Why the USA is different
American hospitals bill uninsured foreigners at list price: roughly $2,500 for an ER visit, $11,000+ per inpatient day, $30,000+ for an appendectomy, and six figures for cardiac events or trauma. No other destination turns a routine mishap into bankruptcy-scale numbers this reliably.
That is why our recommendation engine treats $250,000 medical as the recommended level for US trips, and why $50,000 plans that are generous for Asia look thin in New York.
Two ways to insure a US trip from India
Route one: Indian insurer plans (Tata AIG Travel Guard Gold/Platinum, ICICI Lombard Gold and similar) — bought in INR, US-ready sums up to $500,000, and familiar claim support at home. Best for tourists and family visits up to 180 days.
Route two: US visitor-medical plans (IMG Patriot America Plus, Seven Corners Travel Medical USA) — bought in USD from anywhere, with the decisive advantage of US PPO network direct billing: the hospital bills the insurer, not your family. Best for parents visiting children and long stays.
What US-bound travellers should check
Acute-onset pre-existing cover matters most for travellers over 50 — it is what pays when a known condition flares suddenly. Check the sub-limit and the age at which it steps down (often 70).
Deductible choices change premiums meaningfully on visitor plans: a $250 deductible cuts premiums sharply versus $0 while keeping catastrophic protection identical. For US residents insuring their own trips, comprehensive plans (Allianz, Travel Guard, Seven Corners, Travelex) bundle cancellation with medical — see our single-trip page.
Apply this to your actual trip
Run an instant comparison, or tell our consultants the trip — they’ll shortlist plans and confirm live premiums with the insurers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much medical cover do I need for the USA?
$100,000 is a reasonable minimum for young, healthy visitors; $250,000 is the sensible standard; parents 60+ visiting for months justify $250,000–500,000. The premium difference between tiers is small relative to the protection gap.
Is travel insurance mandatory for a US visa?
No — B1/B2 and ESTA entry do not require insurance. It is optional and, given US medical pricing, more valuable than anywhere it is mandatory.
What is network direct billing?
US visitor plans from IMG and Seven Corners plug into PPO hospital networks: show your insurance ID, the hospital bills the insurer directly, and you pay only your deductible instead of fronting thousands and claiming back.
Keep reading
Premiums shown are indicative estimates compiled from publicly available plan literature and typical market rates — the final premium, terms and issuance are always set by the insurer. Plan benefits, limits and exclusions are summarised for comparison; the policy wording issued by the insurer is the only binding document. Confirm current terms with the insurer or our consultants before purchase.