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Do I need specific health insurance for the O-1?

The O-1 does not require a specific health insurance plan, but solid coverage is almost essential in the U.S., where medical bills can add up quickly. Some employers may also require a plan.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 17, 2026
1 min read
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The O-1 does not require the holder to obtain health insurance with any specific characteristics for immigration purposes. There is no mandatory policy tied to this visa as a condition for it to be granted or maintained.

That said, having solid health coverage is highly recommended. Medical care in the United States can be expensive, and a good plan makes a real difference in emergencies or during treatment, especially for longer stays.

Keep in mind that, even though health insurance is not a visa requirement, some institutions or employers may ask that you carry an adequate health plan. Be sure to review the terms of your employment or service contract.

Since conditions vary by plan and contract, take time to evaluate your options carefully and, if needed, seek specialized guidance to choose the coverage that best fits your situation.

Learn more about O-1

Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Initial validity
3 years
Extension
1 year at a time (unlimited)
Processing
2-4 months
All about O-1

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.

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Do I need specific health insurance for the O-1?

The O-1 does not require a specific health insurance plan, but solid coverage is almost essential in the U.S., where medical bills can add up quickly. Some employers may also require a plan.

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