USA Health & Insurance Update: 2025/2026

CIEE J-1 Insurance:
$1 Million Protection for the USA

An accident or serious illness in the USA without proper coverage can lead to financial ruin. While the US Department of State only mandates a coverage of $100,000, the CIEE J-1 Insurance goes a decisive step further: With a maximum benefit limit of 1 Million US Dollars, it offers you and your host company genuine security throughout your stay.

The Aetna Network: Your Direct Access

As an official partner of CIEE, we provide you with access to the Aetna Preferred Provider Network. With over 650,000 registered doctors and hospitals, it is one of the largest networks in the USA. When you use “In-Network” facilities, you benefit from directly billed costs and avoid the high out-of-pocket expenses that would apply outside the network.

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Hard Facts: Benefits & Limits

The CIEE plan is specifically tailored to the needs of J-1 participants. Here are the key facts regarding your coverage:

  • Maximum Total Protection: Up to $1,000,000 per person.
  • Medical Benefits: Minimum $100,000 coverage per accident or illness.
  • Emergency Evacuation: $50,000 for medically necessary return transport.
  • Repatriation: $25,000 for transport of remains.
Good to know: This insurance does not just meet the J-1 requirements; it far exceeds them. This gives you the freedom to focus entirely on your training or internship.

Important: The 48-Hour Rule

For full coverage to apply, you must know the rules. In the event of inpatient hospital stays, surgeries, or specialized examinations, CIEE (the sponsor) must be informed within 48 hours of admission. If you miss this deadline (Pre-Certification), the reimbursable costs are automatically reduced by 50%. In a serious case, this could mean a loss of thousands of dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions about Insurance

Do I have to pay anything out-of-pocket when visiting a doctor? +
Yes, there is a so-called “Copay.” At Urgent Care facilities, this is usually $20, at a general practitioner $50, and in the Emergency Room (ER) $100 per visit.
Are sports injuries covered? +
Recreational sports are generally insured. However, professional sports, intercollegiate competitions, or high-risk extreme sports (e.g., skydiving) are explicitly excluded according to the policy.
What about Workers’ Compensation? +
For paid J-1 positions, your US employer is legally required to insure you against work-related accidents through Workers’ Compensation insurance. CIEE verifies this in advance.
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