Visiting Scholar/Visiting Student Researcher Health Benefits and Resources

Health Insurance Requirements for International Visiting Researchers at UC Berkeley

As an international Visiting Scholar (VS) or Visiting Student Researcher (VSR), you are required to have health insurance for the duration of your appointment.

All International Visiting Scholars holding a J1 Visa must meet all the insurance policy requirements below:

  • $100,000 USD per accident & illness in medical coverage
  • A deductible not to exceed $500 USD per accident or illness
  • Coinsurance that does not exceed 25%
  • Medical evacuation coverage must be at least $50,000 USD
  • Repatriation coverage must be at least $25,000 USD
  • Pre-existing conditions must be covered by the insurance policy, with a waiting period of no more than 12 months.
  • The carrier must be at least A- rated or backed by the full faith and credit of the Exchange Visitor's government

Most international visitors fulfill this requirement by purchasing health insurance through the Gallagher Benefit Services (GBS) Visiting Scholar Benefits Plan (VSBP). 

1. Fulfilling the Requirement via Gallagher (VSBP)

VSBP offers three plan tiers, all of which fully meet the U.S. Department of State insurance mandates for J-1 Visa holders: 

  • Basic Plan: Features the lowest monthly premium but higher out-of-pocket co-insurance costs. Please note: The Basic plan does not cover preventive care (including immunizations) or mental/behavioral health disorders.

  • Standard Plan: Features a moderate monthly premium with lower out-of-pocket costs for care than the Basic plan.

  • Premium Plan: Features the most comprehensive coverage. Many visitors find this tier the most beneficial while residing in the U.S., particularly families and those on longer-term stays.

Note: Voluntary dental and vision insurance plans are also available through the VSBP.

2. Enrollment Timelines & Deadlines

  • Pre-Enrollment:  New scholars and students can enroll 30 to 45 days prior to their official appointment start date.

  • Hard Deadline: You must enroll in a plan within 31 days of your appointment start date. Failure to enroll on time will prevent you from receiving benefits for the current plan year.

3. Waiving the VSBP

If you choose to purchase an independent health insurance policy rather than using Gallagher, you must complete the official waiver process. If you waive the school plan, you are legally responsible for ensuring your independent insurance fully meets all Department of State J-1 requirements.

4. Special Note for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

Visiting Scholars who are U.S. Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders) are not eligible to purchase a VSBP plan. Instead, they are subject to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) domestic insurance requirements. These individuals must secure their own independent health insurance and are not required to submit proof of insurance to the VSPA office.

Insurance Talk Tuesdays with Gallagher Benefit Services

Join Gallagher Benefit Services for the new recurring Insurance Talk Tuesdays to learn about insurance terminology, the U.S. healthcare system, and the benefits available under the visiting scholar plans offered by Gallagher. Spouses and partners are welcome to attend. Ask questions and connect with the Visiting Scholar Account Manager at 12:30pm PST / 3:30pm EST. No registration necessary.

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Resources

NEW! VSBP Insurance 101 Webinar Presentation: Check out this presenetation slide deck for detailed information about your Visiting Scholar Benefit Plan (VLSB) and how to use it.

For information about the VSBP plans, please contact:

Candace M Neeson
Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc.
University Student and Scholar Services 
Account Manager/Client Services
Tel: 800.261.7109 |844.243.0027
Email: Candace_neeson@ajg.com