United States H-1 Working Holiday Health Insurance Guide
Health insurance for United States H-1 visa holders staying 6+ months. NHIS required.
When and what to do?
Entry and alien registration
Within 14 days after entryGet your alien registration card at the immigration office within 14 days of arrival.
6‑month waiting period
You become a local NHIS member 6 months after registration. Use travel insurance during that time.
Automatic NHIS enrollment
After 6 months you’re automatically registered as a local member. The Health Insurance Corp will send you a notice.
Pay your premiums
Pay premiums each month. If you miss a payment, visa renewal gets harder. You can pay via the The건강보험 app.
Pension refund when you go back
You can get back the national pension you paid when you leave. Apply at the airport before departure.
How much do you pay?
Benefits that apply to you
NHIS covers 70%
NHIS pays about 70% of hospital bills, from colds to surgery.
Free health checkup
You can get a regular health check for free. Check after you join NHIS.
Pension refund possible
You can get back the national pension you paid when you return.
The건강보험 app
You can check, pay premiums and get a certificate all in one app.
Please note
Watch the 6‑month waiting period
There’s no insurance for the first 6 months before NHIS enrollment. Make sure you have travel insurance.
Penalty for late premium on visa renewal
If you miss a premium, visa can only be extended up to 6 months.
No private indemnity insurance
H‑1 visa holders can’t get private indemnity insurance. Use travel insurance for non‑covered parts.
What to prepare
Need help?
Learn more
FAQ
Use travel insurance. You can use the ER no matter your visa.
If hired full‑time, you become a workplace subscriber and join right away, no 6‑month wait.
Local subscriber minimum ~158,630 KRW/month. No income = minimum fee.
This guide is for information only, not legal advice. Policies may change — check official sources for the latest.
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