Best Travel Insurance For Parents Visiting USA

Mani Karthik

Entrepreneur. Mentor. Blogger

In my pursuit of getting better & smarter in life,
I share everything I learn, on this blog, so you can make use of it.

I’ve been there, done that.

You are settled in the USA and your parents are visiting from India. They are excited to meet the family.

But they are seniors, with travel difficulties and it’s a 24-hour long flight.

You are anxious.

What happens if the flight gets canceled?

What if they fall sick during the journey?

What if their baggage is lost?

What if they catch a nasty cold during their stay in the US and need medicine?

Questions are plenty. But the answer is one – travel health insurance.

Buying travel insurance is your best option to ensure the safety of your parents visiting USA.

Be it lost luggage, a canceled flight, nasty flu, or an unfortunate event, good travel insurance will cover them.

Well, almost.

Notice how I said “good travel insurance”? That was deliberate.

Most of us buy cheap, inexpensive travel insurance for parents visiting the USA. And, that’s a mistake.

I learned it the hard way.

Travel insurance shouldn’t just look good on paper. It should work when it has to.

  • Help you to find a good Doctor of your choice when sick.
  • Cover the medical expenses.
  • Get refunds if your baggage is lost or your flight is canceled.
  • Cover medical costs if any unfortunate event occurs.

Overall, it gives you peace of mind during your parent’s visit to the USA.

Before diving into the best visitor insurance plans for parents visiting USA, it’s important to understand what visitor insurance is and why you need it.

Visitor insurance is a type of travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events while traveling to the United States. This type of insurance is especially important for visitors who are not covered by any domestic health insurance plan.

But which is the best travel insurance for parents visiting USA?

With so many options available, it can be difficult finding the right plan.

In this article, I’ll share my expert opinion on how to find the right travel insurance for parents visiting the USA.

We’ll discuss travel insurance coverage, plan benefits, compare different plans and find out which is the best travel insurance for parents visiting USA.

Best Travel Insurance for Parents Visiting USA

If you’re short of time and don’t want to go into the details, here’s the summary.

Here are the best travel insurance plans for parents visiting USA.

What about parents visiting USA from India?

The best travel insurance For parents visiting the USA from India is Safe Travels USA.

Why? Scroll down.

I’ve reviewed and compared all the above-mentioned travel insurance plans in-depth.

First off, let me clarify a few things. There are three types of health insurance for visitors in the USA.

a) Travel Insurance b) Health Insurance and c) Visitor Insurance.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a plan you buy to cover specific financial risks and losses while traveling. Lesser losses include lost luggage and major losses include travel cancellations and international medical emergencies.

Health Insurance

Health insurance for the USA covers non-American tourists in case of a medical emergency. These may be due to health difficulties, accidents, or other challenges encountered in the US.

Visitor Insurance

Short Term visitor health insurance is perfect for travelers between employment. If you are a tourist to the USA and want to stay for a short time, you can get short-term health insurance from US insurers.

Essentially all three are similar. Call it health insurance, travel insurance, or even short-term visitor insurance. The underlying coverage is similar, if not the same.

All the insurance plans are meant to cover visiting parents to the USA, against medical emergencies, travel issues, and ambiguities.

My Recommendation
Mani Karthik

When choosing a travel insurance plan for parents, make sure you choose one that covers pre-existing conditions and offers comprehensive coverage. Always check the conditions and fine print before purchasing the plan. Checking with the company’s customer support is a good idea.

But, what are the benefits of buying travel insurance plans for parents?

Well, here are the benefits.

1. Protect against unexpected medical expenses:

Parents might get sick or injured while traveling, and medical expenses can be very expensive in the USA. Travel health insurance can help cover these unexpected costs to some extent. (Recommended plan – Beacon America)

2. Protect against lost or stolen belongings:

Theft can happen anywhere in the world, even in the USA. Having travel insurance can help parents recoup the cost of any lost or stolen belongings during their travel. (Recommended plan – Atlas America)

3. Protect against trip cancellation or interruption:

Sometimes, travel plans change and parents may need to cancel their visit to USA. Travel insurance can reimburse parents for any non-refundable trip costs in such cases.

Overall, travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection for parents visiting the USA.

No one knows what might happen while traveling, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Also read – Best medical insurance for green card holders.

Best travel insurance for parents
How did I come up with this list
I and my team have researched, analyzed, and compared the popular insurance recommendations from the NRI community. Recommendations are based on user reviews.
Criteria for research & Features compared
  • Complaints from users
    I researched customer complaints on all the health insurance plans listed here and got an idea about which is the most disliked plans/providers.
  • Insurance cost
    The cost was an important factor in comparing these health insurance plans.
  • Health Insurance agency’s reputation
    I looked at user reviews online, before deciding on the good and bad health insurance plans/providers.
  • Approval rates
    I looked at how easy or difficult it was to get approved for each plan mentioned here.
  • Network coverage
    I compared network coverage and access for different providers.

I’ve brought my parents to the USA many times on a visit visa.

And I made several mistakes – not buying travel insurance was one of them.

I didn’t think it was necessary.

Why pay so much money on top of already expensive flight tickets?

But that changed later.

I ran an online community for NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) called BackToIndia.com. Many people from the community recommended buying travel insurance for parents when they visited their families in the US.

They also mentioned that you got to purchase travel insurance carefully. You got to read the fine print or you’ll end up buying the wrong plan.

For example, the claim process for some insurance companies is made unnecessarily complex. They get a cold reply from the provider when you call them.

Some travel insurance companies don’t cover pre-existing conditions. Some are not available in all states in the US.

Some are not available for shorter periods of visit.

There are several things like these hidden in the fine print.

My Recommendation
Mani Karthik

Before buying a plan, I recommend you check prices on a price comparison site like this and also with a travel agent.

If you can get a cheaper rate with an agent, that’d be great. But my experience is that you get better prices when you buy travel insurance online.

1. Atlas America

First on my list is Atlas America. And you’ll see this plan mentioned at most places repeatedly.

The Atlas America travel insurance plan is a good insurance plan for visiting parents in the USA for a number of reasons.

It provides comprehensive coverage for medical expenses incurred while abroad (in our case, while Indian parents are visiting USA).

This includes coverage for emergency medical evacuation, hospitalization, and prescription drugs.

The plan also covers expenses related to lost or stolen luggage, trip interruption, and delays.

Atlas America plan offers 24-hour assistance from a team of medical and travel professionals. I’ve found their team to be very responsive and knowledgeable.

Another reason the Atlas America plan is a good choice for visiting parents is that it is very affordable.

For a family of four, the cost of the plan is less than $20 per day. This is a great value considering the high quality of the coverage you receive.

Atlas America is easy to purchase and use (from my experience). You can buy the plan online or over the phone, and it takes only a few minutes.

Once you have bought the plan, you can use it immediately – there is no need to wait.

In summary, the Atlas America travel insurance plan is a great choice for visiting parents USA. It is a comprehensive plan, is affordable, and is easy to use.

Atlas America - Pros and Cons
  • Atlas America travel insurance is a comprehensive plan that offers a wide range of coverage for travelers.
  • The plan includes coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, and more.
  • Atlas America travel insurance also offers 24/7 emergency assistance services.
  • The downside of Atlas America travel insurance is that it is a bit more expensive than other plans on the market.

Atlas America Coverage Details & Benefits

Process to Getting Medical Treatment

  • Show your ID card to the medical attendant.
  • Pay the deductible or copay (if applicable).
  • The medical office may submit bills directly.
  • After the visit, you will need to submit a Claimant’s Statement and Authorization form.

Process to Filing a Medical Claim

  • Submit original, itemized bills, and any payment receipts, and claim form.
  • Claims must be filed within 60 days of the termination date of your plan.

Exclusions in Atlas America Plan

  • Coverage for pre-existing conditions is excluded from coverage.
  • Coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition is excluded when the pre-existing condition is a congenital or chronic condition.
  • Expenses related to cancer of any form are excluded.

Atlas America Cancellation Plan

  • Free to cancel before effective date.
  • $25 fee to cancel on or after effective date.
  • Prorated refund on unused days only.
  • No cancellations if a claim has been filed.

Atlas America Travel Insurance Plan Summary

Type of PlanComprehensive
Administered ByHCCMIS
UnderwriterLloyd's
Min. Coverage5 Days
Max. Coverage364 Days
Coverage AreasUSA, International
RenewableYes
RefundsYes
CancellationPossible
For Visa TypesB1/B2
Available forNon US Residents, US Visitors
ProviderFirst Health Network
Restricted StatesMaryland, Washington, New York
Acute On-Set of Pre-Existing ConditionsCovered
If you’re looking for visitor insurance for parents over 50 years, I’d recommend choosing a comprehensive travel insurance plan that covers pre-existing conditions.

2. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive

Safe Travels USA is another popular comprehensive travel insurance plan with an A-rating, that ticks all the boxes.

Why is it preferred?

It provides medical coverage and emergency services for visitors to the U.S. during their travel and temporary stay outside of their home country.

Coverage duration in this plan is available is from 5 days to 364 days.

While in the U.S, after the deductible is satisfied within the First Health PPO network, the plan will pay 100% of eligible medical expenses up to the policy maximum.

And outside of the network, Safe Travels USA Comprehensive will pay 80% of the first $5,000 in eligible medical expenses. And then 100% thereafter.ย 

It includes emergency medical and evacuation coverage, as well as trip cancellation.

It also provides baggage and personal effects coverage, in case anything gets lost or stolen while your parents are on their trip.

One of the best things about SafeTravels USA is that it offers 24/7 assistance.

The plan is one of the selected few ones that also covers pre-existing medical conditions.

Overall, SafeTravels USA is a great option for anyone looking for comprehensive travel insurance, particularly for parents visiting the USA.

Safe Travels USA is administered by Trawick International.

It is popular with US visitors, especially among parents in the 50+ age group since it provides the most coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. Once you buy the plan, you’ll get a virtual ID card which is good to go.

Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Benefits

  • PPO Network (First health)
  • Deductible Options: In-network – $0, Out of Network – $0, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500 or $5,000.
  • Urgent Care Co-Pay: $30 -If the $0 out of Network Deductible is chosen, there is no co-pay for Urgent Care.
  • Doctor visit: Pays up to $75 – One visit per person per plan period.
  • Emergency Room Illness with no direct Hospital Admission: $200 Co-pay
  • Trip Interruption: $5,000
  • Lost Baggage: $1,000
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment: $25,000
  • Mental or Nervous Disorders: $2,500 per plan period
  • Physiotherapy/Physical Medicine/Chiropractic: $50 per visit per day; up to 10 visits per plan period
  • Dental Treatment: $250 per plan period

Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Plan Summary

Type of PlanComprehensive
Administered ByTrawick International
UnderwriterGBG Insurance Limited
Min. Coverage5 Days
Max. Coverage2 Years
Coverage AreasUSA
RenewableYes
RefundsYes
CancellationPossible
For Visa TypesB1/B2
Available forNon US Residents, US Visitors
ProviderFirst Health Network, Coventry
Restricted StatesMaryland, Washington, New York
Acute On-Set of Pre-Existing ConditionsCovered

3. Visitor Secure

Visitor Secure is a limited travel insurance plan (not comprehensive).

What does it mean?

It provides pre-set amounts for medical coverage and emergency services for visitors to the U.S.

This is different from the much-recommended comprehensive travel insurance plans (like Safe Travels USA). But it saves you money by not adding unnecessary frills to your plan.

Coverage duration in this plan is available from 5 days to 364 days.

After the deductible is paid, this plan will pay up to the mentioned amount in the policy document for each covered treatment or service.

However, this plan does not participate in any PPO network.

This is great because you can visit any doctor or hospital of your choice.ย (Unlike in certain plans like Safe Travels USA, where you can only go to Doctors within a selected network).

VisitorSecure also provides evacuation coverage in the event that you need to be evacuated due to a medical emergency.

Compared to expensive comprehensive plans, Visitor Secure is an economical plan for people visiting the USA for a short time. It offers basic coverage, is low cost, and offers fewer benefits compared to the comprehensive plans.

It is underwritten by Lloyd’s and administered by Tokio Marine HCC Group.

There are some limits and restrictions you need to be mindful of. People from certain states and countries are not eligible for this plan. Check details here.

However, this remains one of the most popular plans (in terms of the number of policies sold) among travelers to the USA.

Safe Travels USA plan may be a better option for those who are looking for comprehensive coverage, while the Visitor Secure plan may be a better choice for those who are looking for more affordable coverage.

Visitor Secure Features & Highlights

  • Coverage for pre-existing conditions is excluded from coverage.
  • Coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition is excluded when the pre-existing condition is a congenital or chronic condition.
  • Expenses related to cancer of any form are excluded.
  • Submit original, itemized bills, and any payment receipts, and claim form.
  • Claims must be filed within 60 days of the termination date of your plan. (Claim form & details).
  • Free to cancel before effective date.
  • $25 fee to cancel on or after effective date.
  • Prorated refund on unused days only.
  • No cancellations if a claim has been filed
  • Toll Free Contact Number : 1-800-605-2282

VisitorSecure Travel Insurance Plan Summary

Type of PlanLimited Coverage
Administered ByHCCMIS
UnderwriterLloyd's
Min. Coverage5 Days
Max. Coverage2 Years
Coverage AreasUSA, International
RenewableYes
RefundsYes
CancellationPossible
For Visa TypesB1/B2
Available forNon US Residents, US Visitors
ProviderAny
Restricted StatesMaryland, Washington, New York
Acute On-Set of Pre-Existing ConditionsCovered

Here is an example of in-patient treatment charges as covered under this plan. (For illustration purposes only, actual charges may vary, please check directly with the company).

4. Safe Travels USA

Safe Travels USA is an excellent and very popular travel insurance plan for parents visiting USA. It can be purchased for 5 days to 1 year and renewed for a total of 2 years.

Safe Travels USA is a comprehensive travel insurance plan that covers you for trip cancellation, interruption, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

It also provides baggage protection and 24/7 assistance. Safe Travels USA is underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

1. The plan provides comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, and other unforeseen expenses.

2. The plan is affordable and easy to purchase.

3. The customer service team is knowledgeable and helpful.

4. The plan is backed by a reputable company.

Safe Travels USA Benefits & Features

  • Plan pays 80% of the first $5,000, then 100% upto the plan maximum
  • Covers doctor visits, X-rays, prescriptions, hospital, surgery and ambulance
  • Coverage for acute on-set of a pre-exisiting medical condition
  • Emergency medical treatment of pregnancy up to $1,000
  • Mental or nervous disorders up to $2,500
  • Physiotherapy/Chiropractic $50 per visit per day up to 10 visits
  • Dental – For injury or emergency alleviation of pain $250

Safe Travels USA Travel Insurance Plan Summary

Type of PlanLimited Coverage
Administered ByTrawick International
UnderwriterGBG Insurance Limited
Min. Coverage5 Days
Max. Coverage1 Year
Coverage AreasUSA
RenewableYes
RefundsYes
CancellationPossible
For Visa TypesB1/B2
Available forNon US Residents, US Visitors
ProviderFirst Health Network, Coventry
Restricted StatesNone
Acute On-Set of Pre-Existing ConditionsCovered

5. Atlas Premium America

One of my favorites – Atlas Premium America is comprehensive, high-end visitor insurance for the USA. Particularly useful for visiting parents.

It participates in the United Healthcare or First Health PPO Network that provides cashless treatment in the US.

In this plan, after you pay the chosen deductible, when you visit providers under the PPO network, Atlas Premium America will pay 100% of the plan maximum for all the covered medical expenses.

Atlas Premium America v/s Safe Travels USA
There are a few key differences between Atlas Premium America travel insurance and Safe Travels USA.

What’s interesting in this plan is that Atlas Premium America covers trip cancellation and interruption for any reason, while Safe Travels USA only covers these if the reason is listed in their policy.

Second, Atlas Premium America offers $500 of travel accident insurance, while Safe Travels USA offers $250,000. Finally, Atlas Premium America provides 24/7 assistance, while Safe Travels USA does not.

6. Beacon America

Beacon America travel insurance is a comprehensive policy that covers a wide range of potential risks for parents visiting USA.

It includes medical and evacuation coverage, as well as protection for your belongings and flight cancellations. What I really like about this travel insurance plan is that you can tailor the policy to your needs, and it also offers some unique benefits, such as 24-hour access to a doctor and concierge services.

Beacon America provides several policy maximums options and it ranges from $25,000 to $1,100,000 for parents visiting USA under the age of 70 years.

For senior citizens above the 70 to 79 age group, the policy maximum choices are $25,000 or $50,000.

And for parents visiting USA aged 80+, it is limited to $12,000.

Here’s a noteworthy point – Most other comprehensive travel insurance plans provide policy maximums such as $50,000, $60,000 and so on.

But Beacon America has unique policy maximums of $60,000, $75,000, $110,000 and so on.

What this means is that you get more coverage compared to similar plans (Atlas America for instance).

Beacon America’s deductible choices are also wide-ranging from $0 to $2,500.

The policy provides coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances that may occur while traveling.

Beacon America travel insurance also offers 24/7 assistance from a team of experienced professionals who can help travelers resolve any issues that may arise while traveling in USA.

Beacon America is a better travel insurance policy for parents visiting USA because it offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost or stolen baggage.

Also read: In-depth review of Patriot America Plus Travel Insurance

7. Visitors Care

Visitors Care administered by IMG Global and underwritten by Sirius International is decent health insurance for visitors to the USA.

It’s basic coverage, low-cost, fewer-benefits plan that offers coverage from 5 days to 12 months.

With the First Health PPO network, you can visit a Doctor under this network. There are some limits to it, as people from certain states (Maryland) and countries are not eligible for this plan.

It is optional to cover pre-existing conditions under this plan (see details).

Visitors Care Travel Insurance Plan Summary

Type of PlanLimited Coverage
Administered ByIMG
UnderwriterSirius International
Min. Coverage5 Days
Max. Coverage1 Year
Coverage AreasUSA, International
RenewableYes
RefundsYes
CancellationPossible
For Visa TypesB1/B2
Available forUS Residents, Non US Residents, US Visitors
ProviderFirst Health Network
Restricted StatesMaryland
Acute On-Set of Pre-Existing ConditionsOptional

8. Patriot America Plus

Patriot America Plus travel insurance is a good travel insurance plan for visiting parents to USA because it covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost or stolen baggage.

Patriot America Plus travel insurance is designed to provide protection for US citizens traveling outside of the United States.

The policy provides medical coverage for unexpected illnesses or injuries, evacuation and repatriation, and travel assistance services. The policy also includes trip interruption and cancelation coverage, as well as lost baggage and personal effects protection.

Patriot America Plus plan from International Medical Group is a comprehensive travel medical insurance plan for non-U.S. citizens who are traveling abroad (to the USA included).

The plan is intended to offer a complete package of international benefits available 24 hours a day to every individual, family, or group of five or more travelers.

It is underwritten by Sirius International and administered by IMG Global.

Patriot America Plus Features & Benefits

  • Maximum limits: $50,000 to $1,000,000
  • Deductible: $0 to $2,500
  • Extensions: Up to 24 continuous months
  • Emergency medical evacuation: $1 million
  • Coinsurance:
    โ€ข In-network: IMG pays 100%
    โ€ข Out-of-network: IMG pays 80% up to $5,000, then 100%
  • Acute onset of pre-existing conditions: Under 70 years of age, up to the maximum limit. $25,000 maximum limit for medical evacuation
  • Remote transportation: No coverage
  • Supplemental accident: No coverage
  • Offers comprehensive coverage. (See difference between comprehensive & limited coverage)
  • Affordable premium.
  • Acute onset of pre-existing conditions coverage available up to selected plan maximum.
  • Good PPO network.
  • Deductible should be satisfied only once per plan period.
  • Renew, cancel or refund online. (How to renew travel insurance)
  • For travelers over 80 years, there’s a maximum limit of $10,000.
  • Renewable is possible only after 30 days of purchase.
  • $50 Applicable for cancellation.

Patriot America Plus Travel Insurance Plan Summary

Type of PlanComprehensive
Administered ByIMG
UnderwriterSirius International
Min. Coverage5 Days
Max. Coverage2 Years
Coverage AreasUSA, International
RenewableYes
RefundsYes
CancellationPossible
For Visa TypesB1/B2
Available forNon US Residents, US Visitors
ProviderUnited Healthcare
Restricted StatesNone
Acute On-Set of Pre-Existing ConditionsCovered

Ok.

How does Travel insurance work?

Visitor travel insurance is designed to protect non-U.S. citizens traveling to the United States for business or pleasure. The policies provide coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unexpected emergencies that may occur while traveling.

When you purchase travel insurance, you are essentially buying a safety net in case something goes wrong while you are away from home.

The specifics of what is covered by your policy will depend on the insurer and the type of policy you purchase, but in general, travel insurance can help protect you from financial losses due to canceled trips, lost or stolen baggage, medical emergencies, and more.

If you need to cancel your trip for any reason, travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses like airfare and hotels. If your baggage is lost or stolen, travel insurance can help cover the cost of replacing it.

And if you get sick or injured while on your trip, travel insurance can help pay for emergency medical care and evacuation.

Of course, no one wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their vacation. But travel insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case something does go wrong.

Pre-existing conditions

Pre-existing conditions are any medical conditions that you have before you purchase travel insurance.

Many travel insurance policies will not cover pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to understand what they are and how they might affect your coverage.

Pre-existing conditions can include anything from a cold or the flu to a more serious chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease.

If you have any medical conditions, be sure to check with your travel insurance provider to see if they are covered.

Some policies may have exclusions for certain types of pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to read the fine print.

If you’re purchasing travel insurance, you’ll likely be asked to disclose any pre-existing conditions you have. It’s important to be honest about your health so that you can get the coverage you need.

If you’re not honest about your health and a claim is denied, you may not be able to get your money back.

Did you know?
Mani Karthik

If you have a pre-existing condition, it’s important to choose a travel insurance policy that covers your condition. You should also make sure that the policy has a high enough coverage limit to cover the cost of your medical treatment.

If your parents are above 50 years old and have pre-existing medical conditions, here are the best travel insurance plans I’d recommend.

Also read: How to choose the best travel insurance online

What is acute onset of pre-existing conditions?
Any sudden and/or unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition (as listed by the insurance company) which occurs spontaneously and without advance warning is defined as acute onset of a pre-existing condition. It usually occurs in a short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires immediate care.

Buy Travel Insurance from US or India?

Apart from US companies (the ones mentioned above), there are a few Indian visitors insurance companies as well, that provide visitors insurance for visitors to the USA from India.

I personally wouldn’t recommend these health insurance companies for parents visiting the USA from India, because most of the time, they are only good on paper but won’t be of help in actual situations.

Share these with your parents visiting USA from India.

Is Travel insurance Mandatory in the USA?

No. According to US laws, travel insurance is not mandatory for traveling to the USA.

Travel insurance is intended to cover the following expenses while you are in a foreign land…

  • Trip cancellations
  • Medical expenses
  • Baggage loss
  • Flight cancellations

Having said that, not every travel insurance plan covers everything. Please check the exclusions and benefits of each plan before purchasing.

I recommend buying travel insurance when traveling to the USA because…

  • It covers medical expenses.
  • It covers contingencies like flight cancellations & lost baggage.
  • It gives you peace of mind.

Visitors insurance rightly falls into two categories: Comprehensive and Limited – Read this article to understand each type of visitor insurance.

Does travel insurance cover trip cancellation?

Let’s see what trip cancellation plans cover.

In case you need to cancel your trip for valid reasons prior to your departure,  this plan will help you with the reimbursement of your pre-paid non-refundable portion of your trip cost. Additionally, it covers many more aspects like

Trip interruptions – This is a situation wherein the traveler is constrained to return home from the trip early due to covered reasons like home on fire or flood, or relatives passed away, etc.

Emergency medical expenses & medical evacuation – This is the coverage given to the traveler if he/she falls sick while on travel and this is helpful in a way to reduce your expenses as your domestic medical insurance might end up making you pay a higher deductible or coinsurance. Why risk it?

Repatriation of remains – If you were to pass away while on your trip, these benefits will pay for sending the remains back to the homeland.  Let such incidents never happen to any of us.

Baggage – There are policies that may cover things such as loss of checked luggage, baggage delay up to a maximum amount, etc. Some may just pay you the additional expenses incurred due to the fact that you lost your luggage and ask the traveler to collect the payment from the travel providers which will be the airline because they are responsible for the loss.

Best Travel Insurance for USA

Recommended Plans

Who should get Travel insurance

Travel insurance or short-term medical insurance is available for all kinds of visitors to the US such as..

– International Students ( F1/F2 Visa holders)

– Exchange Program Students ( J1 / J2 Visa holders): These are students who are traveling to the USA on an exchange program from their parent country for a few business days.

Visitors to US or tourists: Now this type can be your parents, siblings, cousins, or friends who are visiting the USA as part of a leisure trip.

– Long-term work visa holders: These are professionals who migrate to the USA on H1 / H4 ( spouses or dependents of H1 visa holders).

– Short-term work visa holders: Professionals who migrate to the US for a shorter duration in L1/L2 ( spouse or dependents of L1 visa holders).

How to claim travel insurance

Claiming your medical insurance is a fairly straightforward process in the USA. Make sure you call the provider immediately or within 24 hours of an emergency.

You will need to provide them with documentation of your losses. This may include receipts, canceled tickets, medical records, and more. Your insurer will then review your claim and determine if you are eligible for reimbursement.

If you’re not sure if you have a valid claim, it’s best to contact your insurer and ask. They will be able to review your policy and help you understand what is covered. Travel insurance claims can be complex, so it’s important to have all the facts before you begin the process.

What if your claim gets denied?

If you’re denied a travel insurance claim, the first step is to find out why.

The insurance company should give you a written explanation of their decision.

Once you know why your claim was denied, you can decide whether to appeal the decision or not. If you have new evidence that wasn’t considered when your claim was originally denied, it’s worth submitting an appeal.

If you don’t have any new evidence, you might still be able to negotiate with the insurance company.

For example, if your claim was denied because you missed a connecting flight and had to buy a new ticket, the insurance company might be willing to reimburse you for half of the cost of the new ticket.

If you’re not able to get the insurance company to budge, your only other option is to sue. This is usually a last resort, since it’s expensive and time-consuming.

My friend’s mother faced this situation. She landed in the US with a medical condition that was actually cured earlier and was never supposed to relapse. The climatic conditions triggered her illness and unfortunately, it was not accounted for as a new illness.

The solution to this situation was to make an appeal on the matter by providing evidence to contest the denial of the claim. The evidence can consist of a written statement from your family physician stating that the medical condition was cured and did not exist before the travel date or start date of the current insurance.

There is a good chance that the claim will be paid if the documents are clear. It totally depends on the credibility of the evidence.

Also read: Best medical insurance for pre-existing conditions

The best place to buy visitor insurance is online. There are websites like insubuy.com that offer customer support and assistance to buy travel insurance.

Related: Where to buy travel insurance online?

Can I deduct my parent’s travel medical insurance I paid for?

Generally, you can only deduct medical expenses that you have paid.

What travel insurance should I buy for parents traveling to the US?

I will recommend Safe Travels USA Comprehensive. The best travel insurance for parents traveling to the US will vary depending on their individual needs and circumstances.

However, some factors that parents should consider when choosing travel insurance include coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage, and 24/7 assistance.

Should parents get travel insurance before US interviews?

It is not mandatory to buy travel insurance before a US visa interview but it is a “good to have”.

Does travel insurance cover a medical emergency of parents?

Some travel insurance policies will cover the cost of a medical emergency for your parents, but it is important to check the terms and conditions of your policy to be sure.

Which medical insurance is the best for my parents traveling to the USA?

There is no definitive answer to this question as there are many different types of medical insurance and what may be the best for one person may not be the best for another person.

Some factors that you may want to consider when choosing a medical insurance plan for your parents include their age, health, and travel itinerary.

You may also want to compare different plans to see which one offers the most comprehensive coverage and the best value.

What deductible should we choose for parents’ travel insurance?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, such as the parents’ age, health, and travel destination.

Some parents may feel comfortable with a higher deductible in order to save on premiums, while others may prefer a lower deductible in case they need to make a claim.

What is the cost of traveler’s insurance for parents visiting the US?

The cost of travel insurance depends on a number of factors, including the age and health of the parents, the length of their stay, and the activities they plan to undertake while in the United States.

However, a typical travel insurance policy for parents visiting the US for a short period of time might cost around $100-$200.

How is the travel insurance claim process?

One of the things many of us forget while buying travel/visitor insurance is the claim process. In a recent study, we did it was observed that most people who buy visitor insurance do not use the claim process.

For the same reason, there are many stigmas and misconceptions associated with the visitor insurance claim process.
Here are some important things you need to know about the travel/visitor insurance claim process.

You might need a Doctor’s certificate to claim trip cancellations.
And it’s best if you just don’t go about getting it randomly. But follow the standard template issued by the insurance company.

Keep documentation of everything. Tickets, doctor visits etc. They will be useful during claim process.
If something unfortunate happens, contact your insurance company immediately, rather than waiting.
Provide proof of loss in case of any physical damage (ex: baggage loss).

Where to buy travel insurance from?

I recommend buying visitor insurance online from websites like Insubuy and Visitcover.

Should I purchase travel insurance from India or the USA?

I would recommend buying visitor insurance from the USA or online, and not India as most of the plans from India are just good on paper.

Is Atlas America legit? Is Atlas America insurance good for parents visiting the USA?

Yes. Atlas America is one of the most popular visitor insurance plans for parents.

Can US visitors get health insurance?

Yes. US Visitors can get health insurance but they have to buy it before they travel. Not after reaching the USA. The best health insurance for US visitors are Atlas America and Safe Travels USA Comprehensive.

Which travel insurance is best for parents?

In my experience, comprehensive travel/health insurance plans are best for parents as they have better cover and consider pre-existing conditions.

Which is the best travel insurance covering pre-existing conditions?

Regular travel/visitor insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. Here are the health insurance policies that cover pre-existing conditions. Please make sure that you read the exclusions and benefits thoroughly before purchasing.

How much does travel health insurance cost?

Visitors insurance can cost anywhere from $200 to $2000 depending on your duration of stay in the USA, age, activities involved, and whether or not you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Which is the best health insurance for visitors to USA?

The best health insurance for visitors to USA is Atlas America, administered by WorldTrips and from Lloyd’s insurance company.

What I learned from buying visitors insurance for parents visiting US!
  • Travel insurance is not a must, but highly recommend and useful.
  • It’s better if you buy/activate the plan before boarding flight.
  • It’s better to get an insurance plan from US company.
  • Cheapest plan is not always the best. Do your research well.
  • Buying online has its benefits. Use the comparison engines.
  • Comprehensive coverage plans are better than limited coverage ones.

Related: Do you need travel insurance when traveling to USA

Disclosure: Some of the products mentioned here are linked to their product pages/websites with an affiliate link. If you make a purchase from the websites, this blog might earn a commission from the sale, without affecting the cost of the product or any other additional charges.

If you have any questions, please ask in the comments and I’ll be happy to answer.

84 thoughts on “Best Travel Insurance For Parents Visiting USA”

  1. All the insurance plans mentioned in this article are useless if your parents have preexisting condition. Everything will be tied to preexisting condition and you will not be paid. I would suggest to go for INF plans. They are costly but you will have peace of mind on any unfortunate incident.

  2. What an amazing resource! Thanks for putting this together MK.

    I was looking to buy travel insurance for my parents visiting US, and found it very useful. You should add more info about claims if possible.

    Thank you.

  3. Hi Bala, I’d recommend Atlas America, Patriot America Plus or Safe Travels. Please compare them. It’s usually unfair to be recommending anything without context but I’d let you be the judge. All the best! ๐Ÿ™‚

  4. I am looking to take health insurance for my parents in India , Do you have any suggestions as there ages are 55 and 60 years old ?

  5. Hi Mani,
    Thank you so much for your time and effort in compiling this information for us all! It is very much appreciated! This is such a complex topic, and there is no answer that fits everyone. Yet you have tried to provide information that can be used by so many people. All best wishes to you!

  6. Are you referring to a group who are part of a forum or everyone who has moved back ๐Ÿ™‚
    I have immense respect for people who have moved back and running cool startups and contributing to the Indian ecosystem!

    What I meant was, in my first note, the travel insurance purchased from India, how are they compared to the ones purchased in US?

  7. Hi Mani
    You are doing absolutely amazing work!
    Thankyou so much!

    I see great questions by everynoe as well about insurance plans in India
    I understand that its better to get coverage here

    However, do you have a post about folks who may have purchased insurance from India( ICICI, New India etc) in the last 2-3 years – just want to get perspective – thank you so much

    Best Regards
    Sneha

  8. My mother-in-law is visiting the US from Pakistan and is 84. She does not have any pre-existing conditions and will be visiting for 4 months. Last year she visited and we used Safe Travels USA Comprehensive, but I don’t see that on your list anymore. Which plan would you recommend?

  9. Hi Karthik,

    Useful article. I’m curious if you know who took one of the above plans (ex: Atlas America) and actually visited a physician here. For new and/or pre-existing conditions. Bcz, I see that everyone is taking the plans but not sure how effective these plans are.

  10. hi Mani,

    Firstly, thanks a lot for this information.
    I have some confusion between travel insurance and medical insurance. Is one a subset of other?

    My parents are planning at visit in May. My mother has no pre-existing conditions, but my father is a diabetic. But both are relatively healthy (they are aged 58 and 60 respectively). I am not sure which one provides a good coverage. Do you mind providing your suggestion here.

    Thanks,
    Uday

  11. Dear Reader, cover america-gold have the undesired process of pre-Certification for inpatient treatment also (the main purpose of insurance is expense during a situation of being an inpatient).

    Coveramerica-gold is advertised highly in many review pages and the pre-certification for inpatient is not mentioned as disadvantage (even in this page, not even a single disadvantage for Coveramerica-gold). Beware !!

    In an emergency where you need an inpatient treatment would you wish to think about the recovery or the following list of activity as mentioned in the Coveramerica-gold insurance brochure ( https://www.visitorscoverage.com/brochure/coveramerica-gold-insurance-brochure.pdf ).

    Check 3rd point, will you ask a Doctor about recovery or will you ask a Doctor to FULLY cooperate with the insurance company at the emergency moment. According to insurance what does FULLY means, this one word is enough to reject your claim.

    To comply with the pre-certification requirements, you must do the following:
    1. Contact Seven Corners Assist at the telephone number on your ID card as soon as possible before the expense is incurred;
    2. Comply with Seven Corners Assistโ€™s instructions and submit any information or documents they require;
    3. Notify all physicians, hospitals and other providers that this insurance contains pre-certification requirements and ask them to fully cooperate with Seven Corners Assist.

  12. Hi Mani,
    What about coverage for new immigrants. My parents are traveling soon on an immigrant visa. Their green card is approved. What plans/options would you recommend for an extended coverage (~3-5 months) on their upcoming visit?

  13. I saw the details. It provides information but could not find what I am looking for. Please suggest a plan for senior citizen age group 75-79 years with Pre existing condition covered. The coverage for pre existing condition should be sufficient for US condition.

    The plan premium should be economical.

  14. These are Visitors Insurance NOT Travel Insurance. Although many use this term interchangebly I think there is a clear distinction. You should consider renaming this title – “Which Is The Best Travel Insurance For Parents Visiting USA?”

  15. Hi Prashant,

    My parents are planning to visit USA on june 2019.My father had also put stent on his chest,so i just wanted to know which insurance plan you had taken for them and is there any issue on plane during travelling.

    Thanks
    Puja

  16. Hi karthik,

    My mother is visiting Calgary Canada for 6 months and we have plan to visit USA for a week or two.

    What would you suggest which insurance company based out of USA or Canada ?? Or any insurance company from india??
    Iโ€™m really confused, my mother is pretty healthy age 55 and donโ€™t have any current issues or medication also did not had any major surgeries or illnesses

    Appreciate your response and help

    Thanks

  17. Sandeep, in this case, I’d be very careful about what I choose. If I were you, I’d call up the customer care number to get a confirmation from the provider on whether or not his conditions will be covered. “Pre-existing conditions” is a grey area and I wouldn’t make any assumptions.

  18. Hi Mani,

    My name is Sandeep. My parents are visiting this week. Dad is 70 and mom is 59. Dad had a surgery in his leg 4 months back and he is now recovering. Currently, he is under physiotherapy but can walk slowly. Dad also had diabetes. Mom does not have any preexisting conditions. They are here in US for 6 months. Which insurance would you suggest?

  19. Prashant, I suggest you dire4ctly call up the provider to double check it. Reading any amount of documents online will not give you the accurate information. This is my experience.

  20. Hi Mani,

    I have a question my Mother-in-law had breast cancer in 2013 She is fine now but are you aware of any insurance which will cover it along with it my Father-in-law had put the stent in the chest so I want one insurance company which cover there pre-existing condition.

    Thanks
    Prashant

  21. Lukan, Atlas America is still popular although there are mixed reviews about it. I think one of the factors that goes into this is that people buy insurance for different purposes and individual choices are many. It’s a good plan that caters to many situations and hence the popularity. However, I agree that there are mixed reviews. I think it is up to the buyer to figure out if it is suited for his personal choice and requirements. Unfortunately, you cannot have a one suit fits all kind of a solution in this space.

  22. Atlas America has 1 star on yelp reviews (and people would have given it 0 stars if that was an option). Whatโ€™s going on? You list them as a bestseller and those who purchased the plan had terrible experience. Any thoughts on this?

  23. Hi Ansu,

    CoverAmerica Gold and Choice America are good options. If you are confused, call up an insurance agent like Visitors Coverage at 1-866-384-9104 and the experts there can help you find a plan that fits your requirements.

  24. Hi Mani,
    I came across your blog and it gives a very good description about travel insurance for USA. But finally I am confused after reading so many plans and benefits.
    Myself aged 58 years and my husband aged 65 will be travelling to Florida this December. We may be doing many road trips in Florida. Please suggest us a good travel insurance which is not very expensive at the same time covering emergency doctor visit and accident emergency . We do not have any pre existing medical problems. We will be staying there for 5 months.
    Please clarify.

  25. What would you suggest for parents aged 62 and 71; both in normal health, just want to buy something that takes care of emergency visits or a doctor’s visit if something comes up?

  26. Rachana, I would recommend you to take a look at policies that cover pre-existing conditions. (https://manikarthik.com/blog/best-visitors-insurance-for-pre-existing-conditions/india/nri/). At the same time, make sure that the conditions you want covered are indeed covered by the policy. A lot of people make the mistake of assuming that all conditions are covered by pre-existing conditions. They are not and only the ones that are listed is covered. Let me know.

  27. Hello Mr Mani,

    I am very happy to find your website with all the details pertaining to Visitor visa inquiries, which every child looking for their parents visiting them in US. Even my parents visiting US in November (during winters for 3 months) with mom aged 57 & dad 65. My mother is diabetic father as leg injury. As per your reference for the previous questions and based on the article, choice america is best option for aged parents with pre existing medical condition. I did read some article about about choice america but it indicates limited coverage of pre existing medical medical conditions. I dont want opt for the comprehensive plans coz only mom as high diabetic issue, I might/might not use the medical insurance. Considering winters (California) I am worried about her diabetic issues. Now I am totally confused, any suggestions from you is welcome

  28. Hi Mani,
    First of all thank you for such a great article. My parents are 64, 65 and planning to visit U.S for 4 months from India. They both have preexisting conditions. Can you please suggest comprehensive insurance for them .

    thanks,
    hari.

  29. More I am seeing and more confusing I am getting into as my parents are diabetic in there 58 and 53 and I don’t want to take a chance ,Could you suggest which coverage is best ?

  30. This is so great. Thank you!
    I don’t suppose you could do a piece on health insurance options for parents while they are in India?

  31. Hi Deepika, Thanks and glad you found the article useful. You already pinged me on WhatsApp so I guess I’ll continue the discussion there and help you out.

  32. Hi Mani,

    First of all Kudos to you for writing such a brilliant piece that encourages discussion and provides such valuable information on various insurance plans for visitors coming to USA. Its so hard for someone who has never had to shop around for insurance to know what is good or not.
    I have been researching for good insurance plans for two of my aunts who are looking to travel to USA soon; one of them is 79 yrs old and the other is 81 yrs old.
    I read your blog and had done some of my preliminary research as well. What I am struggling with is getting a good comprehensive travellers insurance for my aunt who is 81 yrs old. They have pre-existing condition of diabetes mainly and touchwood they are in good health, however for my senior most aunt, I was looking for insurance that would pay the maximum should there be any issue and I am realizing that Safe Travels USA Comprehensive also just covers upto $25000 even if I would get a $100,000 worth of policy where pre-existing conditions were concerned. Now that wasnt making sense to me as if I am getting an insurance and paying a higher premium for getting a policy with pre-existing conditions, then is there a policy that you have come across that does better justice in terms of coverage for those over 80 with pre existing conditions. I know and have heard from my friends that Emergency Care in USA for visitors with just $25000 is barely anything.
    Any guidance and help from you will be appreciated. Thanks

  33. That is sad to hear Rajiv. For clarity, can you tell me what exactly was the medical emergency? (If you don’t mind that is). It’ll be useful for others who are interested in taking Patriot America what is covered and not. Also, what exactly did you mean by hard time for claim? Is it that they didn’t acknowledge your claim at all or did they take too much time? Finally, what happened?

  34. I got patriot america two times when my parents visited us both the times they had medical emergencies here and both times Patriot America gave a very hard time for claim so much so that eventually I just gave up. Has anyone had a good experience with them? I would not recommend them to anyone

  35. Hi MK,

    Which would you say is the best travel insurance to cover (hassle free claim) a short term (~1 month) visit from USA to India. Traveler is an Indian citizen working in USA?

  36. Hi! I just read very useful information about traveler’s insurance on your blog. My many relatives gets insurance from India before they come here. Does it work here? Please let me know.

  37. Hi Sri,

    I suggest you check out comprehensive plans with pre-existing conditions coverage. Like CoverAmerica Gold, Atlas America, Patriot America etc. It’s tricky when it comes to pre-existing conditions, I usually recommend my friends to check with the provider first hand and not trust any other source.

  38. Hi Mahesh,

    Have you checked out the ones I listed here? I don’t think it’s fair to suggest any one plan as each have their own benefits. Check out CoverAmerica Gold, Atlas America, Patriot America and ChoiceAmerica.

  39. Hi Mani,

    My mother will be traveling from India to USA, staying here for 6 months. She doesn’t have any pre-existing diseases. However, I don’t want to take any risk and want to take full coverage insurance which covers everything with a minimum deductible possible. Please suggest few companies or insurance plans which I opt for .

    Regards,
    NM

  40. Hi Karthik
    Fantastic work on the article! We have family visiting in the U.S with pre-existing asthma and mild hearing loss and plan to get specialist doctors advice in San Francisco bay area. Any recommendation on visitor insurance with comprehensive network and coverage within the U.S?

    Thanks
    Srinivas

  41. Hi Karthik.
    My in-laws will be visiting the US in June. My father-in-law is 83 and has pre-existing conditions. Can you please recommend a plan which has good coverage for seniors over 80?
    Thanks

  42. Very Good stuff!!. Thank you. ๐Ÿ™‚

    “In-depth review here” link under ICICI Lombard is pointed to HDFC.

  43. Thanks karthik , any guess how much could be premium under coverAmerica gold plan for one person? Knowing the range it varies would also help. They are planning to visit for a month

    Regards,

    Nitin

  44. Hello Sir,

    1. I’d recommend Cover America Gold.
    2. Different companies work differently but previous health record would suffice. Although you might not need it at the time of buying the insurance.
    3. Yes, you can but it will take some time for you to get it. Meanwhile, I suggest you get temporary medical insurance.

    Please feel free to call up the corresponding insurance companies toll free number. Most of them are very well answered and will clear your doubts (with little nuances even).

    Wish you safe travels. Enjoy your stay! Feel free to ask if you have any doubts.

  45. Dear Kartik
    Myself and my wife will be visiting SFO for 90days in first week of April We will be staying with our son and daughter who are Citizens
    I am 80 and my wife is 75
    We donโ€™t have any prexiting problem No Heart Kidney Neuro Diabetes problems
    1 Which Insurance plan we should have 2 What proof we can we give If Companies say these were prexiting ??
    3 If apply and get Green card Will Obama care we can buy Premium for that and Advantage etc
    I am Internal Medicine Doctor MD from India

  46. Hi Karthik

    First of all, truly outstanding effort on your web site. It is impressive & extremely useful. My mother-in-law, who is already 75 years old is visiting from India. I am looking at Patriot America Plus Travelerโ€™s Insurance and Liaison Continent International. Patriot America looks better in terms of coverage, but their benefit details document has pages & pages filled with legal hoops and legal protection. Cumbersome process to appeal a claim, legal matters has to be in Indiana, etc. None of this matters if they have a good track record of settling claims without subjecting claimants to undue hardship. Have you heard anything from people who had to submit claims due to medical issues? Any idea what it is like to deal with Patriot America?

    The Liaison Continent benefits document on the other hand has a lot less legal verbiage and disclaimers. Downside is that it seems to have a lot less, maybe non-existent coverage regarding pre-existing conditions for people over 70. Reading their benefits documents, it sounds like they may be easier to deal with in case of a claim.

    Regards,

    Raj

  47. Hi Maruthi,

    I suggest you take insurance from US companies since they are much easier to work with and offer better services. Yes, ChoiceAmerica and Liaison Continent are good plans suitable for elders with pre-existing conditions and cover US and Canada. I would suggest both of these plans.

    All the best, wishing them a safe trip! Let me know if you have any questions. ๐Ÿ™‚

  48. hi Karhik,

    I live in LA too. Thanks for your Blog. Lots of useful information. My mother-in-law is visiting us in Jan 2018, her trip is for 5 months. She is diabetic, which insurance is likely good for her. Last time when she visited we took ICICI lombard, but we don’t have much knowledge that how to visit a doctor when she had problem with her sugar levels. Is all insurance cover the LA hospitals like PPO plans? is there any idea>
    Of the note, if she is visiting canada, is there any insurance plan that covers US and Canada trips?!

    Thanks
    Maruthi

  49. Hi Anand,

    It would be very unfair for me to say which one plan is best for you. You have to find the right one that suits you, but I can help. The thing is, there are several plans available to pick from, based on your requirements. Like how long the stay is, what kind of coverage you need, the age of your parents etc.

    And as you rightly mentioned, there are these third part websites that lets you choose a good plan filtering from the big list. Both Visitorscoverage and Insubuy are good websites that gives a lot of insights on which plan to choose from. Visitorscoverage is more popular but Insubuy has been around for a longer time. Some plans are common between the two as well. I’ll let you make the choice.

  50. My parents are traveling from India to USA for 3 months. Which is the best insurance for them?
    Also, how reliable is Visitorscoverage v/s Insubuy? Which site is better?

  51. MK, This is useful blog with good information! But the answer for the FAQ 2 is to b reviewed, as far as I know for a Permanent Resident/Green Card holder is NOT repeat NOT eligible to apply for any visa which will facilitate the parents to live permanently in US. Below is the extract from your link…..

    Bringing Parents to Live in the United States as Permanent Residents
    Eligibility

    To petition for your parents (mother or father) to live in the United States as green card holders, you must be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. Green card holders (permanent residents) may not petition to bring parents to live permanently in the United States.

  52. Hi Prasad,

    You just need your parents details like passport number etc. On the websites I mentioned, you can pretty much select and choose what insurance plan to buy and get it online, all in one go. You can then send the soft copies to your parents, who can carry it with them, taking a print out.

    All the best!

  53. A very useful blog,especially for first time travellers to US.
    I appreciate the fund of information compiled by the blogger Mr.ManiKarthik
    with valuable inputs by Sruthi Menon.

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