Health Insurance Requirements

J-1 Exchange Visitors must maintain health insurance coverage that meets the minimum criteria set by the U.S. Department of State for themselves (and any J-2 dependents) for the duration of their J-1 program. Prior to issuing form DS-2019, OIS requires Exchange Visitors to verify their understanding of J-1 Health Insurance requirements as outlined below.

Health Insurance Minimum Requirements:

• Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per person per accident or illness 
• Deductible of no more than $500 per accident or illness 
• Medical Evacuation up to $50,000 
• Repatriation of remains up to $25,000 
• Covers pre-existing conditions after a reasonable waiting period 
• Includes provision for co-payment that does not exceed 25% co-pay by the Exchange Visitor 
• Does not exclude benefits for perils inherent to the activities of the Exchange Visitor’s program 
• Must be underwritten by an insurance company that meets the rating requirements of the Department of State or is backed by the full faith and credit of the Exchange Visitor’s government.

J-1 Exchange Visitors and their J-2 dependents may be subject to the requirements of the Affordable Care Act. (Per 22 CFR 62.14(a))

In addition to the above regulatory obligation to maintain health insurance while on an active J-1 program (dates indicated in Box 3 of form DS-2019), J-1 Exchange Visitors are strongly encouraged to secure a temporary/travel health insurance plan that begins the day of arrival to the U.S. (if entering the U.S. before the start date in Box 3), and during the 30 day grace period following the program end date/until departure from the U.S. Many individuals are unaware of the cost of medical services in the U.S. and the exceptionally high expenses that may be incurred if a medical event occurs while an individual does not have insurance coverage. Individuals are fully liable for medical expenses that are incurred without insurance coverage.

Failure to Maintain Health Insurance

Willful failure on the part of the Exchange Visitor or any J-2 dependents to maintain the required insurance will result in the termination of your J program.

Health Insurance for JHU Students

International students at JHU must enroll in the JHU student health insurance plan for the entire duration of their academic program.

*Note* J-1 Students who have been authorized for post-completion academic training may not be eligible for the JHU Student Health Insurance plan and may need to secure separate coverage that meets the J-1 requirements outlined above after the JHU portion of their program ends.

More information about JHU student health insurance can be found on our website here.