🧳 Travel Medical Insurance for U.S. Citizens Living Abroad Visiting the US
Are you a US citizen and living outside the United States? You might be in a conundrum as well as medical insurance coverage when you are visiting the US?
This is because travel insurance plans or health medical insurance plans that are usually meant to cover people traveling outside their home country. In this context, one assumes that US citizens live in the United States.
Therefore we see the brochure has the eligibility wording stating "US citizens traveling outside US" or "Non US citizens coming to the US or any other country"...This sadly excludes US citizens who live overseas and want to visit the US. However as we know well, there are many US citizens who live, work or study overseas.
They visit the US for a short period of time during holidays, Christmas, Thanksgiving, vacation, visiting family and friends…and at the end of the short period of time they go back to the country that they live in. Some travel insurance companies assume that US is the home country for US citizens regardless of where they live.
The insurance plans offered by these companies do not satisfy the need of US citizens visiting the US. In this situation even US domestic health insurance companies do not help as they offer short term insurance only for US residents and for longer time periods like 3 months, 6 months, 1 year or 2 years.
However there are some popular US travel insurance plans that offer best medical insurance for USA citizen visiting to USA for a short term. These plans are available to them as long as they are temporarily visiting US and are returning to their home country outside the US.
At American Visitor Insurance, you can compare top plans for U.S. citizens visiting the USA and choose affordable coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, accidents, and sudden illnesses during your trip
🌟 The Best Travel Insurance for U.S. Citizens Visiting the USA
The best travel medical insurance for U.S. citizens living abroad visiting USA is Patriot America Plus, Patriot America Platinum, Diplomat America, Visitors Protect, and Diplomat Long Term insurance plans available from American Visitor Insurance.
Patriot America Lite Travel Insurance
Patriot America Lite is a budget-friendly travel insurance for us expats visiting USA, delivering strong core benefits for healthy travelers during short-term visits. It is perfect for those returning to the U.S. for vacations or family visits.
- Coinsurance: In-network: After deductible, plan pays 100%,Out-of-network: After deductible, pays 90% of eligible expenses up to $500, then 100%.
- Direct Billing: First health care or United Healthcare.
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to $1,000,000.
- Urgent Care: $30 per incident; no copayment if deductible is $0.
- Period of coverage: 5 days to 12 months and it can be renewed up to 24 months.
- Repatriation of Remains: Up to maximum limit.
- Policy maximum options range from $50,000 to $1,000,000, and deductibles range from $0 to $2,500.
- Cost: Patriot America Plus travel insurance for us citizens visiting usa cost starts at $69 for one month for a 40-year-old traveler, with a medical maximum of $50,000 and a $250 deductible
Patriot America Plus Visitor Insurance
Patriot America Plus is a top visitor medical insurance for U.S. citizens living abroad visiting the US., offering excellent coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions for travelers up to age 70, along with comprehensive emergency medical benefits. It is best for U.S. citizens returning to the United States for vacations, family visits, or short stays.
- Coinsurance: In-network: After deductible, plan pays 100%,Out-of-network: After deductible, pays 80% of eligible expenses up to $1,000, then 100%.
- Direct Billing: First health care or United Healthcare.
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition: Up to policy maximum for ages up to 70 years.
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to $1,000,000.
- Urgent Care: $30 per incident; no copayment if deductible is $0.
- Period of coverage: 5 days to 12 months and it can be renewed up to 24 months.
- Repatriation of Remains: Up to maximum limit.
- Policy maximum options range from $50,000 to $1,000,000, and deductibles range from $0 to $2,500.
- Cost: Patriot America Plus travel health insurance for us citizens visiting usa cost starts at $74 for one month for a 40-year-old traveler, with a medical maximum of $50,000 and a $250 deductible.
Diplomat America Insurance
Diplomat America is a best travel medical insurance for u s citizens living abroad visiting us, providing protection for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years and comprehensive emergency medical coverage.
- Coinsurance: After deductible, plan pays 80% of eligible costs up to $5,000, then 100% up to the medical maximum.
- Direct Billing: No PPO, visit any doctor or hospital.
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition: Up to policy maximum for those up to age 69.
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to $250,000.
- Period of Coverage: Available from 15 days to 364 days.
- Repatriation of Remains: Up to $50,000.
- Policy maximum options range from $50,000 to $1,000,000, and deductibles range from $0 to $5,000.
- Cost: Diploma America travel health insurance for expats visiting usa cost starts from $138 for one month for a 40-year-old traveler, with a medical maximum of $50,000 and a $250 deductible.
Patriot America Platinum Insurance
Patriot America Platinum is a premium travel insurance for expats travelling in the United States, offering first-class medical coverage with policy maximums up to $8,000,000 and comprehensive benefits for travelers seeking top-tier protection during their visit.
- Coinsurance: In-network: After deductible, 100% coverage,Out-of-network: After deductible, plan pays 100% upto policy maximum.
- Direct Billing: First health care or United Healthcare.
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition: Up to policy maximum for ages up to 70 years.
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to maximum limit.
- Urgent Care: $30 per incident; no copayment if deductible is $0.
- Period of coverage: 5 days to 12 months and it can be renewed up to 36 months.
- Repatriation of Remains: Up to maximum limit.
- Policy maximum options range from $1,000,000 to $8,000,000, and deductibles range from $0 to $25,000.
- Cost: Patriot America Platinum travel health insurance for us citizens living abroad cost starts at $141 for one month for a 40-year-old traveler, with a medical maximum of $1,000,000 and a $250 deductible.
Visitors Protect Insurance
Visitors Protect insurance is a travel health insurance for U.S. citizens living abroad visiting the U.S., offering temporary medical coverage for the pre-existing conditions up to age 99. It provides comprehensive protection and is an excellent option for families hosting elderly parents or travelers on long-term stays.
- Coinsurance: In-network: After deductible, pays 75%,Out-of-network: After deductible, pays 60% up to $5,000, then 100% to the max limit.
- Direct Billing: First health care or United Healthcare.
- Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage: Covers up to 99 years, $25,000 under 70, $20,000 for 70+.
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to $25,000.
- Urgent Care: 15 per incident; no copayment if deductible is $0.
- Period of coverage: Available from 30 days to 364 days.
- Repatriation of Remains: Up to overall maximum limit.
- Policy maximum options range from $50,000 to $250,000, and deductibles range from $250 to $5,000.
- Cost: Visitors Protect us citizens living abroad health insurance cost starts from $765 for 3 months for a 40-year-old traveler, with a medical maximum of $50,000 and a $250 deductible.
Diplomat Longterm Insurance
Diplomat Long Term is the best travel insurance for U.S. citizens living abroad visiting the U.S., offering extended coverage for the unexpected recurrence of pre-existing conditions and comprehensive medical benefits for long-term stays.
- Coinsurance: After deductible, plan pays 80% of eligible costs up to $5,000, then 100% up to the medical maximum.
- Direct Billing: No PPO, visit any doctor or hospital.
- Sudden Recurrence of a Pre-existing Conditions: Up to $20,000 ($2,500 for 65+).
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to $250,000.
- Period of coverage: Available from 30 days to 364 days , and it can be renewed and extended up to 36 months.
- Repatriation of Remains: Up to $250,000.
- Policy maximum options range from $500,000 to $1,000,000, and deductibles range from $0 to $5,000.
- Cost: Diplomat Longterm travel health insurance for american expats cost starts from $715 for 3 months for a 40-year-old traveler, with a medical maximum of $50,000 and a $250 deductible.
💸 Why Is Travel Insurance for the USA So Expensive?
There is no denying that travel insurance to USA is unfortunately very expensive. The main reason for this is simply because the cost of healthcare in the USA is very expensive and the travel insurance USA costs are directly related to the healthcare costs. One more factor for some USA travel insurance plans to be very expensive is that there are specially designed travel insurance for USA plans available for older travelers, with higher medical coverage as well as some plans with coverage for pre-existing ailments.
Patriot America Plus and Patriot Platinum America can be used by US citizens as long as they maintain a residence outside the US and are visiting the country for a short visit. The Patriot America Plus insurance plan offered by IMG is specifically designed for short term visitors to USA and is a hugely popular choice among tourists to America. The policy covers "acute onset of pre-existing conditions" up to the maximum of the plan purchased for persons under 70 years of age.
The company recently added the benefit of copays of $25 for urgent care centers and $15 for walk-in clinics which are paid INSTEAD of the deductible each time these facilities are used. There is a sports rider that can be added for additional cost to cover skiing, snorkeling, surfing, and other common recreational sports. Persons under 70 years of age can get up to $1 million maximum coverage.
🏥 Do I Need U.S. Health Insurance If I Live Abroad?
If you are a U.S. citizen living abroad, you may wonder whether you need U.S. health insurance when you return home for a short visit. The simple answer is: Yes . you generally need temporary U.S. health insurance while visiting the USA.
Here’s why:
- Most foreign or expat insurance does not cover medical treatment inside the United States.
- Old U.S. health plans you had years ago typically do not remain active once you move abroad.
- Medicare cannot be used outside the U.S., and even when visiting the U.S., you must be officially a resident to enroll.
- U.S. healthcare costs are extremely high even a short ER visit can cost several thousand dollars.
Because of these gaps, travel insurance for U.S. citizens living abroad through American Visitor Insurance is the most practical and affordable option for medical emergencies during a short visit home.
🔍 Where Can U.S. Citizens Find Travel Insurance if They Are Living Abroad and Visiting the USA?
American Visitor Insurance is the right place to compare and buy the best travel insurance plans available for US citizens living abroad and visiting the US. US expats visiting the US need coverage when inside the US for that short duration and American Visitor Insurance allows expats to review the different options and buy what best suits their requirements. Patriot America Plus, Patriot America Lite, Diplomat America, Visitors Protect, Patriot America Platinum are some of the popular plans available for US citizens living abroad visiting the US for a short term.
👤 Who Can Buy U.S. Visitor Insurance?
You can usually buy this insurance if:
- You are a U.S. citizen living outside the United States.
- Your primary residence is currently in another country.
- You are coming to the U.S. for a temporary visit (vacation, family visit, business trip, short stay).
- You no longer have active U.S. domestic health insurance.
- You are not returning permanently at this time.
- You do not require ongoing or long-term medical treatment.
- You want coverage only for new medical emergencies, accidents, and illnesses.
This type of insurance is ideal for expats who want affordable medical protection during a short trip without enrolling in costly domestic plans. Through American Visitor Insurance, travelers can compare top visitor medical insurance plans designed for U.S. citizens living overseas returning to the U.S. temporarily.
💉 Flu Shot Coverage in Travel Insurance
Flu shot is a preventive care which is taken annually or as prescribed by the Physician. Flu shots act as preventive care before a person contracts influenza (flu). Most insurance providers do not cover preventive care in the travel insurance policy. Unless mentioned in the policy documents.
1. I have a travel insurance policy, is the flu shot covered in it?
Flu shot is preventive care hence it is not covered automatically if there is an existing travel insurance policy active, unless mentioned in the policy documents. Travelers can check with the insurance providers for more clarity.
2. I Am travelling for a week and if I get the flu during my travel will I be covered for the flu?
As long as travelers contract the flu after the inception date of the policy then it will be covered as a fresh illness. Any Flu which has been there prior to the start date of the travel insurance policy may not be covered.
🌍 International Health Insurance for U.S. Citizens Living Abroad — FAQs
1. What type of travel insurance is suitable for US citizens visiting the USA?
Travel medical insurance plans are suitable for US citizens visiting the USA, as long as they are only temporarily visiting and intend to return to live in another country. Health insurance for US travelers to US offer coverage for medical expenses due to sudden sickness or injury.
2. What are some recommended travel insurance plans for US citizens visiting the USA?
Some recommended medical insurance for US citizens visiting USA include Diplomat America, Diplomat Long Term, Patriot America Lite, Patriot America Plus and Visitors Protect Insurance.
3. Are there options for US citizens who have been living abroad and are moving back to the USA?
US citizens who have been living abroad and are moving back to the USA may consider purchasing Short term medical insurance, which does not require a period of prior residence in the US before purchasing.
4. What are the benefits of travel health insurance for us citizens visiting USA?
Travel insurance in USA for US citizens typically includes coverage for travel assistance, personal liability, accident and sickness, loss or delay of baggage, and hijack cover. Additionally, some plans offer an automatic extension of coverage in the event of hospitalization abroad.
5. Do I need travel insurance if I'm a US Citizen traveling within the USA?
Travel health insurance for U.S. citizens is not mandatory, but it is still recommended as it is beneficial in certain situations. It depends on your risk tolerance and trip plans. Here are some factors to consider:
- Trip Cost: For expensive trips with non-refundable bookings (flights, hotels, tours), travel medical insurance for us citizens can offer financial protection if you need to cancel.
- Medical Concerns: If you have pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about medical emergencies, travel insurance for American citizens can help cover unexpected medical costs.
- Activities: For adventurous activities (skiing, snowboarding, etc.), some plans offer coverage for trip interruptions or injuries sustained during those activities.
6. Are U.S. citizens required to have insurance?
No, U.S. citizens are not legally required to have health insurance when visiting the United States. However, having travel medical insurance from American Visitor Insurance is highly recommended for those living abroad, as it provides protection against costly medical emergencies during short-term or long-term visits.
7. What is the best travel insurance for U.S. citizens visiting the USA?
Top plans from American Visitor Insurance include Patriot America Plus, Patriot America Platinum, Diplomat America, Visitors Protect, and Diplomat Long Term insurance, covering emergency medical care and the acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
8. Can travel insurance for U.S. citizens cover pre-existing conditions?
Some plans, such as Patriot America Plus, Patriot America Platinum, Diplomat America, provide coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. For travelers seeking full pre-existing condition coverage, especially for long-term stays or elderly visitors, Visitors Protect is the best option.
9. Can I cover elderly parents visiting the U.S.?
Yes. Plans like Visitors Protect provide coverage for travelers up to age 99, making them ideal for parents or seniors visiting family in the U.S.
10. Do visitor insurance plans cover pre-existing conditions for U.S. citizen seniors over 70?
Yes. Visitors Protect through American Visitor Insurance provides temporary medical coverage for pre-existing conditions and is one of the few visitor plans to offer extended protection for older travelers.
- For travelers under 70, coverage is up to $25,000.
- For travelers 70 years and older, coverage is up to $20,000 with a $1,500 deductible.
- The plan is designed for visitors staying at least three months in the U.S.
11. Are chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension covered for U.S. citizen seniors?
Yes, certain plans like Visitors Protect may cover emergency care for chronic conditions if a sudden medical situation arises during your visit. Routine checkups and ongoing medication management are not included.
12. Do U.S. citizen seniors need a medical exam to buy pre-existing condition coverage?
Most visitor insurance plans do not require a medical exam, but coverage and eligibility may depend on your age and health history.
✈️ Do Expats Visiting the U.S. Need Travel Insurance?
Many expats lose access to their US health insurance or Medicare while living abroad, leaving them vulnerable to high medical costs in the U.S. It is important to buy travel insurance for US expats visiting USA to cover any unexpected medical emergencies. The US health insurance for expats can provide coverage for emergency medical services, hospitalization, and other medical needs that may arise.
📦 What Does Travel Insurance for U.S. Expats Visiting the USA Cover?
Travel insurance for US citizens living abroad is designed to protect you during short trips home by covering unexpected medical expenses not routine or preventive care. These plans help shield you from extremely high U.S. healthcare costs during a temporary visit.
Coverage typically includes:
- Emergency medical treatment.
- Hospitalization and surgery.
- Emergency room treatment.
- Urgent care or walk-in clinic visits.
- Ambulance services.
- Emergency medical evacuation.
- Repatriation of remains.
- Acute onset of pre-existing conditions (age limits and conditions apply).
These benefits make visitor medical insurance a practical and affordable option for expats who no longer have active U.S. health insurance or whose international plan excludes treatment in the United States. This travel insurance in the USA for U.S. citizens is ideal for short visits home, and American Visitor Insurance offers trusted plans tailored specifically for U.S. expats.
🥇 The Best Travel Insurance for U.S. Expats Visiting the USA
U.S. expats visiting the U.S. for a short visit will not be eligible for domestic health insurance if they have been living outside the U.S. and have not been covered by Medicare or US based employer plans. Therefore, travel medical insurance is the best option, to ensure they have coverage for unexpected medical expenses during their visit. Some of the travel insurance plans for US expats visiting the USA are Patriot America Plus, Visitors Protect, Diplomat America and Patriot America Platinum.
🚫 What Does Travel Health Insurance for Expats Visiting the U.S. Not Cover?
While the travel medical insurance for u s citizens living abroad visiting us provides important protection for unexpected medical emergencies , most plans have exclusions. However, some plans like Visitors Protect are more flexible, covering certain pre-existing and chronic conditions even for travelers over 70.
Generally, these plans do not cover:
- Routine check-ups & preventive care.
- Pregnancy, maternity & childbirth.
- Mental health treatment.
- Elective procedures (cosmetic or non-essential surgeries).
- Travel specifically for medical purposes.
- Visitors Protect plan through American Visitor Insurance offers coverage for pre-existing conditions and certain chronic conditions, even for travelers over age 70, unlike many other visitor insurance plans.
- Coverage for ongoing medications and chronic conditions may vary by plan always check the plan details before purchase.
⏰ When Should I Buy Travel Insurance for U.S. Citizens Visiting the USA & How Long Am I Covered?
Travel insurance for U.S. citizens visiting USA should be purchased before you arrive in the United States to ensure immediate protection during your trip.
Coverage typically ranges from 5 days to 364 days. For travelers who need longer coverage, plan-specific options are available. Patriot America Plus allows renewals for up to 2 years, while Patriot Platinum and Diplomat LongTerm plans offer renewals for up to 3 years, providing flexibility for extended stays.
🛒 What to Look for When Buying Travel Health Insurance for U.S. Citizens Living Abroad
- Medical maximum limit: The total amount the plan will pay for covered medical expenses.
- Deductible amount: The portion you pay out-of-pocket before the insurance starts paying.
- Network hospitals: Hospitals and clinics where the insurance can be directly used.
- Acute-onset coverage details: Whether the plan covers sudden flare-ups of pre-existing conditions.
- Evacuation limits: Coverage for emergency medical evacuation or transport.
- Renewability: Whether the plan can be extended or renewed for longer stays.
💬 U.S. Citizen Health Insurance for Visiting the USA — Forum
US Citizen coming to the US for short trips
Hi,Looking for medical travel insurance for frequent short trips to the US from Costa Rica where we are currently living. I am a US resident and wondering if I qualify for this insurance.
Thanks,
Nancy
Thank you for contacting American Visitor Insurance with your inquiry! There are plans that are available for US citizens residing abroad and visiting the US for a short period of time. However, annual trip plans for people traveling frequently are available for US and Non US citizens traveling outside their home country. Since you are a US citizen and want coverage in the US which is your home country we will not be able to suggest annual trip plans but you can buy other plans for visiting the US for short period of time.
Patriot America Plus Insurance:www.americanvisitorinsurance.com
Customer care
(877) 340 7910
Have Questions?
Need help understanding your policy?
Our Customer Service team is available 24x7, putting your needs first every step of the way.
🔗 Travel Insurance for U.S. Expats Visiting the USA — Resourceful Links
🩺 Medical Insurance for U.S. Expats Visiting the USA
Travel medical insurance USA resources
International travel insurance resources for USA visa holders.
Factors for travel insurance USA online
Factors for the best travel insurance to USA.
Types of USA tourist insurance online
Different types of tourist insurance for USA.
USA Vacation insurance claims procedure
Trip insurance claims process for getting medical care.
What Are the Famous Destinations in USA?
1. Famous Museums as travel destinations in USA
2. Popular National Park destinations in USA
3. Top Nature destinations in USA
4. Top Snowbird tourism destinations in USA
5. Popular Golfing vacation destinations in USA
6. Best Amusement Parks in the USA
7. List of Casinos in USA
8. Best Shopping Malls in USA
9. Top Ski resorts in USA
Popular US States visited by tourists and travelers
Popular US cities visited by tourists and travelers
📘 Summary of U.S. Citizens Visiting the USA
Travel insurance for U.S. citizens visiting USA is essential for expats and Americans living abroad who are returning home temporarily. Many foreign or old U.S. insurance plans do not cover treatment in the U.S., and healthcare costs are extremely high.
These visitor medical insurance plans, including Visitors Protect, Patriot America Plus, Patriot America Platinum, and Diplomat Long Term insurance through American Visitor Insurance, provide coverage for emergencies, accidents, hospitalization, acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and urgent care visits.
Whether you’re visiting for vacation, family, or business, this insurance ensures you are protected from unexpected medical expenses during your stay. Coverage can range from a few days to multiple years, depending on the plan, making it a flexible and affordable solution for U.S. citizens living abroad.
