Do I need American life insurance for the O-1?

No. The O-1 does not require you to hold American life insurance, whether to obtain or to renew the visa. There is no legal obligation in the immigration process to purchase this type of insurance.

The O-1 is designed for individuals who demonstrate extraordinary ability in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or athletics, and the evaluation focuses on that demonstration, not on financial products or insurance policies you may hold.

That said, having life insurance can make sense as part of your personal planning, especially when living outside your home country. It is a choice that depends on your needs and family situation, with no bearing on visa approval.

If you decide to purchase a policy, choose recognized and reputable institutions. And for any requirement in the process, confirm the updated requirements from the official source (USCIS), and avoid anyone promising guaranteed outcomes.

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.