J-1 Exchange Visitor Insurance Requirements

U.S. federal regulations require that each visitor holding a J-1 Exchange Visitor visa must have insurance in effect which covers the visitor for sickness or accident during the visitor's stay in the U.S. In order to comply with the regulations, the insurance must meet or exceed the following:

• Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness.
• Repatriation of remains in the amount of $7,500.
• Medical evacuation benefits of $10,000.
• Deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
• Spouse and/or dependents of visitor must have same coverage.

An insurance policy meeting or exceeding the minimum requirements shown above may have:

• A reasonable industry standard waiting period for pre-existing conditions.
• A provision for co-insurance up to 25% of the covered benefit.
• Shall not have unreasonable exclusions.
• Financial security provided by: 1) an insurance company having a AM Best rating of A- or better; 2) the full faith and credit of the visitor's government; 3) a group health plan offered by the visitor's sponsor; 4) a DSHS qualified HMO or CMP; 5) a US federal or state self-insurance plan; or other security specifically approved by the US federal government.

Where can I purchase this kind of insurance?

• In your home country prior to coming to WWU
• CISI: 1-800-303-8120 or http://www.culturalinsurance.com/ , click on Plans for Individuals
• IMG: 1-800-628-4664 or http://www.imglobal.com/ click on Choosing the Right Coverage
• STA Travel
• WWU's Student Health Insurance: WWU's program is available to students and scholars. Call 1-800-853-5899 or visit the Student Health Center website for more information.

Note: Not all plans meet the University's recommendations. Make sure that you become familiar with an individual plan's eligibility requirements, coverage, limits, exclusions and premiums before purchasing it. Be certain the plan meets your personal needs for health insurance coverage.

If you have any questions, please contact WWU's International Programs & Exchanges at 650-3298 or Risk Management at 650-3065.