Federal law [22 CFR 62.14] requires that all Exchange Visitors (as well as their accompanying spouses and dependents) have insurance in effect that covers them for sickness and accidents during the time of their participation in the Exchange Visitor Program.
The lack of insurance, or inadequate coverage, may be catastrophic for an individual Exchange Visitor. Therefore, the State Department requires that program participants (and their dependents) have medical insurance coverage with the following minimum benefits:
1. Medical benefits of $100,000 per accident or illness;
2. A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness;
3. Medical evacuation in the amount of $50,000;
4. Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000.
Exchange Visitor’s insurance policy must be in effect upon their arrival in the US, and Proof of Coverage is required at all times while in the U.S. Failure to maintain adequate insurance could result in immediate termination of an Exchange Visitor’s visa status. In addition, Exchange Visitors and any accompanying spouses and/or dependents may also be subject to the requirements of the Affordable Care Act
All J1/J2 program applicants must enroll in an approved health insurance plan before entering the U.S. The current J1 group health insurance rate offered by IER is $1680 per year, and a one-year premium fee is to be paid to IER at the time of enrollment. All Exchange Visitors are required to have the mandatory health insurance upon arrival and maintain the coverage the whole time in the U.S.
IER Group Health Insurance Brochure click here.