Who is a Foreign National?

A foreign national is someone who is not a citizen of the host country where they are residing, either temporarily or permanently. Obtaining U.S. based life insurance for a Foreign National has many requirements. Some key elements are listed below.

Nexus to the U.S.:

  • Real estate ownership
  • U.S. based business ownership
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Family in the U.S.

Purpose of coverage:

  • Wealth preservation
  • Funding estate taxes
  • Business succession planning
  • Income protection

Additional requirements & information (but are not limited to)

  • All activity relating to obtaining life insurance MUST TAKE PLACE IN THE U.S.—from soliciting the client, completing the exam to policy delivery.
  • Premiums must be paid via a U.S. financial institution and from the client’s account.
  • Occupational considerations. Some occupations are not eligible, examples include:
    • Politicians, public figures, government leaders, journalists.
  • Country implications. All carriers have country rating guides which determine eligibility for life insurance. These ratings prescribe where an applicant residing in a specific country may be issued coverage and on what basis.
  • Eligible age ranges vary, but are generally between 18 and 75.
  • Products, ratings & face amount requirements vary from carrier to carrier.
  • Insurable interest must be present.
  • Some identification may be required, such as a visa, passport, or permanent resident ID card.

Use our Foreign National Questionnaire to gather information about foreign national applicants and aid in carrier underwriting assessment.

Carrier Foreign National Underwriting Guides and Resources