Health Insurance During OPT

1. Am I required to have health insurance while on OPT?
While the F-1 visa regulations do not strictly mandate health insurance, it is highly recommended. Healthcare costs in the United States are exceedingly high. Once you are employed, talk with your employer to explore your health insurance options with them.  

2. Can I stay on my university's Gallagher Insurance plan?
You can enroll in or renew the Gallagher plan only during the January open enrollment period. If your OPT starts in the Spring or Winter and you miss the January window, you cannot add yourself to the plan later in the year. If you are already on the plan, check your coverage end date; it usually expires at the end of the academic term or policy year.
For more details on enrollment and coverage, visit the Gallagher website.

3. I missed the January Gallagher deadline. What are my options?
If you cannot enroll in the school-sponsored plan, you have three primary paths:

• Employer-Sponsored Insurance: This is the "Gold Standard." If your OPT employer offers a benefits package, enroll immediately. Most companies pay a significant portion of your premium.
• Private "OPT" Plans: Several providers offer plans specifically designed for international students on OPT (e.g., ISO, PSI, or International Student Insurance). These are often more affordable than standard US plans, but ensure they meet the "Minimum Essential Coverage" standards.

4. What should I do if my employer doesn't offer insurance?
If you are interning, freelancing, or working for a startup that does not provide benefits, you may enroll in health insurance for international students, such as ISO, PSI, or International Student Insurance, which offer cost-effective plans tailored to your needs.

Important Disclaimer: UCSB PaCE and UCSB do not affiliate with or endorse these private health insurance companies. Students must perform their own research, compare plans, review limitations, and choose a policy that meets their individual needs and budget while ensuring coverage for anticipated services in the United States.