Becoming a U.S. permanent resident is a significant milestone — but securing health insurance for green card holders can be confusing. Whether you’re a new immigrant, an elderly parent, or a green card holder planning to move to the U.S., understanding your health coverage options is essential.
This guide explains the best health insurance plans available to green card holders, eligibility rules, enrollment periods, and the pros and cons of each option. We also answer frequently asked questions to help you make informed, cost-effective decisions.
Why Health Insurance Is Important for Green Card Holders
Healthcare costs in the U.S. are among the highest in the world. Without insurance, a simple hospital visit or emergency room stay can cost thousands of dollars.
As a green card holder (lawful permanent resident), you may qualify for public health insurance programs, private health plans, or short-term coverage depending on your age, income, and residency status.
Health Insurance Options for Green Card Holders
1. ACA Marketplace (Obamacare) Plans
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), green card holders are eligible to buy health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, regardless of how long they’ve lived in the U.S.
Key benefits:
- Guaranteed coverage (no denial for pre-existing conditions)
- Subsidies based on income (Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions)
- Coverage for essential health benefits (hospital, prescriptions, maternity, etc.)
Enrollment Periods:
- Open Enrollment: November 1 – January 15 each year
- Special Enrollment: If you’ve just arrived in the U.S., you may qualify for a special enrollment period.
Best for:
New immigrants, working-age green card holders, and those who meet income requirements for subsidies.
2. Medicare (For Seniors 65+)
Green card holders age 65 or older may qualify for Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors.
Eligibility:
- Must be 65 or older
- Must have lived in the U.S. legally for at least 5 consecutive years
Medicare Parts:
- Part A: Hospital insurance (free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years)
- Part B: Medical insurance (monthly premium)
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): Combines A & B with extra benefits
- Part D: Prescription drug coverage
Important:
If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you can still buy into Medicare.
Best for:
Green card holders aged 65+ who have met the 5-year residency rule.
3. Medicaid (Based on Income)
Some green card holders may qualify for Medicaid, a state and federal program that offers free or low-cost health coverage to people with limited income.
Eligibility:
- Must meet state-specific income limits
- Must have lived in the U.S. for 5 years (called the “5-year bar”)
Exceptions to the 5-year rule:
- Refugees, asylees, and certain humanitarian immigrants may qualify immediately.
Best for:
Low-income families, disabled individuals, and seniors who meet residency and income guidelines.
4. Private Health Insurance
Green card holders can purchase private health insurance directly from insurance companies or brokers outside the ACA Marketplace.
Why choose private plans?
- No waiting period for coverage
- More plan choices and networks
- Ideal for high-income individuals not eligible for ACA subsidies
Drawbacks:
- No government subsidies
- Can be more expensive than marketplace plans
Best for:
Green card holders not eligible for ACA discounts or needing immediate coverage.
5. Short-Term or Visitor Insurance (Temporary Solution)
If you’re a new green card holder still waiting to qualify for long-term options, consider short-term health insurance or visitor health insurance.
Features:
- Covers emergencies, hospitalization, and some doctor visits
- Valid for 1–12 months (renewable in many states)
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions
Best for:
New immigrants within their first few months in the U.S. or during the 5-year waiting period for Medicare/Medicaid.
Best Health Insurance Companies for Green Card Holders
Top-rated companies offering plans for green card holders include:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- UnitedHealthcare
- Kaiser Permanente
- Cigna
- Oscar Health
- IMG and VisitorsCoverage (for short-term plans)
Cost of Health Insurance for Green Card Holders
The cost depends on several factors:
- Age and health
- State of residence
- Income level (affects ACA subsidies)
- Plan type and deductible
Average ACA monthly premium (with subsidies):
$50 – $200/month
Without subsidies:
$400 – $600/month
Medicare (if not eligible for free Part A):
- Part A: $278–$506/month (2025)
- Part B: ~$174/month
Tips for Choosing the Right Plan
- Compare ACA and private plans to find the best value.
- Check if you qualify for financial assistance under the ACA.
- Consider Medicare or Medicaid if you meet the residency and income requirements.
- Use short-term insurance as a temporary solution while waiting for full eligibility.
- Work with a licensed insurance agent or broker to navigate complex options.
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FAQs: Health Insurance for Green Card Holders
1. Can green card holders get health insurance through Obamacare (ACA)?
Yes, green card holders are eligible to buy ACA health insurance plans regardless of how long they’ve been in the U.S. They may also qualify for government subsidies based on income.
2. Can new green card holders get Medicare?
Not immediately. Green card holders must live in the U.S. for at least 5 continuous years before becoming eligible for Medicare at age 65.
3. What’s the best health insurance for new green card holders?
For new immigrants, short-term health insurance or ACA plans with a special enrollment period are the best options. As residency increases, options like Medicare and Medicaid may become available.