All J-1s are required to provide their J-2 dependents with UMN health insurance, as required by the J Exchange Visitor visa regulations. The University of Minnesota requires all international scholars, student-interns, and their J-2 dependents to purchase a University insurance plan, either the Student Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) or the Employee Benefits "UPlan".
When can a J-1 Scholar employed by the University of Minnesota enroll in the employee health benefit plan?
J-1 Scholars who are employed by UMN should confirm their eligibility for Employee Benefits Health Insurance (UPlan) with their host department. New scholars must take action to enroll themselves and their J-2 dependents in insurance upon arrival, either
A. During a period of time called Open Enrollment (each year during the month of November). This is a time in which ALL employees can update or change their employee health benefits (insurance).
OR
B. During a 30-day event window. An "event" could be the hiring of a new employee. For example, the J-1 Scholar who is hired to begin their employment on June 1st will have up until June 30th (30 day window) to enroll in employee health benefits (insurance).
How does the employee pay for the health insurance that they enrolled for?
The employee’s health insurance premium is automatically deducted from their paycheck before taxes are removed.
When can a UMN employee's J-2 dependent be added to their health insurance plan?
A. Dependents who accompany the J-1 should be added to the health insurance plan at the same time as the J-1 University of Minnesota employee: At the time when the J-1 scholar is hired and enrolls within the 30 day event window.
OR
B. If arriving later, the J-2 must be added to the UPlan or SHBP within 30 days of their arrival in the United States.
