Insurance is a contractual agreement that provides assurance to cover expenses incurred by an individual in the event of specific occurrences, such as medical emergencies, travel-related mishaps, automobile accidents, marine incidents, or even in the unfortunate event of death. In exchange for this coverage, the individual pays a periodic or one-time fee known as an Insurance Premium.

International Health Insurance

International Health Insurance, also known as Overseas Medical Insurance, offers coverage for medical expenses over an extended period. This type of insurance is designed for individuals residing in foreign countries for an extended period and may be mandatory for them. It encompasses a range of medical-related issues, including:

• Chronic illnesses
• Medical surgeries
• Emergency illnesses and injuries
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Dental and vision injuries
• Hospital and outpatient expenses, among others.

International Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for expenses incurred during international travel. It’s tailored for individuals traveling to foreign countries for short durations and specific purposes, typically not mandated. Coverage includes:

• Medical expenses
• Trip cancellation and delays
• Loss of passport and baggage
• Financial emergency assistance
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Personal accident, among other things.

While International Travel Insurance covers travel-related expenses, it also includes coverage for medical and health issues during the travel period. However, the coverage for medical expenses is typically more limited compared to a dedicated International Health Insurance plan. Both Indian and American insurance companies offer both types of plans, allowing individuals to choose the one that best suits their needs.

 Anyone leaving their home country, such as India, and traveling abroad should consider obtaining International Travel/Health Insurance.

Individuals holding a valid visa for international travel are eligible to purchase our insurance plans.

Factors to consider when purchasing insurance may vary based on your circumstances:

• For students going to the U.S. on F-1/J-1 visas:

  • University insurance waiver criteria
  • Premium costs
  • Maximum coverage amount
  • Out-of-pocket limits
  • Preferred provider networks
  • PPACA compliance

• For individual travelers:

  • Premium costs
  • Maximum coverage amount
  • Coverage sub-limits
  • In-patient and outpatient coverage
  • Claim assistance and ratio
  • Network of hospitals

Nearly every U.S. university has specific criteria for waiving their own health insurance plan. Students should choose external health insurance plans that meet these university requirements. These criteria are typically outlined in the brochure of external health insurance plans and can be compared with the university’s requirements. Examples of such criteria include:

• No limit on maximum coverage
• ACA compliance
• Out-of-pocket limits not exceeding $6,350
• Coverage for both in-patient and out-patient care in a specific state or city
• Coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation, among other criteria.