What are my green card health insurance options? The type of health insurance you are eligible for as a green card holder depends on your planned length of stay in the U.S.A. Short term travel insurance may be a good option until you're able to apply for domestic coverage, or a long term care plan could be a better fit. G1G offers both short and long term coverage options, so please call or email our support staff to learn more about how your status affects the best kind of coverage for you.
Am I eligible for Medicare or other government insurance plans? In order to be eligible for Medicare, you must a) be a green card holder and have worked in the U.S.A. for 40 quarters, or b) be a green card holder who has established permanent residency in the U.S.A. for five years, regardless of whether or not you have worked in the U.S.A.
My parents are green card holders, can I add them to my U.S.A. insurance plan? No, the only family members who can be added to any domestic insurance plan are your spouse and dependent children. However, there are a variety of health care solutions that are designed specifically for parents with green cards, so consider a customized insurance plan to meet that need.
Am I responsible for the medical bills of my parents if I have sponsored their green cards? When you began the process of sponsoring your parents' green cards, you likely signed an affidavit that included an agreement to accept responsibility for any medical expenses. Many hospitals and health care providers may also require you to sign a letter of “guarantor” before providing any medical services for the patient, which would make you responsible for those bills.
What are my insurance options if I do not have any income? This depends on where in the U.S.A. you are currently a resident, as each state has different options for coverage under the government. Contact G1G for immediate options as you work with your state insurance department to learn more.
Now that I have my green card, do I have to purchase health insurance? As a green card holder, you are considered a lawful permanent resident, and so are required to have health insurance, just like native U.S.A. citizens are, or else incur a penalty. With a green card, you may be eligible to purchase a policy through the state or federal Marketplace during an open enrollment period.
Can I purchase health insurance if I am an undocumented immigrant? Without legal documents, you are not eligible to purchase medical coverage through the state or federal Marketplaces, although you can purchase a policy on behalf of someone who is a lawfully permanent resident. You can, however, purchase private insurance for yourself so that you can still get the care you need.