Do I need health insurance for the L-1?

From an immigration standpoint, there is no legal requirement to have health insurance in order to obtain or maintain the L-1 visa. Approval is based on your tie to the company and the nature of the transfer, not on enrollment in a health plan.

In practice, however, having coverage is a sensible decision. The U.S. healthcare system is known for being expensive, and an emergency or unexpected procedure can result in very high bills for those who are unprotected.

• Many companies already include a health plan in the relocation package, so it is worth confirming what your employer offers.
• If that benefit is not provided, purchasing a private insurance plan is typically the safest way to protect yourself during the transition.
• Be sure to account for any dependents who accompany you under derivative status.

In summary, health insurance is not a requirement for the L-1, but it is an important protection. Evaluate the available options and, if you have questions about coverage, consult official sources or seek specialized guidance.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.