If you’re planning to visit the United States, tourist health insurance US should be on top of your checklist. The U.S. has one of the most advanced, yet expensive, healthcare systems in the world. For international travelers, even a minor medical issue can turn into a financial burden without proper coverage.
In 2025, policies are more flexible than ever, tailored to short-term visitors, families, students, and senior travelers. Whether you’re visiting for business, vacation, or to meet family, tourist health insurance can cover everything from emergency surgeries to COVID-19 treatment.
Why Tourists Need Health Insurance in the United States
High Healthcare Costs in the U.S.
A visit to an emergency room in the U.S. can cost anywhere between $1,200 to $7,000—and that’s without any surgery or hospitalization. For tourists paying out-of-pocket, this can be financially devastating. Unlike many countries, the U.S. does not offer free or subsidized care to tourists.
Common Medical Emergencies Travelers Face
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Food poisoning or stomach infections
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Car accidents
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COVID-19 complications
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Slip and fall injuries
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Allergic reactions
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Insect bites
Without health insurance, managing any of the above situations could not only derail your trip but also lead to long-term debt.
Types of Tourist Health Insurance Plans Available
When you search for “tourist health insurance US” in 2025, you’ll likely see multiple plan types. Here’s how to differentiate them:
Travel Medical Insurance
Ideal for those visiting the U.S. for a short period, these plans focus mainly on medical emergencies, doctor visits, and hospitalization.
Visitor Health Insurance
Tailored specifically for foreign nationals traveling to the U.S., visitor health plans offer broader coverage and sometimes even include routine checkups.
Trip Insurance with Medical Coverage
These policies combine trip cancellation/interruption insurance with emergency medical benefits, which is often a good choice for high-cost vacations.
What Does Tourist Health Insurance Cover in 2025?
As of 2025, most standard plans include:
Emergency Medical Treatment
Covers accidents, sudden illnesses, emergency room visits, and urgent care consultations.
Hospitalization and Surgeries
Whether it’s an appendix removal or an injury requiring surgery, the costs can run into tens of thousands—your insurance covers this.
COVID-19 and Pandemic-Related Coverage
Following recent global events, almost every plan now includes COVID-19 testing, quarantine coverage, and hospitalization related to pandemics.
Prescription Drugs and Ambulance Services
Tourist insurance will often cover necessary medications and ambulance rides to the hospital, which in the U.S. can cost upwards of $1,000.
What’s Not Covered by Tourist Health Insurance?
It’s important to note the exclusions, which often include:
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Pre-existing conditions (unless specifically included)
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Routine dental or vision care
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Pregnancy-related expenses
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Cosmetic procedures
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High-risk adventure sports (unless a rider is purchased)
How Much is Health Insurance for Tourists in the USA in 2025?
Cost varies based on age, length of stay, and the type of coverage. Here’s a rough breakdown:
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Short-term stay (1 month): $50–$300
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Long-term stay (3–6 months): $150–$1,200
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Senior travelers (65+): $100–$600 per month
Generally, you can expect to pay $1.50 to $5 per day for basic coverage and more for comprehensive plans.
Best Providers Offering Tourist Health Insurance in the US
IMG (International Medical Group)
Offers flexible, customizable plans ideal for single travelers, students, and families.
Seven Corners
Known for their visitor-friendly customer service and affordable, comprehensive plans.
Trawick International
Highly rated for COVID-19 coverage and direct-billing networks.
Allianz Global Assistance
Trusted by frequent travelers, this company offers seamless online claims and mobile app support.
How to Choose the Right Health Insurance as a Tourist
Trip Duration and Age Factor
Older travelers typically pay more, so compare multiple quotes. If you’re staying for 90+ days, look into long-term plans.
Pre-Existing Condition Coverage
If you have a chronic illness, find plans that offer partial or complete coverage through special riders.
Network Hospitals and Direct Billing
Plans that offer direct billing save you from paying large sums upfront and waiting for reimbursement.
Can a Tourist Get Medical Treatment Without Insurance?
Yes, but it’s extremely expensive. Tourists can receive care at emergency rooms, urgent care clinics, or even private hospitals. However, they will be billed directly and expected to pay in full before discharge.
Without insurance, a basic ER visit with diagnostic testing can exceed $5,000, and inpatient care can quickly reach $20,000–$50,000.
Step-by-Step: How to Buy Tourist Health Insurance in the U.S.
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Compare plans on trusted websites like VisitorsCoverage
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Enter trip details—destination, duration, traveler’s age
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Review policy terms, inclusions, and exclusions
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Select additional riders (if needed)
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Make the payment online via a secure portal
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Download insurance documents and carry them during your travel
Legal Considerations and Entry Requirements
Although the U.S. does not mandate insurance for all tourists, some visa categories like J-1 and B-2 may require proof of coverage. Having insurance could also support your visa approval by demonstrating preparedness.
Alternatives to Traditional Tourist Health Insurance
Travel Credit Cards with Insurance
Premium cards may offer limited health coverage, but are often insufficient for serious illnesses.
Temporary U.S. Health Plans
If you’re staying longer (over 6 months), some states allow temporary ACA-compliant plans, though they are harder to obtain as a non-resident.
Common Myths About Tourist Health Insurance in the US
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Myth: My home country’s insurance covers me in the U.S.
Truth: Most do not extend coverage beyond borders. -
Myth: I’m healthy, I won’t need insurance.
Truth: Accidents are unpredictable, and hospital bills are enormous. -
Myth: Tourist health plans are scams.
Truth: Reputable providers are regulated and offer legitimate support.
Real-Life Scenarios Where Insurance Saved Travelers
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A UK traveler fell during a hike and needed surgery—covered: $45,000
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A student visiting family caught COVID-19 and was hospitalized—covered: $28,000
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A Canadian couple had a car accident—covered: $60,000 for ER, CT scans, and treatment
FAQs
Can a tourist get health insurance in the USA?
Yes, tourists can buy specialized visitor insurance plans that offer medical coverage during their stay in the U.S. These are available online and can be purchased prior to travel.
How much is health insurance for tourists in the USA?
It typically costs between $50 and $300 for short trips and can go up to $600+ monthly for older travelers or extended stays.
Can a tourist get medical treatment in the USA?
Yes, tourists can access all types of medical services, but without insurance, they must pay out of pocket. Emergency rooms are legally required to treat patients regardless of insurance.
What is the best travel insurance for visitors to the US?
Top-rated companies in 2025 include IMG, Trawick International, Seven Corners, and Allianz. Choose based on coverage needs, traveler age, and duration of stay.
Is COVID-19 covered in tourist health plans?
Yes, most 2025 tourist insurance plans include COVID-19 treatment, testing, and quarantine costs.
Can elderly parents visiting the US get insurance?
Absolutely. Many providers offer plans specifically for seniors aged 65+, although premiums may be higher.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the complex world of U.S. healthcare as a tourist doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With tourist health insurance US, you gain peace of mind, protection against sky-high medical bills, and the confidence to enjoy your trip safely.
Whether you’re planning a two-week holiday or a multi-month stay, investing in the right health insurance plan is the smartest travel decision you can make in 2025. From sudden illnesses to emergency surgeries, a good policy acts like a financial life jacket in turbulent waters.
You could be saving more—find out with a free quote at NewHealthInsurance.com or by calling 📞 (833) 877-9927.
About Johnathan Reynolds
Johnathan Reynolds is a passionate writer and healthcare advocate dedicated to simplifying complex topics in health insurance. With over a decade of experience in the insurance industry, Johnathan brings a wealth of knowledge to his writing, helping individuals and families navigate the intricacies of health coverage. His expertise breaks down jargon-filled insurance policies into easily understandable concepts, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Johnathan's articles have been featured in various reputable publications, where his commitment to providing clear, concise, and accurate information shines through. Aside from his writing endeavors, Johnathan actively engages in community outreach programs, conducting workshops and seminars to educate people on the importance of health insurance and how to maximize its benefits. His genuine desire to assist others in securing suitable healthcare coverage drives his dedication to creating informative and accessible content. Johnathan holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics, which has honed his analytical skills and allows him to offer a unique perspective on the financial aspects of health insurance. His passion for continuous learning in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape ensures that his readers receive up-to-date and relevant information. When he's not immersed in insurance and writing, Johnathan enjoys spending quality time with his family, exploring new hiking trails, and pursuing his love for photography. You can find his insightful articles and expert advice on health insurance on newhealthinsurance.com, where he aims to empower readers to make confident choices about their healthcare coverage. Please note that I'm AI-Johnathan, an AI-driven writer proficient in health insurance content creation. Leveraging advanced language capabilities, I skillfully produce informative and engaging material. Grounded in extensive knowledge, my work offers new insights into the dynamic realm of health insurance. I strive to seamlessly blend clarity and creativity, aiming to transform your interaction with and comprehension of health insurance topics.
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