This article was last updated and fact checked on July 14, 2025 by Mani Karthik.
So, you’re planning to visit the US.
Maybe it’s your first trip to check out universities.
Or you’re bringing your parents to meet your new life in America.
Everyone’s telling you to get travel insurance.
But which one?
CoverAmerica Gold keeps popping up as “the best” option.
Is it really worth the hype?
Let me break it down for you.
In this article...
What Is CoverAmerica Gold?
CoverAmerica Gold is travel medical insurance.
It’s designed for people visiting the US temporarily.
Think tourists, parents visiting kids, or people checking out potential universities.
The plan is underwritten by Sirius Specialty Insurance Corporation.
They have an “A” rating for coverage and service. (Source: Path2USA)
It’s administered by IMG (International Medical Group).
They’ve been doing international insurance for 30+ years.
When traveling to USA, travel insurance is much recommended.
Two great plans are, Atlas America and Safe Travels USA.
However there are other choices like these, as well.
Who Can Buy CoverAmerica Gold?
You can buy it if you’re:
- Non-US citizen
- Non-US resident
- Visiting the US temporarily (5-365 days)
- Between 14 days and 79 years old
You CAN’T buy it if you’re from:
- Iran, Syria, Cuba, Kosovo
- Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Gambia
- US Virgin Islands
The plan covers travel to the US.
Plus trips to Canada, Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, and South America.
💡Tip: Perfect for that cross-border trip to Niagara Falls while you’re in the US.
Coverage: What’s Actually Included?
Here’s what CoverAmerica Gold covers:
| Coverage Type | Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Maximum | $50K to $1M | Choose based on your budget |
| Deductible Options | $0 to $5,000 | Lower deductible = higher premium |
| Network Coverage | 100% after deductible | Uses United Healthcare PPO |
| Out-of-Network | 80% first $5K, then 100% | Better to stay in-network |
| Pre-existing Conditions | Up to policy max (under 70) | Acute onset only |
| COVID-19 | Like any other illness | Includes testing and quarantine |
(Source: CoverAmerica Gold Official)
The Standout Features
1. Border Entry Protection
This is unique.
If you’re denied entry to the US (even with valid visa), they cover up to $550 for flight changes.
No other plan offers this.
2. Zero Copay Urgent Care
Choose $0 deductible and urgent care visits are free.
Huge money saver for minor issues.
3. Mobile Wallet Integration
Your insurance card goes straight to your iPhone or Android wallet.
No more fumbling with papers at the hospital.
4. No Cancellation Fees
Plans change. Flights get cancelled.
Most insurers charge $20-55 to cancel.
CoverAmerica Gold? Zero fees.
💡Tip: This flexibility is worth the premium alone. US travel plans change more often than you think.
What About Pre-existing Conditions?
This is where CoverAmerica Gold shines.
Most travel insurance excludes pre-existing conditions completely.
CoverAmerica Gold covers “acute onset” of pre-existing conditions.
What’s acute onset?
Sudden, unexpected flare-up of an existing condition.
Like a diabetic going into sudden shock.
Or a heart patient having an unexpected episode.
Coverage limits:
- Under 70 years: Up to full policy maximum
- 70-79 years: Up to $30,000
- Heart/stroke: $30,000-$36,000
Perfect for bringing elderly parents to the US.
The COVID-19 Coverage
CoverAmerica Gold treats COVID like any other illness.
If you catch it after your policy starts, you’re covered.
Includes:
- Testing if you have symptoms
- Treatment if positive
- Quarantine allowance if required
- Free initial screening (with 30+ day policies)
Most competitors charge extra for COVID coverage.
CoverAmerica Gold includes it automatically.
Real-World Cost Examples
Let’s look at actual pricing:
30-year-old, 30 days, $100K coverage:
- $0 deductible: ~$180-220
- $250 deductible: ~$120-150
- $500 deductible: ~$90-120
65-year-old parent, 90 days, $100K coverage:
- $0 deductible: ~$850-950
- $500 deductible: ~$450-550
Prices vary by age, duration, and coverage amount.
But generally competitive with other comprehensive plans.
💡Tip: The $0 deductible option is worth it for older travelers. Eliminates upfront costs during emergencies.
United Healthcare Network: The Big Advantage
CoverAmerica Gold uses United Healthcare’s PPO network.
This is massive in the US.
Why this matters:
- Accepted at most major hospitals
- Direct billing (no upfront payment)
- Negotiated rates (lower costs)
- Easy to find doctors anywhere
Other insurers use smaller networks.
You might end up paying upfront and waiting for reimbursement.
The Downsides: What’s Not Perfect
Age restrictions are tight.
Coverage drops significantly after 70.
Not available after 79.
Pre-existing condition coverage is limited.
Only covers “acute onset,” not regular management.
If you need dialysis or chemo, this won’t help.
No coverage for high-risk activities.
Skydiving, mountaineering, professional sports.
Stick to tourist activities.
Premium costs add up.
For long stays (6+ months), costs can reach $2,000+.
Consider if it’s worth it vs. self-insuring.
How It Compares to Competitors
| Feature | CoverAmerica Gold | Atlas America | Patriot America Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Coverage | Up to $1M | Up to $2M | Up to $1M |
| Pre-existing (Acute) | ✅ Up to max | ✅ Up to max | ✅ Limited |
| Border Protection | ✅ Unique feature | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| COVID Coverage | ✅ Included | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Cancellation Fees | ✅ $0 | ❌ $25 | ❌ $25 |
| Network | United Healthcare | First Health | First Health |
CoverAmerica Gold sits in the sweet spot.
Not the cheapest, but excellent value for features.
Is It Really “The Best”?
Depends on what you need.
CoverAmerica Gold is best for:
- First-time US visitors wanting comprehensive coverage
- Bringing elderly parents (pre-existing condition coverage)
- People worried about entry denial
- Those wanting premium network access
Skip it if:
- You’re young, healthy, and budget-conscious
- You need coverage above $1M
- You’re over 79 years old
- You’re doing high-risk activities
💡Tip: For most Indians visiting the US, CoverAmerica Gold hits the sweet spot of coverage and cost.
The Claims Process: How Easy Is It?
Filing claims is straightforward:
Step 1: Get treatment (show insurance card)
Step 2: Submit claim within 90 days
Step 3: Include medical records and receipts
Step 4: Wait for processing (usually 2-3 weeks)
Direct billing works at most network providers.
You won’t pay upfront.
Out-of-network? You’ll pay first, get reimbursed later.
Real User Experience
Positive feedback:
- Easy online purchase
- Good customer service
- Fast claim processing
- Wide network acceptance
Common complaints:
- Higher premiums than basic plans
- Age restrictions for elderly
- Limited pre-existing coverage scope
Overall satisfaction is high.
Most complaints are about cost, not coverage quality.
Special Features Worth Noting
Telehealth Access
Optional add-on for $0.12 per day.
24/7 virtual doctor consultations.
Great for minor issues or prescription refills.
Prescription Drug Coverage
Includes coverage for prescribed medications.
Uses a pharmacy discount card.
Amusement Park Coverage
Yes, you’re covered at Disney World and Universal Studios.
Most basic plans exclude these.
💡Tip: The little extras like theme park coverage and telehealth make this plan stand out from cheaper alternatives.
When NOT to Buy CoverAmerica Gold
You’re already in the US:
This is for people entering the US.
If you’re already here, you need different insurance.
You have US health insurance:
If your employer/school covers you, you might not need this.
You’re staying permanently:
This is temporary visitor insurance.
For immigration purposes, you need immigrant health insurance.
You’re on a tight budget:
Basic plans cost 30-50% less.
If you’re young and healthy, consider cheaper options.
Step-by-Step: How to Buy
Step 1: Visit an authorized agent website
Step 2: Enter your travel dates and age
Step 3: Choose coverage amount and deductible
Step 4: Add optional telehealth if wanted
Step 5: Pay online (credit card accepted)
Step 6: Download insurance card to phone
Step 7: Print backup copies
Takes about 10 minutes.
Coverage starts immediately or on your chosen date.
The Verdict: Worth It or Overhyped?
CoverAmerica Gold isn’t the cheapest.
But it’s comprehensive, reliable, and feature-rich.
Buy it if:
- You want peace of mind
- You’re bringing family members
- You can afford the premium
- You want premium network access
Skip it if:
- Budget is tight
- You’re young and healthy
- You need basic coverage only
- You’re staying short-term (under 14 days)
For most Indians planning US visits, it’s a solid choice.
Not perfect, but very good.
💡Tip: Compare at least 2-3 plans before deciding. Your specific needs matter more than generic “best” recommendations.
Alternatives to Consider
For budget travelers:
- Safe Travels USA Basic
- ChoiceAmerica
For maximum coverage:
- Atlas America (up to $2M)
- Safe Travels USA Comprehensive
For pre-existing conditions:
- INF Elite (broader pre-existing coverage)
- Safe Travels USA Comprehensive
Smart Shopping Tips
Buy early.
Prices can increase closer to travel dates.
Choose the right deductible.
$0 deductible costs more but saves money during claims.
Read the fine print.
Every plan has exclusions.
Know what’s not covered.
Keep documents handy.
Save insurance cards offline too.
Know your network.
Find United Healthcare providers before you need them.
Final Thoughts
CoverAmerica Gold is solid.
Not revolutionary, but comprehensive and reliable.
The unique features (border protection, zero fees) add value.
The United Healthcare network is excellent.
For most visitors to the US, it’s a safe bet.
Just make sure the premium fits your budget.
Good insurance is about peace of mind.
If CoverAmerica Gold gives you that, it’s worth every rupee.
