Traveling to the United States from India is often filled with excitement — whether it is to visit children and grandchildren, attend a special event, or explore new destinations. But one important detail is often forgotten in the planning: health insurance.
Many Indian visitors arrive in the U.S. without any medical coverage, either because they were not aware of its importance or they assumed it would be easier to buy later. The good news is: health insurance can still be purchased after arriving in the U.S. However, there are some key points every visitor and their family should know.
Why buying health insurance after arrival still matters
Healthcare in the U.S. is among the most expensive in the world. Unlike India, where a private hospital visit might cost a few thousand rupees, a simple emergency room visit in the U.S. can result in a bill of $1,000 to $3,000 — even for minor issues. A hospital stay could cost $10,000 or more, depending on the treatment.
Without insurance, Indian visitors must pay these costs entirely out of pocket, as they are not eligible for U.S. government programs like Medicare or Medicaid, or the other domestic plans. In many cases, hospitals may even demand upfront deposits before offering treatment.
Health insurance helps ensure access to care without financial hardship, even if it is purchased after arrival.
Is it legal to purchase insurance after reaching the US?
Yes, Indian visitors on tourist visas (such as B1/B2) are allowed to buy short-term health insurance after they land in the U.S. There is no legal restriction preventing this. However, visitors should be aware of potential limitations, such as:
- Waiting periods before illness coverage begins
- Limited options for coverage of pre-existing conditions
- Reduced benefits in the initial days of the policy
- No coverage for events that occurred before policy start date
That said, buying insurance sooner rather than later after arrival can offer valuable protection against unforeseen health emergencies.
What’s typically covered by post-arrival insurance
Although coverage varies by policy, most short-term visitor health insurance plans include:
- Emergency medical treatment (for illness or injury)
- Hospitalization and outpatient care
- Doctor visits and urgent care services
- Prescription medications related to new covered conditions
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Acute onset of pre-existing conditions (limited and age-dependent)
This kind of insurance is not equivalent to U.S. domestic health plans, but it does cover many common health-related expenses for travelers.
What’s not covered
It is equally important to know what is excluded:
- Routine checkups and preventive care
- Maternity or childbirth-related care
- Dental or vision (unless due to accident)
- Ongoing treatment for chronic conditions
- Full coverage of pre-existing conditions
Some policies may offer limited coverage for a sudden and unexpected flare-up of a pre-existing condition — often called “acute onset” — but this is different from full treatment for long-term illnesses. It is always a good practice to review the certificate for exclusions.
Waiting periods and delays in coverage
If a visitor buys insurance after arriving in the U.S., most policies can begin the very next day after applying for coverage. However, some might have a waiting period — before they begin covering illnesses. This rule helps prevent people from purchasing insurance only after getting sick.
However, coverage for accidents or injuries is typically available immediately, even if the plan was bought post-arrival if the injury or accident happens after the effective date of the plan.
To reduce the risk of being caught without protection, it is advisable to purchase the plan as early as possible after reaching the U.S.
Can family members buy insurance for their parents after arrival?
Absolutely. Children or relatives in the U.S. can purchase travel medical insurance on behalf of their visiting parents or in-laws. The process is usually simple and done entirely online, requiring:
- The visitor’s name, date of birth, and travel dates
- Residential address from the country you are from
- Payment via credit/debit card
- Optional passport or visa details (depending on the insurer)
The buyer receives a digital policy certificate and ID card instantly, which can be used during hospital visits or emergencies.
What about pre-existing conditions?
Most visitor insurance plans do not cover ongoing treatment for pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or arthritis and more. However, some may offer limited benefits for the acute onset of such conditions — meaning a sudden and unexpected flare-up requiring immediate medical attention.
This coverage is subject to strict rules, often including:
- Age limitations
- Time-based exclusions during the waiting period
- Exclusions if the condition is being treated or monitored
Always review the exact definition of “acute onset” in the policy wording to avoid misunderstandings.
Cost of buying insurance after arrival
The cost of travel medical insurance depends on several factors:
- Visitor’s age: Older travelers pay more
- Trip duration: Longer coverage periods increase the premium
- Coverage maximum and deductible: Higher benefits cost more but higher deductible brings down the premium
- Optional Add-on benefits: Optional Add-on coverage options add cost
Typical price ranges (approximate):
- Visitors aged 40–59: $80–$150 per month
- Visitors aged 60–69: $120–$200 per month
- Visitors aged 70+: $150–$300 per month
These estimates vary depending on the policy features and provider.
Practical tips for Indian visitors and their families
- Buy as soon as possible after arriving in the U.S. to reduce waiting periods.
- Carry both digital and printed copies of the insurance ID card and certificate.
- Know your network: Many policies work best with PPO hospitals and offer direct billing.
- Understand the claims process: Keep all receipts and medical records in case you need to file a claim.
- Call the assistance number on your card before visiting a hospital, if possible.
- Read the exclusions: Avoid surprises by knowing what is not covered.
Can the insurance be canceled or refunded?
Yes. Most visitor insurance policies allow cancellation and refunds for unused days — if no claims have been made. If the visitor leaves early, or you buy a new policy, you may request a prorated refund (minus a small admin fee, in most cases).
It is always a good idea to check the cancellation terms before purchasing.
Final thoughts: Better late than uninsured
Buying health insurance after arriving in the U.S. is not ideal, but it is far better than having no protection at all. Whether it is for sudden illness, accidental injuries, or an unexpected medical emergency, coverage can offer peace of mind and financial security.
Indian families hosting parents or relatives should prioritize getting insurance immediately upon arrival. With rising healthcare costs and increasing travel risks, a few dollars a day on coverage can prevent financial stress — and ensure access to quality care when it matters most.