Most Immigrants Qualify for Health Coverage
Under the Affordable Care Act, most immigrants qualify for health coverage, including the following groups:
-
Lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
-
Lawful temporary residents.
-
Persons fleeing persecution, including refugees and asylees.
-
Other humanitarian immigrants, including those granted temporary protected status.
-
Non-immigrant status holders (including worker visas and student visas).
Everyone Can Apply
As of Jan. 1, 2024, adults in California ages 26 through 49 will be allowed to qualify for Medi-Cal, regardless of their immigration status. All other Medi-Cal eligibility rules, including income limits, will still apply. Find out more on the Department of Health Care Services website.
A recent federal rule change will allow Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients who meet all other eligibility requirements to enroll in a health plan through Covered California starting Nov. 1, 2024. Eligible DACA recipients can receive financial help if they qualify.
Both lawfully present and not lawfully present individuals can apply through Covered California to see if they are eligible for a health plan through Covered California or Medi-Cal. There is no “waiting period” or “five-year bar.”
To apply for health insurance, call (800) 300-1506 or apply with a certified enroller or your county.Get information on applying for Medi-Cal.
