Going to the USA Without Travel Insurance? Read This First

Planning a trip to the United States—whether for tourism, business, studies, or visiting family—is exciting. But one question almost every traveller asks is: Is travel insurance mandatory for the USA?  

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for USA Entry?

There is currently no federal law in the United States that requires short-term visitors to hold travel insurance to clear customs. If you are travelling from the UK under the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) or a standard visitor visa, you will not be asked for proof of insurance at the border. However, "mandatory" and "essential" are two very different things in the American context. In the UK, we are accustomed to healthcare being a right; in the USA, it is a service with some of the highest price tags in the world.

Why the "Mandatory" Question Matters?

Even though it isn't a legal requirement for entry, the financial risk of travelling uninsured to the US is astronomical.

Emergency Room Visit: $1,500 – $3,000 (£1,150 – £2,300)
Ambulance Ride: $400 – $1,200 (£300 – £920)
Three-Day Hospital Stay: Upwards of $30,000 (£23,000)

Without a policy, you are personally liable for these costs. For this reason, many travel experts argue that while the government doesn't mandate it, your bank account certainly does.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for a B2 Visa USA?

The B2 visa is designed for tourism, pleasure, or visiting friends and family. So, is travel insurance mandatory for B2 visa USA applicants?
You can attend your visa interview at the embassy and enter the country without a policy. However, during the visa interview, a consular officer must be satisfied that you can support yourself financially during your stay.

Having a comprehensive travel insurance policy can act as supporting evidence of your financial stability. It demonstrates that you will not become a financial burden on the US healthcare system if you fall ill. While not a formal requirement, it is a "best practice" that many immigration consultants advise to smooth the application process.

What Kind of Travel Insurance Is Best for the USA?

For USA travel, experts recommend:

• High sum insured (minimum USD 100,000; ideally USD 250,000+)
• Coverage for emergency evacuation
• Cashless hospital network in the U.S.
• Optional cover for pre-existing diseases (if applicable)

Is  Travel Insurance Mandatory for a USA Student?

The rules for students are slightly more complex. If you are wondering whether travel insurance is mandatory for a USA student, you need to look at your specific institution rather than federal law.

F1 and M1 Visas

The US government does not legally require F1 (academic) or M1 (vocational) students to have health insurance. However, almost every US university and college makes it a condition of enrolment. You will likely be unable to register for classes or move into a dormitory without proving you have a policy that meets the school's "waiver" requirements.

J1 Students

J1 students are legally required by the Department of State to maintain health insurance for the entire duration of their programme. Failure to do so can lead to the termination of your visa status.

What Should a USA Policy Include?

If you decide to purchase cover (which you should), ensure it is tailored for the American market. A standard "Worldwide" policy might have low limits that won't touch the sides of a US hospital bill.

Look for:

• High Medical Limits: At least £2 million to £5 million (or $1 million+).
• 24/7 Assistance: A dedicated helpline to navigate the complex US "PPO" (Preferred Provider Organisation) networks.
• Repatriation: This covers the cost of flying you back to the UK in a medical emergency, which can cost over £50,000 on a private air ambulance.
• Crisis Management: Coverage for trip interruptions or legal expenses.

Conclusion

So, is travel insurance mandatory for the USA? Legally, for most, it isn't. But in a country where a broken arm can cost more than a new car, travelling without it is a gamble most people cannot afford to lose. Whether you are a student, a tourist, or a business traveller, securing a high-quality policy is the only way to ensure your American dream doesn't turn into a financial nightmare.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does my UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) work in the USA?

No. The GHIC (and the old EHIC) only provides access to state-provided healthcare in the EU and a few other specific countries. It has no validity in the United States.

2. Can I be refused entry to the US for not having insurance?

Technically, no. If you are on a B2 visa or ESTA, you cannot be refused entry solely for lack of insurance. However, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer might question your ability to pay for your trip if you have no funds and no insurance.

3. Is it cheaper to buy insurance in the UK or the USA?

It is generally much more straightforward and cost-effective to buy your policy in the UK before you depart. UK-based "Worldwide including USA" policies are designed for tourists, whereas US-based "Visitor Insurance" is often more expensive.

4. What happens if I have an accident in the US without insurance?

Hospitals in the US are legally required to stabilize you in a life-threatening emergency, regardless of your ability to pay. However, once you are stable, they will expect payment or proof of insurance. You will be billed for every bandage, tablet, and doctor’s minute, often resulting in a debt that follows you back to the UK.

5. Does travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions in the USA?

Most standard policies exclude pre-existing conditions unless you declare them upfront and pay an extra premium. Because US healthcare is so costly, it is vital to be 100% honest during the application, or your entire policy could be voided.