assistance team. This information will be available in the plan documents, hence there is always someone to help you in case if you become ill or are injured while abroad.
11. What is covered in travel insurance USA from UK?
There is a range of travel insurance to USA from UK with various choices depending on the kind of coverage required for the trip. A standard travel insurance cover will include:
- Any new sickness or injury that occurs during the trip after the start of the policy.
- Accidents or illness occurred during the trip.
- Medical emergencies and medical evacuation.
- Cover for hospital treatment ,doctor expenses and prescribed drugs.
- Some plans cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
- Dental emergencies (again offered by some insurance plans)
12. Can I get one policy covering my entire family?
Yes, there are family travels insurance covers that provide coverage for you, your partner and children up to a certain age.
13. Are pre-existing conditions covered by travel health insurance for UK visitors to the USA?
Pre-existing conditions may not always be covered under travel health insurance policies. Some insurers may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, while others may offer coverage with certain limitations or after a waiting period. UK travelers can compare US travel insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage on American Visitor Insurance
14. How long does travel health insurance coverage last for UK visitors to the USA?
The duration of travel health insurance coverage for UK visitors to the USA varies depending on the policy. It can range from a few days to several months, depending on the length of the visitor's stay. It is essential to select a policy that provides coverage for the entire duration of the trip.
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