Travel Insurance For USA From India: Buy USA Travel Insurance Online|ICICI Lombard
Close ILTakeCare Suggestion
IL TakeCare app – For all your insurance & wellness needs

Policy purchase, claims, renewal & more

Introduction

The United States of America is a behemoth in every sense of the word. Whatever you’ve seen elsewhere, the country does it more spectacularly, with a unique sense of flair you won’t find anywhere else.

If you’ve found yourself enchanted by the country’s roads, skylines, and people, you’ll need something that matches its scale. After all, for all its glittering appeal, it’s just as prone to typical travel emergencies, and it also has some of the most expensive healthcare in the world. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars.

Travel insurance for the USA acts as your financial safety net, covering medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and more, so your holiday stays a holiday instead of turning into a cautionary tale.

USA Travel Insurance Secure Your USA Trip
What Is Travel Insurance for USA?

What Is Travel Insurance for USA?

Travel insurance for the USA is a policy designed to protect you against financial losses arising from medical emergencies and other travel-related risks during your trip.

It typically covers hospitalisation, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and more. Since the USA does not have a universal healthcare system, medical expenses for international travellers can be steep. A travel insurance policy ensures you are not footing an unexpected bill in a foreign country.

Types of Travel Insurance for the USA

Depending on your travel plans, there are several types of travel insurance policies to consider.

  • 1

    Single-trip travel insurance: Covers one trip from departure to return. Best suited for travellers visiting the USA once.

  • 2

    Multi-trip travel insurance: Covers multiple international trips in a year. Frequent travellers usually opt for this.

  • 3

    Student travel insurance: This is especially designed for Indian students studying in the USA, covering medical expenses, study interruption, and related risks.

  • 4

    Student travel insurance: Made to protect travellers above 60. These include higher medical coverage limits suited to age-related health needs.

  • 5

    Family or Group travel insurance: Covers multiple travellers in one policy. This means you enjoy a lower per-person cost.

Benefits of Buying Travel Insurance for USA

Travel insurance for the USA offers much more than just medical cover. Here is a quick look at what you gain.

Medical Emergency Coverage

Includes hospitalisation, evacuation, and dental treatment

Trip Cancellation & Interruption

Covers losses due to unexpected events that result in cancellation.

Travel-Related Expenses

Reimburses non-refundable bookings and extra accommodation costs.

Baggage Protection

Compensation for lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, plus essential expenses.

Personal Liability Cover

Protection against third-party injury or property damage claims.

What's Covered Under Travel Insurance for USA from India

As you choose your level of protection, it can be re-affirming to understand what is typically included and what is not.

  • Inclusions
  • Exclusions
  • Emergency medical and hospitalisation expenses

  • Medical evacuation and repatriation

  • Trip cancellation, delay, or curtailment

  • Loss or delay of baggage and/or personal documents

  • Lost or stolen passport

  • Accidental death and permanent disability

  • Personal (third-person) liability cover

  • Emergency cash on theft

  • Events that happen before the trip begins and after it ends

  • Participation in hazardous activities or extreme sport

  • Intentional injuries to oneself, suicide, or intoxication

  • Travel against medical advice, awaiting specific treatments (with terminal prognosis), seeking treatment, or involved in military/naval operations

  • Losses arising from unlawful activities

  • Overseas trips exceeding 90 days on an immigrant visa

Key Features of the USA Travel Insurance

The best travel insurance policy for the USA goes beyond basic coverage. Here is what to look for.

  • No Medical Screenings: Get covered quickly, even for last-minute trips, without lengthy medical checks.
  • High Sum Insured Options: Ensures a strong financial cushion, with individual coverage for each traveller.
  • Cashless Hospitalisation: Access to good healthcare without being needed to pay upfront.
  • Easy Cashless Claims: A simple claims process with minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Medical Evacuation Cover: Covers emergency transportation and evacuation when needed.
  • 24/7 Emergency Assistance: Support at any time and from anywhere during your trip.

With ICICI Lombard’s travel insurance options, you benefit from comprehensive protection and the option to extend your coverage if your trip is prolonged.

Interesting Facts About the USA

The United States is almost sure to surprise even seasoned travellers, its identity shifting in a million vibrant colours. Here are some interesting facts about the USA

  • Many states have twice as many cows as people: Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wyoming.
  • 3 billion pizzas are sold in the country each year. That’s over 8 million a day!
  • The USA does not have an official language. That’s just how diverse it is.
  • The country is the world's largest economy by nominal GDP, generating 26% of global economic output.

Best Time to Visit USA

The ideal time to visit the USA depends heavily on where you are headed and what you want to do.

Season Months What to Expect
Spring March to May Mild weather, fewer crowds, ideal for cities and national parks
Summer June to August Peak tourist season, great for road trips and outdoor activities
Autumn September to November Stunning foliage in the northeast, comfortable temperatures
Winter December to February Ski resorts, holiday markets, colder weather across most states

USA Safety and Precautionary Measures to Be Undertaken

The USA is generally safe for international travellers, though a few basic precautions can make your trip go much more smoothly.

  • Collect digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance.
  • Keep expensive gadgets or jewellery out of sight.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings, always.
  • Keep your insurer's 24/7 emergency helpline number with you at all times.
  • Save the local emergency number: 911
  • Research state-specific laws before you travel, as regulations can vary significantly.

List of International Airports in the USA

Many direct and connecting flights from India arrive at one of these major international airports.

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California
  • Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
  • Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
  • Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado
  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO), Florida
  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), North Carolina
  • Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia/li>
  • Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Nevada
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Arizona
  • Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Minnesota
  • Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan
  • Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts
  • Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), Utah
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Pennsylvania
Popular Destinations in USA

Popular Destinations in the USA

The USA has no shortage of places worth exploring. These are some of the most popular stops for Indian travellers.

  • New York City: Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Fifth Avenue

  • Las Vegas: The Strip, world-class entertainment, Grand Canyon

  • Los Angeles: Hollywood, Universal Studios, Santa Monica boardwalk

  • San Francisco: Alcatraz Island, The Golden Gate Bridge

  • Orlando: Universal Studios, Kennedy Space Centre, Disney World

  • Washington D.C.: The White House, the National Mall, Smithsonian museums

Things to Do in the USA

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for more, the USA always has something new on the table.

  • 1Drive the iconic Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica
  • 2Hike through national parks like Yellowstone or stand at the rim of the Grand Canyon
  • 3Catch a live NBA, NFL, or MLB game
  • 4Explore the museums, galleries, and monuments of Washington D.C.
  • 5Watch a Broadway show in New York City
  • 6Explore history at historic cities like Philadelphia

List of Well-Known Indian Restaurants in the USA

Indian food has a strong and growing presence across the USA. Here are some well-regarded Indian restaurants in the country:

Restaurant City
Junoon New York
Saravana Bhavan New York
Rasika Washington D.C.
Indienne Chicago
Rooh San Francisco
Badmaash Los Angeles

Local Law and Etiquette in the USA

Understanding local norms keeps things comfortable and helps you avoid any unintentional missteps.

  • Tipping is the norm. It’s usually 15 to 20%.

  • The legal drinking age is 21; carry a valid photo ID at all times

  • Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces and indoors across the country

  • Seatbelts are compulsory in all 50 states

  • Jaywalking can result in a fine in several cities

  • Public intoxication is a criminal offence in most states

All Year-Round Essentials for USA

A well-prepared bag makes all the difference. Here is what to keep handy before and during your USA trip.

  • Valid Indian passport with 6 months or more validity beyond your travel dates
  • US B1/B2 visa (or the applicable visa category for your trip)
  • Copies of your travel insurance policy (physical + digital)
  • Universal power adapter (the USA uses Type A and Type B sockets, 120V)
  • US dollars in cash, along with an international debit or credit card
  • Prescription medications with a doctor's certificate
  • Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration and outdoor activities

Indian Embassies in USA

The following are the Indian diplomatic embassies in the United States:

Embassy Website Address
Embassy of India - Washington www.indianembassyusa.gov.in 2107, Massachusetts Ave. Washington, D.C. 20008
Consulate General of India - Atlanta www.indiainatlanta.gov.in 5549 Glenridge Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30342
Consulate General of India - Boston - 90 Canal St Boston, MA 02114
Consulate General of India - Chicago www.cgichicago.gov.in 455 North City Front Plaza Drive, NBC Tower Building, Suite No. 850, Chicago, IL 60611
Consulate General of India - Houston www.cgihouston.gov.in 4300 Scotland Street Houston, TX 77007
Consulate General of India - Los Angeles www.indiainla.gov.in 707 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 4500 Los Angeles, CA 90017
Consulate General of India - New York www.indiainnewyork.gov.in 3 East 64th Street New York, NY 10065
Consulate General of India - San Francisco www.cgisf.gov.in 71 Stevenson Street, Suite 2200 San Francisco, CA 94105
Consulate General of India - Seattle www.indiainseattle.gov.in 3101, Western Avenue, Suite 700 Seattle, WA 98121

Money Saving Tips in USA

Travelling to the USA does not have to be expensive. These tips can help you get more out of your budget.

  • Book flights and hotels at least three to four months in advance for the best fares
  • Use public transport in cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco
  • Take advantage of free attractions, including Smithsonian museums in Washington D.C. and several city parks
  • Eat at local diners, food trucks, and grocery stores rather than tourist-area restaurants
  • Purchase a city pass for bundled entry to multiple attractions at a discounted rate
  • Try to visit during the off-season (spring or autumn) for lower accommodation and flight prices
  • Compare travel insurance plans online to find comprehensive coverage at a competitive price

How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance for USA Online?

Buying travel insurance for the USA online takes just a few minutes. Here is how you can do it with ICICI Lombard.

  • Visit the ICICI Lombard website or download the IL TakeCare App
  • Select 'Travel Insurance' and choose 'International Travel'
  • Enter your details and go through available plans. Select the one that fits your coverage needs and budget
  • Add optional covers if required
  • Complete KYC verification and make the premium payment
  • Receive your travel insurance policy document instantly on email

Documents Required for the USA Tourist Visa

To apply for a US B1/B2 tourist visa, keep the following documents ready before your appointment.

  • A passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of travel
  • Filled DS-160 form for your non-immigrant visa application
  • A newly taken passport photo that follows the specified guidelines
  • Receipt confirming payment of the visa application (Machine Readable Visa, MRV) fee
  • Proof of sufficient funds, such as recent bank statements
  • Details of your travel plans, including flight and hotel bookings
  • Proof of ties to India such as an employment letter or property documents
  • Travel insurance documents (recommended)

Visa Procedure for USA

The US tourist visa process for Indian applicants follows a clear set of steps. Here is what to expect.

Visa Procedure For USA
1

Fill Out the DS-160 Form: Complete the online application on the official US Department of State website.

2

Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the non-refundable MRV fee via the designated payment portal.

3

Schedule a Visa Interview: Book an appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate in India (available in Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad).

4

Attend the Interview: Appear in person with all required documents.

5

Submit Biometrics: Fingerprints and a photograph are collected at the visa application centre.

6

Collect Your Passport: After approval, your passport is returned with the US visa stamp.

Processing times vary by season and location. Apply at least three to four months before your travel date to account for appointment availability and processing delays.

Conclusion

Travelling to the USA is one of those experiences you’ll enjoy planning out every detail for. The country has a great deal to offer, but it also comes with some considerations. A travel insurance policy ensures that a medical situation or a travel disruption does not derail your trip or your finances.

It’s best to really take your time to compare plans against each other, check exclusions, and familiarise yourself with the claim process. When you get this right, you have one less thing to worry about as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime.

List of Countries Where Travel Insurance Is Mandatory

While the USA does not mandate travel insurance for a visa, several other countries do require it as part of the visa application process.

  • Schengen Area countries

  • Cuba

  • Ecuador

  • Antarctica (expedition travel)

  • Russia (for certain visa categories)

  • Singapore

  • Fiji

  • Romania

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Tanzania

  • Israel

  • Nepal

  • Jordan

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for USA

Is it mandatory to have travel insurance for the USA?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for a US visa, but it is strongly advisable. A travel insurance policy covers hospitalisation, emergency evacuation, and other unexpected expenses.

How much should I pay for a travel insurance USA plan?

The premiums for travel insurance for the USA depend on factors such as the traveller's age, trip duration, sum insured, and plan type. Comparing plans online can help you find a policy that aligns with your coverage needs and budget.

Do tourists get free healthcare in the USA?

No, travellers to the USA do not get free healthcare. Treatment costs can be significant for international visitors, which is why a travel insurance policy is strongly recommended before your trip.

What is the best way to get around the USA?

The best way to travel in the USA depends on your destination. Domestic flights are practical for covering longer distances between states. Major cities like New York and Chicago have reliable metro and bus networks. Renting a car is a popular choice for road trips and cities with limited public transport.

What do I do if I lose my passport when travelling?

If you lose your passport when travelling in the USA, contact the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate immediately. Keeping a digital copy of your passport accessible on your phone or email can speed up the process considerably.

Is the water safe to drink in the USA?

Tap water in the USA is generally safe to drink and meets federal and state safety standards.

How can I stay connected during my trip to the USA?

When travelling in the USA, you can activate an international roaming plan with your Indian mobile provider before departure. Purchasing a local prepaid SIM card upon arrival is often a more cost-effective option.

Is there any kind of food that I am not allowed to bring with me to the USA?

Yes, there are certain foods you cannot bring to the USA. The country has strict customs regulations on food imports. Most fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products from abroad are prohibited. Commercially packaged and sealed food items are generally permitted, but it is advisable to declare all food items at customs to avoid penalties.

How can I handle an emergency while travelling?

If you run into an emergency when travelling in the USA, call 911 for immediate emergency assistance. For travel-related emergencies covered under your policy, contact your insurer's 24/7 assistance helpline as soon as possible.

Is travel insurance mandatory for the USA Visa?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for a US visa application. However, given the high cost of healthcare and the possibility of trip disruptions, purchasing a travel insurance policy before departure is strongly advisable.

Can I use my Indian health insurance in the USA?

Most Indian health insurance policies do not provide coverage outside India unless they include a specific worldwide cover add-on.

How do I claim travel insurance in case of an emergency in USA?

To claim your travel insurance in the USA, contact your insurer's 24/7 emergency helpline.

Do I need to carry proof of travel insurance during my USA trip?

It is advisable to carry a digital or physical copy of your travel insurance policy during your trip to the United States of America.

What is the average cost of travel insurance to USA?

The cost of travel to the USA varies based on the traveller's age, trip duration, sum insured, and plan type. Comparing plans online gives you a clearer picture of what is available before you decide.

Can I buy travel insurance after booking a flight or after starting my trip to USA?

Travel insurance can generally be purchased after booking your flight, up until your departure date. Most insurers do not allow purchase once the trip has begun. Buying early also means you are covered for trip cancellation from the moment the policy is issued.

Hi there!

Let us help you explore and buy a new policy.

Chat now
Available 24 x 7

Error message here