Health Insurance for Green Card Holders in the United States

How Do Lawfully Present Immigrants Enroll In Health Insurance?

Lawfully present immigrants may either enroll in a health insurance plan sponsored by their employers or explore other individual and family coverage options. Like US citizens, the cost of health insurance for non-US citizens can vary depending on the level of coverage they select, so it’s important to consider potential future care needs and personal budget when choosing a health plan.

Those seeking private green card health insurance can enroll in a plan directly with a health insurer or through Covered California. Covered California was established by the ACA to help individuals and families access affordable health insurance.

Covered California helps you compare plans based on insurer, price, benefits, and networks, to make the best coverage decision for you and your family.

Generally, individuals and families must purchase coverage through Covered California during the annual Open Enrollment Period that typically runs from November 1 through January 31. However, individuals and families can enroll in a health plan through Covered California outside the Open Enrollment timeframe if they have a qualifying life event. Becoming a lawful permanent resident is one such event and qualifies the individual for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

Upon receiving a green card, individuals should enroll in health insurance, whether through their employer or Covered California, within their 60-day SEP window. 

Covered California offers access to affordable and comprehensive health insurance in the USA for foreigners who have immigrated. Ensure you are covered by prioritizing your health and obtaining the right insurance coverage for you and your family.

Medicaid Health Insurance For Non-US Citizens

Medi-Cal and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are state-run programs that provide health insurance coverage at little to no cost for individuals and families with limited income and resources. As of January 1, 2024, adults in California between the ages of 26 and 49 may qualify for Medi-Cal, regardless of their immigration status. Eligibility rules, including income and household size, will be considered during the application process. 

While lawfully present immigrants must typically wait five years after receiving “qualified immigration status” before becoming eligible for Medicaid in other states, there is no waiting period in California, and both lawfully present and non-lawfully present individuals may qualify for Medi-Cal. 

Health Insurance Subsidies For Green Card Holders

Green card holders who are not eligible for Medi-Cal may still qualify for income-based health insurance subsidies that help individuals and families with lower incomes save on healthcare costs. 

There are two types of health insurance subsidies available under the ACA. 

• Advanced Premium Tax Credits. Based on income and household size, these credits can lower monthly premium costs. 
• Cost Sharing Reductions (CSRs). These are extra savings that lower the amount you pay for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, as well as out-of-pocket maximums. If you qualify for CSRs, you must enroll in a Silver metal level health plan to receive the extra savings.

Green card holders may be eligible for both types of ACA subsidies. Learn more about how to qualify and apply for health insurance subsidies through Covered California.

Health Insurance For Green Card Holders: FAQs

Can green card holders get insurance coverage through Covered California?

Yes, green card holders are eligible to purchase health insurance in the United States. The ACA has significantly expanded access to health coverage for many individuals, including green card holders.³

Can you get health insurance while waiting for a green card?

Yes, lawfully present immigrants are eligible for coverage through Covered California before receiving their green card if they have a qualified non-citizen or humanitarian immigration status or a valid non-immigrant visa. Or they may consider enrolling in health coverage through an employer-sponsored plan.

How can green card holders find and enroll in health insurance coverage?

Green card holders can either purchase coverage directly from a health insurer or explore health insurance options available through Covered California. Employers often offer health insurance coverage to their employees as well, so green card holders may want to consider the plans available through their job.

Do green card holders qualify for Medi-Cal?

Yes, green card holders may be eligible for Medi-Cal without a waiting period. Beginning January 1, 2024, both lawfully present and non-lawfully present individuals in California may qualify for Medi-Cal without a waiting period.