✅ What Is J-2 Visa Health Insurance?
J-2 Visa Insurance is health coverage required for dependents (spouse or children) of J-1 Exchange Visitors in the U.S. It protects J-2 family members from high medical costs during their stay, covering emergencies, injuries, illness treatment, and mandatory evacuation and repatriation benefits.
The U.S. Department of State requires J-1 and J-2 visa holders to maintain valid medical insurance for the entire program duration.
Medical Insurance for Spouse and Dependents of J1 Visa Holders
The J1 Visa program allows scholars to contribute knowledge and experience to U.S. institutions. While J1 scholars must have J1 Visa medical insurance, many also need coverage for their spouses and dependent children.
American Visitor Insurance helps J1 scholars and their families find reliable, affordable insurance plans to meet U.S. visa requirements and provide peace of mind during their stay.
Most J1 Visa insurance plans require the scholar as the primary policyholder. However, the Patriot Exchange Plan by International Medical Group (IMG) allows J2 spouses and dependent children to be primary insureds.
This cost-effective plan offers strong benefits and is widely recommended for J1 families.
Key benefits include:
- Low $5 copay at institution health centers instead of $100 deductible.
- Coverage for sudden illness and accidents at any hospital or doctor.
- No pre-existing condition coverage or maternity coverage (common limitation in scholar/student plans).
As of May 15, 2015, J1/J2 Visa insurance requirements increased the maximum coverage from $50,000 to $100,000. Patriot Exchange plan holders can upgrade to meet the $100,000 limit by paying only the difference for the remainder of the plan. Contact our experts for assistance.
American Visitor Insurance ensures that visiting scholars and their families have sufficient coverage for their stay in the U.S., offering protection, peace of mind, and compliance with visa rules.
For groups of J1 Visa holders sponsored by the same organization, travelers can apply for J1 Visa group insurance, which covers all members under one plan.
🧑 What Are The J2 Visa Health Insurance Requirements?
You should consider buying J-2 health insurance in the USA from American Visitor Insurance if you are:
- A spouse of a J-1 exchange visitor
- A child or dependent of a J-1 visa holder
- Living in the U.S. for study, research, or cultural exchange
- Not covered under a U.S.-based domestic insurance plan
- Looking for temporary or long-term health insurance coverage in the U.S.
- Any J-2 family member participating in school or childcare activities
- J-2 dependents staying longer than the J-1 in the U.S.
- If you are on a J-2 visa, you must carry health insurance from the day you enter the USA until your J-2 status ends
Even though U.S. law does not always require J-2 dependents to carry insurance, it is strongly recommended for financial and immigration safety.
💡 Why J-2 Insurance Is Essential?
Medical care in the U.S. is extremely expensive:
- ER visit: $2,000–$5,000,
- Hospital stay: $10,000 per day
- Surgery: $30,000–$100,000+
- Medical evacuation: $25,000–$100,000
J-2 insurance prevents financial risk and satisfies visa requirements.
🛡 What Does J2 Visa Medical Insurance Cover?
J2 visa health insurance provides medical coverage for dependents of J1 visa holders while they are in the United States. Coverage typically includes:
✔ Medical Benefits
- Doctor visits
- Specialist consultations
- Emergency room care
- Hospitalization & surgeries
- Urgent care
- X-rays & diagnostic tests
- Prescription medications
✔ Additional Benefits
- Telemedicine
- Travel assistance services
- Accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D)
- Limited maternity coverage
- Mental health care
- Preventive care
- Coverage for certain pre-existing conditions (if the plan allows)
✔ J-Visa-Required Benefits
- Medical evacuation (to home country)
- Repatriation of remains
⚠️ What J2 Insurance Usually Does Not Cover?
- Routine dental or vision care (unless specifically added)
- Elective cosmetic procedures
- Long-term care or ongoing treatment for chronic conditions
- Some pre-existing conditions (depends on the plan)
Summary : J2 insurance ensures that J2 dependents are protected against unexpected medical costs while in the U.S., including hospitalization, emergency treatment, and medical evacuation. Coverage may vary by plan, so always check the policy details.
🛡 Does j2 health insurance Cover Maternity?
Some J2 visa insurance plans offer maternity coverage, but it is not included in most basic plans.
Maternity coverage may apply only if:
- You join the plan before becoming pregnant
- You complete a waiting period (usually 9–10 months)
- The plan specifically lists maternity as a covered benefit
Most low-cost plans will only cover complications of pregnancy, not regular prenatal care or delivery.
💡 Tip : If you are planning a pregnancy in the U.S., choose a comprehensive J2 insurance plan that includes maternity benefits from the beginning.
🛡 What to Check Before Choosing a J2 Insurance Plan?
Before purchasing any J2 health insurance in the USA, check the following:
- Total policy coverage amount (e.g. $50,000 – $1,000,000)
- Deductible amount ($0 – $5,000)
- Does it cover pre-existing conditions?
- Is maternity or mental health included?
- In-network vs out-of-network benefits
- Waiting periods and exclusions
- Renewability of the plan
- Provider network (PPO / United Healthcare etc.)
At American Visitor Insurance, our experts can guide you for free to help choose the right plan.
🛡 Can J-2 Dependents Be the Primary Applicant?
Yes. With American Visitor Insurance, J-2 dependents can be the primary insured person on a policy.
The J-1 visa holder:
- Does not have to be on the same plan
- Does not need to be the primary applicant
You can choose:
This makes it flexible and affordable for every family.
Can a J-2 buy separate insurance?
Yes, a J-2 can have their own, separate Patriot Exchange Health Insurance plan, as long as it meets (or exceeds) the sponsor’s requirements. They do not have to be on the J-1’s policy, but the J-1 must still maintain valid insurance.
How Much Does J2 Visa Insurance Cost?
The cost of J2 visa insurance starts from $30 per month and goes up to $730 per month. The cost is dependent on the age of the J2 dependent, the plan maximum and the deductible. The key factors that affect the cost include:
How much does it cost for a J2 visa insurance?
| Plan Name |
Max Coverage |
Deductible |
18 – 24 Years |
25 – 30 Years |
31 – 40 Years |
| Student Journey Lite |
$150,000 |
$100 |
$30 |
$96 |
$96 |
| Student Secure Smart |
$200,000 |
$0 |
$32 |
$67 |
$167 |
| Student Journey Plus |
$300,000 |
$100 |
$48 |
$195 |
$195 |
| Student Secure Budget |
$500,000 |
$0 |
$53 |
$100 |
$236 |
| Patriot America Plus |
$100,000 |
$0 |
$60 |
$99 |
$118 |
| Patriot Exchange Program |
$100,000 |
$250 |
$65 |
$85 |
$85 |
| Student Journey Platinum |
$500,000 |
$250 |
$74 |
$116 |
$293 |
| Diplomat America |
$100,000 |
$0 |
$109 |
$147 |
$187 |
| Student Health Advantage Standard |
$500,000 |
$250 |
$115 |
$135 |
$243 |
| Student Secure Select |
$1,000,000 |
$0 |
$106 |
$240 |
$538 |
| Student Health Advantage Platinum |
$1,000,000 |
$100 |
$353 |
$408 |
$730 |
This table gives the average J visa health insurance cost for different ages. Source: American Visitor Insurance®
Which are the Best Health Insurance for J2 Visa Holders?
Patriot Exchange Program IMG
- Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
- Pre-existing condition: Comprehensive plan with high medical maximum and pre-existing conditions coverage after 12 months of waiting period.
- Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
- Direct Billing: First healthcare network
or United HealthCare 
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months.
- Patriot Exchange Program insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from $65 per month ($1018 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.
Policy maximum?
$1,00,000 to $5,00,000
Deductible options?
$0 to $500
Period of coverage?
1 month up to 12 months
Patriot America Plus IMG
- Ideal for: J1/j2 visa holders
- Pre-existing condition: Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions for travelers below age 70
- Direct Billing: First healthcare or United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months.
- Patriot America Plus insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from $60 per month ($931 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.
Policy maximum?
$1,00,000 to $1,000,000
Deductible options?
$0 to $2,500
Period of coverage?
5 days up to 12 months
Student Journey Platinum IMG
- Ideal for : J1, F1, A1 and M1 visas, Adventure Sports, Maternity
- Pre-existing condition: Covers after 6 months of waiting period
- Mental health: Out Patient : Max 40 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to 30 days max
- Direct Billing: United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 12 months.
- Student Journey Platinum insurance cost for a 35 years old J-2 visa holder starts from $293 per month ($3,516 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.
StudentSecure Select Worldtrips
- Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
- Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
- Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 30 visits, Inpatient: Max 30 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
- Direct Billing: United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
- Student Secure Select insurance cost for a 35 years old J-2 visa applicant starts from $538 per month ($6336 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.
Policy maximum?
$1,000,000
Deductible options?
$0
Period of coverage?
30 days to 364 days
Student Health Advantage Standard IMG
- Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
- Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
- Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
- Direct Billing: First healthcare network or United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
- Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from 243 per month ($2916 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available. Offers high policy maximum and good coverage for various medical emergencies.
StudentSecure Elite Worldtrips
- Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
- Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
- Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 40 visits, Inpatient: Max 40 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
- Direct Billing: United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
- Student Secure Elite insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from $805 per month ($9479 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.
Policy maximum?
$5,000,000
Deductible options?
$0
Period of coverage?
30 days to 364 days
Patriot America Plus IMG
- Ideal for: J1 scholars and J2 dependents visiting the United States, including spouses and children
- Pre-existing condition: Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition for under 70 years is covered up to maximum limit
- Direct Billing: First healthcare network or United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be extended up to 24 months.
- Patriot America Plus insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from $99 per month ($1163 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available.
Policy maximum?
$1,00,000 to $1,000,000
Deductible options?
$0 to $2,500
Period of coverage?
5 days up to 12 months
Student Health Advantage Platinum IMG
- Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports, Maternity
- Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
- Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
- Direct Billing: First healthcare network or United HealthCare
- Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
- Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from $730 per month ($8760 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available.
Policy maximum?
$1,000,000
Deductible options?
$100
Period of coverage?
1 month up to 12 months
Diplomat America Global Underwriters
- Ideal for: J-1 and J-2 visa holders, dependents, international visitors, scholars, researchers, and families needing comprehensive medical coverage in the U.S.
- Pre-existing condition: Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions: Covered up to the selected policy maximum for individuals aged 70 and under.
- Mental health: Unavailable
- Renewal: No
- Diplomat America insurance cost for a 35 years old J2 visa applicant starts from $129 per month ($1523 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available.
Policy maximum?
$1,00,000 to $1,000,000
Deductible options?
$0 to $5,000
Period of coverage?
5 days up to 12 months
⭐ J-2 Visa Health Insurance Plan Comparison
Compare top J-2 visa eligible plans side by side and choose the best coverage for your stay in the USA.
| Feature |
Patriot Exchange |
Student Health Advantage |
Diplomat America |
Student Secure
Popular
|
| Eligible for J-2? |
✔ Yes |
✔ Yes |
✔ Yes |
✔ Yes |
| J-2 Can Be Primary? |
✔ Often allowed |
✔ Allowed |
✔ Allowed |
✔ Allowed |
| Meets DoS Requirements? |
✔ Yes |
✔ Yes |
✔ Yes |
✔ Yes |
| Ideal For |
F1 & J1 students visa holders |
F1 & J1 students visa holders |
Short term coverage for Green card holders |
Meets J-1 visa requirements |
| Coverage Highlights |
Emergency care, hospital, doctor visits, evacuation, repatriation
|
Comprehensive hospital & evacuation coverage
|
Accident & illness, evacuation, repatriation
|
Full medical + optional maternity, evacuation, repatriation
|
| Typical Deductible |
$0, $100, $250, $500 |
$250 |
$0, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1000, $2500, $5000. |
$0 |
| Approx. Price (per month) |
$56 to $85 |
$95 to $766 |
$63 to $353 |
$32 to $167 |
|
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|
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|
💡 Tip: At American Visitor Insurance, you can compare multiple J-2 plans, view full coverage details, and get an instant quote online.
Why Choose American Visitor Insurance?
With American Visitor Insurance, you get:
- Plans from trusted U.S. insurance companies
- 24/7 customer support
- Easy online comparison tool
- Instant policy confirmation
- Competitive pricing
- Assistance in claims + renewals
We have helped thousands of J-1 and J-2 visa holders get the right protection while living in the U.S.
Does J-2 Visa Insurance Meet All U.S. Coverage Requirements?
Key limitations
- Coverage usually excludes pre-existing conditions.
- Deductibles and coinsurance may lead to out-of-pocket costs.
- Coverage typically matches the J1 program duration.
- Provider networks may be limited; pre-authorization may be required.
- Non-emergency international travel is generally not covered.
Pros & Cons of J2 Insurance
Pros :
- Essential for legal compliance with J1 visa requirements
- Covers unexpected medical emergencies
- Includes evacuation and repatriation
- Some plans offer optional coverage for maternity or pre-existing conditions
Cons :
- Limited coverage for routine care
- Pre-existing conditions often excluded
- Deductibles and copayments may apply
- Coverage ends with the J1 program unless extended
Requirements / Eligibility
- Must be a dependent of a J1 visa holder (spouse or child under 21)
- Insurance must meet minimum Department of State standards:
- At least $100,000 per accident/illness coverage
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Deductible and coinsurance within limits
🛒 How to Buy J-2 Visa Insurance from American Visitor Insurance
Purchasing J-2 visa health insurance for dependents with American Visitor Insurance is fast, simple, and can be completed entirely online. Just follow these easy steps:
Step 1 – Compare J-2 Insurance Plans
- Maximum coverage limits
- Deductibles and copayments
- Coverage exclusions (maternity, pre-existing, mental health)
- Emergency evacuation & repatriation benefits
Use our comparison tables to choose the best plan for your family.
Step 2 – Provide Basic Information
- Name, DOB & country of citizenship
- Passport details
- U.S destination & ZIP code
- Coverage start / end dates
✅ No medical exam required for most short-term plans
Step 3 – Choose Your Coverage
- Deductible ($0 – $5,000)
- Optional benefits (AD&D, dental)
- Review exclusions & benefit limits
- Ensure DOS compliance
Step 4 – Enroll and Pay
- Pay online with credit / debit card
- Instant email confirmation
- Download certificate + policy documents
- Get emergency contact details
Step 5 – Start Using Your Insurance
Coverage can begin immediately or on a future date (such as your U.S. arrival).
Keep your insurance card and policy PDF handy for any medical visits or emergencies.
Compare J-2 Insurance Plans Now →
❓ Is the J-1 Required to Be “Primary” and Can a J-2 Be Primary?
✅ The J-1 visa holder must be the “primary” applicant for your J-status record.
❌ A J-2 dependent cannot be the primary.
Who is considered “primary” on a J visa?
- The J-1 holder is always the primary visa holder
- All J-2 dependents (spouse/children) are linked to the J-1’s SEVIS record
- A J-2 cannot exist without an active J-1
Can a J-2 buy separate insurance?
Yes, a J-2 can have their own, separate health insurance plan, as long as it meets (or exceeds) the sponsor’s requirements. They do not have to be on the J-1’s policy, but the J-1 must still maintain valid insurance.
💡 Tip:Even though a J-2 can be insured on a separate policy, the J-1 must remain the primary for visa purposes and must maintain compliant coverage at all times.
🛡️ Why J-2 Dependents Need Strong Health Insurance?
If you are a J-2 dependent (spouse or child) in the U.S., having strong J2 insurance coverage in USA is essential for safety, compliance, and peace of mind. Here’s why:
1️⃣ Healthcare Costs Are High in the U.S.
Even minor medical issues can cost thousands:
- ER visit : $2,000–$5,000
- Hospital stay : $10,000 per day
- Surgery or specialized treatment: $30,000–$100,000+
A strong J2 visitor medical insurance USA plan protects you from unexpected bills and ensures you get quality care without financial stress.
2️⃣ Compliance with J-Visa Requirements
Even minor medical issues can cost thousands:
- Many sponsors and universities require J2 insurance coverage in USA for dependents.
- Many sponsors and universities require J-2 insurance for dependents.
- Coverage must meet Department of State minimum standards.
- Without valid insurance, you risk:
- Visa non-compliance
- Program termination
- Limited access to school or campus services
3️⃣Protecting Your Family
- Children and spouses may attend school, daycare, or travel in the U.S.
- Accidents or sudden illnesses can happen anytime
- Strong coverage ensures:
- Quick access to quality care
- Emergency evacuation if needed
- Peace of mind for parents and family
4️⃣Coverage Beyond Emergencies
A good J2 insurance coverage in USA plan typically includes:
- Doctor visits & specialist consultations
- Hospitalization & surgeries
- Prescription medications
- Emergency medical evacuation & repatriation
- 24/7 U.S.-based customer support
Choosing the best insurance for J2 visa holders ensures your dependents are fully protected during their stay in the United States.
Tip: At American Visitor Insurance, you can compare top J2 visitor medical insurance USA plans, check coverage limits, and find the best insurance for J2 visa holders quickly and easily.
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J-2 Visa Health Insurance - FAQs
Yes. All J-2 dependents must maintain valid health insurance while in the U.S.
Yes. J-2 members can choose different coverage based on their needs.
No. The J-1 holder is always the primary visa holder, but a J-2 dependent can have a separate insurance plan in their name that meets visa requirements.
Most J-2 plans exclude pre-existing conditions, though some may cover acute onset (sudden flare-ups) depending on the policy.
Yes. J-2 dependents can maintain coverage beyond the J-1 program end date by purchasing a stand-alone policy.
- Your J-2 dependent may be non-compliant with sponsor requirements
- Could risk program termination
- May face large out-of-pocket medical expenses
The Department of State views health insurance as very, very important! The regulations require that your J program sponsor should terminate your status in the U.S. as a J Visa holder if you willfully fail to comply with the J Visa insurance requirement.
We have many plans that satisfy J Visa requirements that work for both J1 and J2 Visa holders. Some US health insurance plans require that the J1 Visa holder is the primary applicant for the J2 Visa holder to be eligible.
If the J2 Visa holder alone needs coverage, then the Patriot Exchange plan offered by International Medical Group (IMG) is available. Please find the details of this plan here:
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