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Health Insurance

Minimum Required Health Insurance Coverage
Proof of Valid Health Insurance
Government Sponsored Health Costs
Insurance Companies

U.S. federal regulations require J-1 Exchange Visitors and J-2 dependents to carry health (medical) insurance during the entire length of their program. Willful failure to carry and provide proof of adequate health insurance will be considered to be in violation of federal regulations and subject to termination as an Exchange Visitor participant.

Minimum Required Health Insurance Coverage as per Federal Regulations


  • Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
  • Repatriation of remains (preparation and transportation of remains to home country) in the amount of $7,500
  • Expenses associated with the medical evacuation (transportation to home country when directed by attending physician) of the exchange visitor in the amount of $10,000
  • A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
  • Coverage for pre-existing conditions after a reasonable time period (as per industry standards)
  • Covered benefits must be paid at 75% or more per accident or illness
  • Policy must not unreasonably exclude coverage for perils inherent to the exchange visitor’s program
  • Insurance carrier must have an approval rating that is accepted as per Part 62.14 (c)(1) of Section 22 of the Federal Code of Regulations

Proof of Valid Health Insurance


Health insurance must be purchased for a minimum period of six months or the entire length of program, whichever is longer. The following documents must be submitted to the International Services Center:

Government Sponsored Health Costs and UCF Health Insurance


A health plan backed by the full faith and credit of the government of the exchange visitor’s home country is accepted. Exchange Visitors are required to complete a special form (provided by ISC Advisor) and submit official confirmation of government support.


UCF’s health insurance plans meet the federal requirements except for repatriation and medical evacuation. Exchange Visitors eligible to enroll in these plans will need to purchase a supplemental plan (stand alone repatriation and medical evacuation) to be in compliance with health insurance requirements. UCF insurance plans do not become effective immediately upon Exchange Visitors’ arrival. A short-term alternative plan will need to be purchased from program start date to UCF insurance effective date.

Insurance Companies


Medical costs are significantly higher in the U.S. than in other countries. Although you may purchase the minimum federal required coverage, you are recommended to purchase as much coverage as you can afford. Prior to purchasing a plan, read the benefits and look for exclusions and costs you will be responsible for in the event of an accident or illness. To facilitate your search, below is a list of companies often used by Exchange Visitors:


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