Best Health Insurance for B1/B2 Visa Holders
The best B1/B2 visa insurance for US visitors provides coverage for emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and eligible pre-existing conditions. Plans start at less than $1/day and offer up to $8 million in coverage, for travelers of all ages and nationalities.
Health insurance from your home country does not cover medical expenses in the USA, and a single ER visit can cost thousands of dollars. Compare top-rated B1/B2 visa insurance plans by coverage, price, and pre-existing condition benefits, then get a personalized quote in under 30 seconds.
Which Travel Insurance for USA is Right for You?
Prices vary based on age, travel duration, and selected coverage.
What Is a B1/B2 Visa and Why Do You Need Health Insurance?
The B1 and B2 visas are non-immigrant visitor visas issued by the United States to foreign nationals traveling temporarily for business or tourism.
Business Visitor
The B-1 visa is for people visiting the U.S. for short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, participating in conferences, negotiating contracts, or consulting with business associates. It does not permit employment or long-term work in the US.
- Your employer may require you to have health insurance.
- Business activities, such as conferences and site visits, may increase the risk of illness or injury.
- Traveling to multiple US cities can increase your exposure to unexpected medical situations.
- Medical expenses may be reimbursable as a business expense, depending on your employer's policy.
Tourist / Leisure Visitor
The B-2 visa is for travelers visiting the United States for tourism, vacations, visiting friends or family, or receiving medical treatment. It is one of the most commonly issued US visitor visas.
- You are generally responsible for your own medical expenses, as there is no employer-sponsored coverage.
- Leisure activities such as hiking, sightseeing, sports, and driving can increase the risk of accidents.
- Longer visits, often up to six months, may require extended travel medical coverage.
- If you are visiting family, you may also need adequate coverage while assisting elderly relatives or participating in family activities.
Many travelers hold a combined B-1/B-2 visa, which allows visits to the United States for both business and leisure on a single trip. Whether your visa is combined or single-purpose, choosing a plan with at least $100,000 in medical coverage and benefits for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions is recommended. Compare top-rated B1 B2 health insurance plans to find the coverage that best fits your trip.
Who Needs U.S. Tourist Visa Health Insurance?
Visitors who should consider USA visitor visa insurance coverage include:
International tourists and leisure travelers visiting the United States.
Visitors traveling to meet friends and family members in the USA.
Travelers attending events, conferences, or short-term courses in the US.
Visitors staying longer under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA).
Who Can Visit the USA Without a B1/B2 Visa?
Not all travelers need a B1/B2 visa to visit the United States.
Citizens of countries like Canada and Bermuda generally do not require a tourist visa for short visits.
Additionally, travelers from eligible countries can visit the U.S. without a visa through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows visitors to travel for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a B1/B2 visa.
To qualify for the Visa Waiver Program:
- You must be a citizen of an approved VWP country
- Your stay must be 90 days or less
- You must obtain authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before travel
Travelers using ESTA should still consider buying travel insurance for B1 B2 visa, as U.S. healthcare costs are high and not covered under the program.
How Does Health Insurance for Visitors to the USA Offer Coverage?
Traveling to the United States requires careful preparation, and it is essential for B1/B2 visa holders to buy best visitor health insurance before their trip. Since healthcare costs in the U.S. are extremely high, having tourist visa health insurance protects travelers from unexpected medical emergencies, accidents, or illnesses during their stay.
Domestic health insurance from one's home country often provides limited or no coverage abroad, making a U.S. visitor medical insurance plan the most reliable option. Health insurance for tourists in USA plans cover medical expenses such as hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and emergency medical evacuation.
Most visitor insurance plans also provide cashless treatment within network hospitals in the U.S., ensuring peace of mind and financial protection throughout your journey. By purchasing the best health insurance for B1/B2 visa holders, travelers can enjoy a safe, worry-free visit to the United States
What Does Travel Medical Insurance for B1/B2 Visa Cover?
Travel medical insurance for B1/B2 visa holders provides comprehensive coverage for unexpected medical and travel-related emergencies during your stay in the United States. Key coverage include:
Covers medical expenses for illness, injuries, surgeries, and hospital stays.
Includes consultations, minor treatment for sudden sickness or injury and outpatient services.
Pays for eligible doctor-prescribed medicines.
Some plans cover sudden and unexpected flare-ups of pre-existing conditions, subject to policy limits.
Covers transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility in emergencies.
Covers costs of returning remains to the home country.
Access to Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) networks allows negotiated rates and often cashless treatment, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Having the best health insurance for B1 B2 visa holders through American Visitor Insurance ensures peace of mind and financial security, allowing visitors to focus on their trip without worrying about unexpected medical bills.
How to Buy the Best Health Insurance for B1/B2 Visa Holders Online?
Several reputed insurance providers offer health insurance for tourists in the USA designed for travelers visiting the United States. Comparing plans side by side is the easiest way to choose the right policy based on your travel duration, medical needs, and budget. Follow these simple steps to purchase the best B1 visa health insurance:
Most visitor medical insurance plans can be purchased before you depart or after you arrive in the USA. However, buying coverage before your trip ensures protection from the day you travel.
How to buy medical insurance for US travel »How Much Does B2 Tourist Visa Health Insurance Cost in the USA?
- 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.
- Prices usually double for someone in their 60s, and increase further for older travelers.
For younger travelers, there are cheap travel insurance plans at less than a dollar a day.
How Much Does the Cheapest Visitors Insurance for USA Cost?
The most affordable visitor health insurance the USA starts from $20 per month with options up to $191 per month.
The average cost of fixed benefit visitor travel insurance for the USA is calculated based on one-month quotes.
| Plan Name | Max Coverage | Deductible | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels Advantage Trawick International |
$25,000 - $150,000 | $0 | $20 - $58 | $39 - $102 | $60 - $166 |
| Visitors Care IMG |
$25,000 - $100,000 | $100 | $25 - $47 | $40 - $75 | $66 - $152 |
| Safe Travels Elite Trawick International |
$25,000 - $175,000 | $0 | $26 - $76 | $50 - $134 | $109 - $155 |
| Visit USA Budget Travel Insurance Services |
$50,000 - $150,000 | $250 | $32 - $56 | $49 - $86 | $84 |
| VisitorSecure WorldTrips |
$50,000 - $130,000 | $100 | $34 - $62 | $55 - $76 | $96 - $139 |
| Travel Medical USA Visitor Basic Seven Corners |
$50,000 - $150,000 | $100 | $42 - $52 | $79 - $94 | $173 - $191 |
How Much Does Comprehensive Visitor Insurance Cost for the USA?
The best travel insurance cost for the USA ranges from $58 to $353 per month.
The average cost of comprehensive travel insurance for the USA is based on one-month quotes with a $250 deductible.
| Plan name | Max Coverage | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas Essential WorldTrips |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $58 - $109 | $131 - $266 | $263 - $328 |
| Safe Travels USA Cost Saver Trawick International |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $71 - $117 | $139 - $250 | $237 - $299 |
| Patriot America Lite IMG |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $72 - $130 | $153 - $289 | $252 - $337 |
| Atlas America WorldTrips |
$50,000 - $2,000,000 | $78 - $154 | $177 - $378 | $355 - $444 |
| Patriot America Plus IMG |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $77 - $139 | $164 - $311 | $287 - $434 |
| Travel Medical Basic Seven Corners |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $80 - $138 | $167 - $314 | $252 - $337 |
| Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Trawick International |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $90 - $168 | $172 - $351 | $294 - $470 |
| SafeVista Protect INF Insurance |
$100,000 - $1,000,000 | $93 - $127 | $215 - $248 | $320 |
| Diplomat America Global Underwriters |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $125 - $214 | $229 - $301 | $353 |
Prices verified for the 2026 travel season · Source: American Visitor Insurance®
Six-Month Medical Insurance Cost for Visitors to the USA
For a 60 year old traveler, the cost of USA visitor insurance for 6 months typically ranges around $122 to $1,050, based on different coverage options, medical needs, and traveler’s budget on American Visitor Insurance.
The best 6 month USA travel insurance is the one which is affordable, reliable and allows the traveler to stay stress free.
From ER visits to urgent care, stay covered for 6 months in the U.S. starting from just $1.50/day!
What Affects the Cost of B2 Visa Health Insurance?
The cost of B1 B2 health insurance depends on several factors:
How Much Does a Medical Emergency Cost in the USA?
Healthcare in the United States is extremely expensive, and even minor treatments can lead to high bills without insurance.
Even a simple illness or accident can result in thousands of dollars in medical bills.
With USA medical insurance for visitors you are usually responsible only for your deductible and a small coinsurance amount, while the insurance covers the remaining eligible expenses and helps cover these unexpected costs and protects you from financial stress during your trip.
| Medical Service | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Emergency Room (ER) Visit | $2,000 - $5,000+ |
| Hospital Stay (per day) | $3,000 - $10,000+ |
| Surgery (Minor to Major) | $25,000 - $75,000+ |
| ICU Care | $100,000+ |
| Heart Attack Treatment | $25,000 - $50,000+ |
| Doctor Visit | $200 - $400 |
| Diagnostic Tests (MRI/CT Scan) | $1,500 - $5,000 |
What Happens If You Get Sick Without Visitor Insurance in the USA?
Visitors to the United States are not eligible for Medicaid, Medicare, or other government-funded healthcare programs. Without visitor insurance, you are responsible for paying 100% of your medical expenses.
- You will receive the medical bill directly. US hospitals typically bill uninsured patients at standard rates, which are often much higher than negotiated insurance rates.
- Your sponsor may be financially responsible. If someone signed an I-134 Affidavit of Support for your visit, they could be held responsible for unpaid medical bills in certain situations.
- Unpaid medical bills may be sent to collections. Depending on your home country's laws and agreements, debt collection agencies may attempt to recover unpaid balances.
- Future visa applications could be affected. Outstanding financial obligations in the US may be considered during future visa or immigration reviews.
If you need help filing a claim or understanding your policy, contact American Visitor Insurance at 877-340-7910, or visit our visitor insurance claims guide for step-by-step help.
Top Travel Insurance for B1 B2 Visa (2026)
Based on price, coverage limits, and traveler reviews, the following are the health insurance for tourists in USA.
- check_circle Deductible: $0 only (no higher deductible options)
- check_circle Maximum coverage: up to $150,000
- check_circle Pre-existing: acute onset covered up to age 89
- check_circle PPO network: First Health PPO - direct billing available
- check_circle Evacuation: unlimited emergency medical evacuation
- Visitors Care from IMG
- Visit USA Budget from Travel Insurance Services
- Travel Medical USA Visitor Basic from Seven Corners
- check_circle Deductible: $0 to $5,000
- check_circle Maximum coverage: up to $2,000,000
- check_circle Pre-existing conditions: acute onset covered up to age 80
- check_circle PPO network: UnitedHealthcare - the largest PPO network
- check_circle Maternity: covers complications of pregnancy in first 26 weeks
- Patriot America Plus from IMG
- Travel Medical Basic from Seven Corners
- Safe Travels USA Comprehensive from Trawick International
Additional Top Travel Insurance Plans for Visitors to the USA
- Patriot America Lite : Cheap short-term health insurance plan for visitors to the US. Offers coverage for emergency medical treatment and medical evacuation, with limits up to $1,000,000.
warningDoes not include COVID coverage or acute onset of pre-existing conditions. - Travel Medical Basic : Affordable coverage for emergency medical treatment and evacuation during short-term travel to the US. Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions for visitors under 80 years.
check_circle Includes COVID coverage and is recommended for group travelers.
Select the Visitor Insurance Plans That You Want to Compare
How Can I Choose the Best Health Insurance for Visitors to USA?
When choosing the best health insurance for B2 visa holders, it is important to compare options based on your travel needs, health risks, and budget. Here are the key factors to consider:
Coverage Amount (Policy Maximum)
The policy maximum is the total amount your insurance will pay for medical expenses during your trip.
- A minimum of $100,000 to $250,000 is recommended due to high healthcare costs in the U.S.
- Travelers with longer stays or older travelers with high health risk should consider $500,000 or more
Deductible
The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance starts covering expenses.
Higher Deductible → Lower Premium
Higher out-of-pocket costs when you file a claim
Lower Deductible → Higher Premium
Less financial burden during claims
Comprehensive vs Fixed Benefit US Visitor Insurance Plans
Visitor insurance plans generally fall into two categories:
Pay a limited, predefined amount for each medical service
Cover a percentage (often 75%–100%) of eligible medical expenses up to the policy maximum
Duration of Coverage
Your B1/B2 health insurance plan should cover your entire stay in the U.S.
- Claims are only valid within the policy period
- If you extend your stay, you may need to extend your policy or purchase a new plan
PPO Network (Preferred Provider Organization)
Choosing a plan with a strong PPO network is very important. Top rated comprehensive US travel insurance plans such as Patriot America Plus B1 B2, Atlas America insurance B2 visa and Safe Travels USA Comprehensive available on American Visitor Insurance use large PPO networks like UnitedHealthcare and First Health, giving travelers access to extensive hospital and doctor networks across the United States.
In-network providers
Lower costs and possible cashless treatment
Out-of-network providers
You may need to pay upfront and request reimbursement
Benefits of travel health insurance with PPO networks:
Review Acute onset of pre-existing conditions coverage: If you have existing health conditions, choose medical insurance for tourists in USA plans that cover acute onset, especially important for seniors and parents visiting the USA.
Why This Matters?
The right medical insurance for travel to USA plan on American Visitor Insurance helps you avoid high medical bills and ensures access to quality healthcare during your visit. Comparing plans based on these factors will help you choose the best USA visitor visa insurance for your needs.
Health Insurance for Parents Visiting the USA on a B2 Visa
If your parents are visiting the United States on a B2 tourist visa, having the right visitor insurance for parents is essential. Older travelers are more likely to need medical care, and healthcare costs in the USA can be extremely expensive.
How to Choose the Right Plan
- Pre-existing conditions: Most plans cover the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, while some specialized plans offer broader coverage.
- Coverage amount: For parents aged 60 and older, consider plans with $150,000 - $250,000 in medical coverage.
- Coverage duration: Since B2 visa holders can stay in the USA for up to 6 months, choose a plan that covers the entire visit and allows extensions if needed.
- Provider network: Choose a plan with a large PPO network, such as UnitedHealthcare or First Health ppo network, to reduce out-of-pocket costs when treated by in-network providers.
What Is the Best Seniors Travel Insurance With Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage
Finding the best travel insurance for seniors with pre-existing medical conditions can be challenging. Many insurers exclude chronic illnesses or restrict coverage for travelers over 70. However, some specialized plans now offer limited or comprehensive coverage giving senior travelers peace of mind while visiting the USA or other countries.
Another important term is “acute onset of a pre-existing condition”. It is a sudden relapse of the pre-existing condition without advance warning which requires medical attention within 24 hours. Most policies that cover “acute onset” do not cover routine treatment or chronic management.
Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions often struggle to find affordable, comprehensive insurance coverage. Pre-existing medical coverage eligibility varies based on several critical factors:
What Are the Different Types of Visitor Health Insurance for Foreigners in USA?
There are broadly two types of visitors health insurance that a traveler can choose based on their travel requirements.
Choosing between these options depends on factors such as age, trip duration, destination, and whether coverage for pre-existing conditions is required. To understand which type of coverage is suitable for your visit, explore our page on Best Health Insurance for Foreigners in the United States.
Visitor Insurance Reviews
Reviews and experiences from verified travelers
"Your customer service was outstanding and helped me find the perfect plan for my visit to the USA. The agent was very polite, answered all my questions clearly, and made the whole process simple. I am fully satisfied with the coverage I got. Thank you so much!"
"I wasn't expecting an update so soon! Thank you so much for getting back to me this promptly. I aim to complete the application process by tomorrow evening, and look forward to receiving the email regarding the compliance form."
"Thank you for such helpful information. You've impressed me as I have contacted other companies and haven't gotten half of the information from them that you have sent me. I will take what you've said into consideration and hope to be in touch soon."
How to File a Claim for Your Visitor Visa Insurance?
Understanding how your visitor medical insurance works before you need it can make the claims process much easier if you experience a medical emergency during your stay in the United States.
How to file a claim:
- Find an in-network provider. Use your insurer's provider directory or call the 24/7 assistance number on your ID card.
- Show your insurance ID card. Many providers can coordinate billing directly with the insurer when applicable.
- Keep all medical records and receipts. Save invoices, prescriptions, and discharge papers for any treatment you receive.
- Contact your insurer if you are admitted to the hospital or require surgery. Prior authorization may be needed for certain services.
If you need help filing a claim or understanding your policy, contact American Visitor Insurance at 877-340-7910, or visit our visitor insurance claims guide for step-by-step help.
Can I Extend B1/B2 Visa Insurance If My Stay Is Extended?
Yes. If your stay in the United States is extended, you should also extend your B1/B2 visa insurance to avoid a gap in coverage. Most visitor insurance plans allow extensions if you request them before your policy expires.
How to Extend Your Visitor Insurance
- Check your plan's extension eligibility before your current policy ends.
- Contact your insurer to request an extension. If approved, your coverage typically continues without interruption.
- Renew your visitor insurance before your policy expires. If your plan cannot be extended or your coverage lapses, you'll need to purchase a new policy, and certain benefits, including coverage for pre-existing conditions, may be subject to a new waiting period.
Best Medical Insurance for Visitors to USA FAQs
B1 (business) and B2 (tourist) visa holders are responsible for their own medical expenses. Without insurance, even a routine doctor visit or emergency treatment can be very expensive.
Visitor medical insurance for tourists in USA helps cover:
- Hospitalization and emergency care
- Doctor visits and urgent care
- Medical evacuation and unexpected illnesses
Still have questions? Our Customer Success Team will be happy to assist you. You can also contact us at (877)-340-7910 for quick support.
The insured receive medical care and assistance for unexpected medical and travel events while travelling overseas. Visitor health insurance is available for all categories of the travelers like for vacationers, business men, Students, short visits and annual multi-trips depending on the duration of the stay and the visa type of the traveler.
- Travelling to a new country, and trying new cuisines, jetlag and different lifestyles can be risky. Sometimes even with full planning there is always a chance for travel or medical mishaps, accidents, injuries or illness. These unexpected events can happen to anyone and at any age, but older travelers are particularly vulnerable. Given these risks, it is important to include the best US visitor insurance while traveling there.
- . The US does not offer free medical treatment to its visitors. Nor the domestic health Insurance cover from the home country will provide little or no coverage for any medical treatment in the US. In the US each one is responsible to pay for themselves for all healthcare costs. Visitors to the US need to pay on their own either through a travel insurance cover or from their pocket for any unexpected illness or injury.
- The high cost of healthcare in the US makes it vital for travelers to have good travel health insurance while traveling to the US. A smallest diagnosis and a basic treatment for medical conditions like upper respiratory infections can leave the traveler with a huge bill. If there is a need for an emergency evacuation or surgery then the cost is extremely high and can leave the traveler in a huge financial burden.
- Even though it’s not mandatory to include travel insurance for a trip to the US. By including travel insurance, travelers can be rest assured that even if any emergency healthcare is required, it is taken care of by the US visitor insurance cover.
The sponsor is therefore considered responsible for any living and healthcare expenses of the visa applicant while in the United States. In the event that the visa holder needs healthcare services, the healthcare provider can hold the sponsor who provided the I-134 form, ie 'Affidavit of Support' responsible for any medical bills that are not paid by the sponsored visa holder. Given this risk and the high US healthcare costs, it is important that the sponsor ensures that the visa applicant has good medical insurance coverage as long as the I-134 Affidavit of support is valid. At American visitor insurance, we have US travel health insurance and student medical insurance options which are applicable for these visa applicants.
Any medical issue that occurs before the policy starts will not be covered, so it is generally recommended to purchase your plan before traveling.
To know more about buying travel insurance after arrival in the U.S., you can read this guide on American Visitor Insurance.
These plans may include coverage for eligible medical expenses related to pre-existing conditions, but benefits vary depending on the specific INF plan selected.
What Are the Different USA Visa Health Insurance?
J1 visa insurance for exchange scholars in educational/cultural exchange programs.
Know More →Health insurance for fiancé(e) who marry U.S. citizens.
Know More →H1B visa insurance for skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations.
Know More →H4 visa insurance for dependents of H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders.
Know More →TN visa health insurance for Canadian and Mexican professionals working in the U.S.
Know More →Find the Best Coverage for Travel Insurance
Buy US Medical travel insurance different covered medical expenses.
Read More →Compare quotes online for best tourist visa health insurance USA.
Read More →Medical Insurance for Visitors to USA Information
International travel insurance resources for USA visa holders.
Read More →Trip insurance claims process for getting medical care.
Read More →USA Tourist Visa Insurance
Need Health Insurance for Your B1/B2 Visa?
Compare the best travel health insurance for B1/B2 visa and get covered in minutes.
Which Are the Best Travel Insurance Companies in USA?
You can find reliable U.S. travel insurance providers through American Visitor Insurance, including International Medical Group (IMG), Seven Corners, WorldTrips, Global Underwriters, Travel Insurance Services, Trawick International, and INF Insurance.