Health Insurance for Foreigners and Non-US Citizens in the USA
Foreigners and non-US citizens can get health insurance in the USA. The right coverage depends on your immigration status, length of stay, age, and reason for being in the country. International health insurance is generally suited to long-term stays, while travel medical insurance is designed for short-term visitors. Having adequate coverage can help protect you from significant medical costs in the U.S.
What Health Insurance Do I Need in the USA?
The type of health insurance you need in the USA depends on your immigration status, length of stay, employment, eligibility for U.S. health coverage, and whether you need protection outside the country.
| Your Situation | Coverage Option | Key Feature | What to Check |
| Non-US citizen living in the USA | International, employer-sponsored, or eligible U.S. coverage | Ongoing medical coverage; options for U.S. or international protection | Eligibility, provider network, deductible, geographic area |
| Expat moving to the USA | International health insurance | Long-term coverage; U.S. treatment; potential worldwide coverage | U.S.-only vs. worldwide coverage, network, limits |
| Short-term visitor | Travel medical / visitors insurance | Emergency and unexpected medical care during a temporary stay | Medical maximum, deductible, trip duration, pre-existing condition terms |
| International student | Student or qualifying international coverage | Medical coverage during studies | School and visa requirements, network, coverage period |
| Working in the USA | Employer-sponsored, eligible U.S., or international coverage | Can provide long-term coverage for employees and dependents | Employer benefits, start date, dependents, network, international needs |
| Retiree / age 65+ | Medicare if eligible, or international/private alternatives | Coverage options for older foreign nationals | Medicare eligibility, age limits, residency/immigration requirements |
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Health Insurance for Non-U.S. Citizens in the USA
Below are the main coverage options for non-US citizens, expats, older residents, and short-term visitors to the United States.
Health Insurance for Non-US Citizens
Non-US citizens living in the United States can get international health insurance, an employer-sponsored health plan, or U.S. health coverage if they are eligible. The right option depends on your immigration status, employment, and length of stay.
If you are coming to the U.S. to work, your employer may offer a health plan that also covers eligible family members. Before enrolling, check the provider network, deductible, and out-of-pocket costs, and whether the policy provides the level of protection you need.
Alternatively, a global medical plan can provide private health coverage in the United States and other countries. This makes it a good choice if you travel frequently, return home regularly, or want broader international protection.
U.S. Health Insurance for Expats Living in the USA
Expats moving to the United States for one year or longer can consider a global medical plan designed for people living outside their home country. These plans can provide coverage for treatment in the U.S. and other countries.
The United States government does not generally require expatriates or U.S. citizens to have health insurance. However, the U.S. has some of the highest medical costs in the world. Without adequate coverage, hospital stays, emergency treatment, and other healthcare services can result in significant out-of-pocket costs. For this reason, a health plan is strongly recommended for anyone living in the country.
When comparing global medical plans, consider whether you need U.S.-only or worldwide protection, which hospitals and doctors you can access, your deductible and policy limits, and whether you need benefits for dependents.
Health Insurance for Non-US Citizens Over 65
Non-US citizens over 65 may be eligible for Medicare or can consider a private global medical plan or visitors’ insurance, depending on their circumstances.
Turning 65 does not automatically make a foreign national eligible for Medicare. Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances, and your or your spouse’s work history can affect Medicare coverage and costs. If you are planning to retire in the U.S., check your eligibility before choosing a private plan.
If you are not eligible for Medicare, a private global medical plan or visitors’ insurance may be options depending on your circumstances.
When comparing private plans, check age eligibility, coverage limits, deductibles, provider networks, prescription benefits, and terms for pre-existing conditions.
For current eligibility and enrollment information, visit the official Medicare website.
Health Insurance for Visitors to the USA
If you are visiting the United States for less than a year, a travel medical plan or visitors’ insurance may be more appropriate than a long-term global health plan. This type of coverage is designed for temporary stays and can help cover unexpected illnesses, injuries, and medical emergencies.
Because medical care in the U.S. can be expensive, U.S. travel insurance can help protect you from significant costs associated with doctor visits, hospital treatment, and other healthcare needs. Depending on the policy, benefits may also include prescription medications and translation or assistance services.
When comparing travel plans, check the medical coverage limit, deductible, provider network, emergency benefits, exclusions, and any terms related to pre-existing conditions.
Before traveling, check that your policy meets your coverage needs and any requirements that apply to your trip.
Best Health Insurance for Non-US Citizens in the USA
Non-US citizens looking for private coverage in the USA have several international health plans to consider.
Three options are Cigna Global, BCBS Global Solutions, and International Medical Group (IMG). Each offers different levels of coverage, benefits, and flexibility to suit different healthcare needs and budgets.
Cigna Global
Cigna Global is a provider with worldwide coverage and a dominant presence in the US. It offers excellent service and benefits to clients, with personnel on the ground in major countries to provide an immediate response when needed.
Cigna also offers a flexible plan that lets you choose which modules and benefits to include in the policy. Tailoring your U.S. health policy is an advantage that will help you budget expenses effectively.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions Worldwide Premier is a very popular provider in the USA. It offers more comprehensive benefits than Cigna Global’s base plan, along with a premium level of customer service.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier is a partner of Blue Cross Blue Shield of America, a leading insurer in the USA. This gives BCBS Global Solutions a wider network of high-quality doctors and hospitals included in its policies.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
International Medical Group (IMG)
IMG offers several affordable medical plans in the United States. It is the best option for foreigners on a tight budget who do not want to compromise on basic coverage.
IMG’s Bronze and Silver plans provide basic medical care coverage. Their Gold and Platinum plans offer additional benefits to clients. IMG partners with UnitedHealthcare PPO and First Health to provide access to their global networks of providers and hospitals.
We recommend the Gold and Platinum plans if you’re staying for more than a year, as they offer comprehensive benefits.
IMG Global Medical Plan
- Affordable global coverage with flexible options
- Coverage area options based on where you live or work
- Visit any doctor or hospital worldwide
How Does the ACA Apply to Non-US Citizens?
Your immigration status can affect your eligibility for coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.
Lawfully present non-US citizens, including green card holders and people with certain visas or other qualifying immigration statuses, may be eligible to buy a health plan through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace.
Depending on your income and circumstances, you may also qualify for financial assistance that can reduce the cost of Marketplace coverage. Eligibility depends on your immigration status and other requirements, so check the current Marketplace rules before applying.
Your U.S. tax residency can also affect how some ACA rules apply to you. Learn more about how the IRS determines resident and nonresident alien status in the United States.
How Much Is Health Insurance in the U.S?
The cost of health insurance for foreigners in the USA varies widely depending on the type of plan and level of coverage.
The most affordable global medical plan we offer ranges from $400 to $500 per year, while the most comprehensive plans can cost $30,000 to $40,000 per year. The average plan costs between $5,000 and $8,000 per person per year.
Your actual cost will depend on factors such as your age, location, deductible, plan level, and whether you need protection in the U.S. only or worldwide.
Global medical plans offer coverage for different needs and budgets. Lower-cost plans may focus mainly on major or unexpected medical expenses. More comprehensive plans can include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, laboratory services, and care for chronic conditions.
For temporary stays, a short-term travel medical plan can be a more affordable option. Plans we offer start at approximately $1.50 per day and can cost more than $10 per day for older travelers or those choosing more comprehensive coverage.
When comparing costs, consider more than the premium. A lower-priced plan may have a higher deductible, lower coverage limits, or fewer benefits, so compare the overall value and potential out-of-pocket costs before choosing a policy.
How Much Coverage Do You Need?
The amount of coverage you need depends on the length of your stay, your age, the number of people covered, your healthcare needs, and your budget.
Policy maximums (the most a plan will pay for covered medical expenses) can range from $50,000 per coverage period to $5 million or more, depending on the plan. Maximums are generally per person, while some comprehensive plans offer higher or unlimited coverage.
As a general guideline:
| Length of Stay | Coverage to Consider | What to Consider |
| 5 days to 1 month | $50,000–$100,000 | Short trips and unexpected medical emergencies |
| 1 to 3 months | $100,000–$500,000 | Longer stays and greater exposure to potential medical costs |
| More than 3 months but less than 1 year | At least $250,000 | Extended stays and potentially higher healthcare needs |
| 1 year or longer | At least $1 million annually | Long-term residents, families, and people expecting to receive medical care in the U.S. |
How to Choose the Right Plan
The right health plan depends on why you are in the U.S., how long you plan to stay, and the level of coverage you need. For temporary visits, a travel medical plan may be appropriate, while people living or working in the U.S. long term can consider more comprehensive international health insurance.
Before choosing a plan, compare the benefits, policy maximum, deductible, provider network, geographic area, and exclusions. You can also compare the best international health insurers to explore providers and plan options.
Ready to Find Coverage?
Get a free, no-obligation quote:
- Short-term visitors: Get a travel medical insurance quote
- Long-term residents and expats: Get an international health insurance quote
Not sure which option is right for you? Working with an international insurance broker can make it easier to compare plans, benefits, and costs from multiple insurers. International Citizens Insurance’s licensed advisors can help you understand your options and find a plan that fits your needs and budget at no extra cost.
Health Insurance for Non-U.S. Citizens FAQs
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No, not all U.S. visas require health insurance. However, some visa programs have specific coverage requirements. For example, J-1 exchange visitors and their J-2 dependents must maintain qualifying medical coverage during the exchange program.
Check the requirements for your specific visa before choosing a plan. J-1 and J-2 participants can review the requirements through the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA program.
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Yes, you may be able to get health insurance in the USA without a Social Security number (SSN), depending on the type of coverage and your eligibility. International and visitors’ insurance may have different application requirements from U.S. health plans.
For ACA Marketplace coverage, lawfully present immigrants may be eligible, and applicants may need to provide an SSN if they have one or relevant immigration documentation. Check HealthCare.gov’s information for immigrants for current Marketplace requirements.
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International students may need health insurance depending on their visa and school requirements. J-1 exchange students must maintain qualifying medical coverage, while F-1 and other international students may be required by their college or university to have insurance.
If your school requires coverage, you may be enrolled in a student health plan or allowed to use another plan that meets its requirements. You can also explore international student health insurance options.
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Depending on the plan, yes. Some global health plans let you lower your premium by choosing a higher deductible, a different coverage level, a geographic area, or fewer optional benefits. However, not every benefit can be removed individually.
Working with a licensed insurance broker can help you compare plans and available benefits to find a plan that meets your healthcare needs and budget.
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If you need medical care in the U.S. without health insurance, you will generally have to pay for treatment yourself. In an emergency, most hospital emergency departments must screen and stabilize you even if you cannot pay, but you can still be billed for the care you receive.
Learn more about healthcare costs in the USA.