Travel insurance is essential for any trip to the USA. Medical costs in America are extremely high - a simple hospital visit can cost $5,000-$10,000, and a major emergency can exceed $100,000. Having comprehensive travel insurance protects you from financial disaster and is highly recommended for US visa applications.
Why You Need Travel Insurance
Extremely High Medical Costs
US healthcare is the most expensive in the world. An ambulance ride alone costs $1,000+.
Visa Application Support
While not mandatory, travel insurance strengthens your B1/B2 visa application.
Trip Protection
Covers flight cancellations, lost baggage, and trip interruptions.
COVID-19 Coverage
Most plans now cover COVID-19 treatment and quarantine expenses.
Top 7 Travel Insurance Compared
ICICI Lombard Travel Smart
Pros
- ✓ High coverage limit
- ✓ Fast claim settlement
- ✓ Good network hospitals
Cons
- ✗ Slightly higher premium
- ✗ Limited adventure sports
Bajaj Allianz Travel Guard
Pros
- ✓ Affordable premium
- ✓ Good customer service
- ✓ Easy online purchase
Cons
- ✗ Lower coverage limit
- ✗ Some exclusions
HDFC ERGO Travel Insurance
Pros
- ✓ Comprehensive coverage
- ✓ Pre-existing disease option
- ✓ Trip delay cover
Cons
- ✗ Premium pricing
- ✗ Complex claim process
Tata AIG Travel Guard
Pros
- ✓ Most affordable
- ✓ Simple process
- ✓ Good for short trips
Cons
- ✗ Basic coverage
- ✗ Limited add-ons
Reliance General Travel Care
Pros
- ✓ Competitive pricing
- ✓ Adventure sports cover
- ✓ Good add-ons
Cons
- ✗ Slower claims
- ✗ Less network hospitals
Care Health Travel Insurance
Pros
- ✓ Lowest premium
- ✓ Simple plans
- ✓ Quick issuance
Cons
- ✗ Lower coverage
- ✗ Basic benefits
SBI General Travel Insurance
Pros
- ✓ Trusted brand
- ✓ Easy for SBI customers
- ✓ Good support
Cons
- ✗ Average coverage
- ✗ Limited customization
How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance mandatory for US visa?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US B1/B2 visa. However, it is highly recommended because US medical costs are extremely high. Having insurance also shows financial preparedness to the visa officer.
How much coverage do I need for USA trip?
We recommend minimum $300,000 coverage for USA trips. A single hospitalization can easily cost $50,000-$100,000 in America. The premium difference between $100K and $500K coverage is usually just ₹500-1,000.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Most basic policies exclude pre-existing conditions. However, insurers like HDFC ERGO and ICICI Lombard offer add-on coverage for pre-existing conditions at additional premium. Declare all conditions honestly.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Buy travel insurance as soon as you book your flights. This ensures trip cancellation coverage from day one. At minimum, purchase before your visa appointment.
Does travel insurance cover visa rejection?
Most comprehensive policies cover visa rejection under trip cancellation. Check the policy terms - some require you to show visa rejection letter and have booked non-refundable tickets.
Disclosure: Prices and coverage details are indicative and may change. Please verify with the insurer before purchasing. Times of Visa may earn a commission from purchases made through affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.