As a Green Card holder, now that the U.S. is your new permanent home, the next crucial step is to secure a reliable health insurance plan. When it comes to Medicare, the system can seem overwhelming, with unique rules and timelines for immigrants. As a Green Card holder, if you are wondering about your Medicare eligibility, enrollment periods, or benefits, you've come to the right place.
What We'll Cover in This Guide:
- Understanding Medicare eligibility requirements for green card holders
- Medicare coverage options: Parts A, B, C, and D explained
- Enrollment periods and application process for green card holders
- Healthcare options during the waiting period before Medicare eligibility
- Travel medical insurance as a temporary solution
- Common questions about healthcare coverage for green card holders
But before we dive into the details of health insurance for lawful permanent residents (LPR) or green card holders, let's understand certain key terms which can be confusing before buying health insurance for seniors.
What Should You Know About Medicare Before Getting It For Green Card Holders?
When evaluating health insurance options for Green Card holders—particularly for seniors—it’s crucial to first understand a few foundational terms. These terms affect eligibility, coverage scope, and the way insurers interpret your residency and nationality status. Below is a breakdown of the most commonly misunderstood concepts:
What’s the difference between Country of Residence and Nationality?
For insurance purposes, your country of residence may or may not be the same as your country of nationality or citizenship. Here’s how they differ:
- Country of Residence:
- The country where you maintain your primary and fixed home.
- This is typically where you live, receive mail, and return for long-term stays or medical treatment.
- Also the country you list on your insurance application as your current place of residence.
- To prove your country of residence to insurers, you may provide recent utility bills, lease agreements etc. Failing to provide such documentation may render you ineligible for coverage.
- Nationality:
- The country that issued your passport or where you hold citizenship.
- This does not automatically determine where you are considered a resident for insurance purposes.
- For example, let’s say you hold an Italian passport but live in France, then France is your country of residence, even if Italian is your nationality.
Why Does This Distinction Matter for Insurance Coverage for Seniors?
For senior Green Card holders, especially those who travel frequently, live abroad, or maintain dual residences, the definition of “home country” or “country of residence” is more than semantics. It has direct consequences for:
- Your Eligibility for Coverage
- Most international and travel insurance plans are designed to cover you outside your home country.
- If you mistakenly list the wrong country of residence, you may lose access to essential benefits, or worse, have claims denied.
- Affects Plan Type and Structure
- Some health insurance plans for seniors include limited coverage for Incidental Trips to the Home Country—short visits typically capped at 30–60 days.
- Other plans may provide Incidental Home Country Coverage for emergencies only.
Helpful Scenarios to put this into perspective
- A U.S. Green Card holder who lives full-time in Mexico and travels to Canada should purchase travel insurance as a resident of Mexico. Their nationality (U.S.) is not the relevant factor, as their country of residence is Mexico.
- A British citizen who retired in Spain and is visiting Japan for 2 months should buy travel insurance as a resident of Spain. If they listed the UK as their home country, they might not be covered properly.
- An Indian national with a U.S. Green Card who spends most of the year in India must provide documentation (like a lease or utility bills) proving India is their country of residence when applying for international insurance. Otherwise, insurers may assume the U.S. is their home country and deny certain claims.
With this understanding, let’s dive right into how Medicare works for green card holders, including qualification criteria, available coverage, and strategies like short-term medical insurance for immediate needs.
What is Medicare and How Does It Apply to Green Card Holders?
‘Medicare’ is a federal health insurance program, primarily designed for U.S. citizens or LPR aged 65 and older, and for certain younger individuals with qualifying disabilities or serious health conditions.
It provides coverage for a wide range of healthcare services, including hospital stays, doctor visits, preventive care, and prescription medications, helping to ease the financial burden of medical expenses.
Are Green Card Holders Eligible for Medicare?
Once they meet certain criteria, green card holders become eligible to get enrolled into Medicare. Let’s understand these crucial criteria in detail:
Eligibility Criteria for Green Card Holders
- Legal Residency: To qualify, you must have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least five continuous years. This implies holding a Green Card or the permanent residency status for a minimum of five years before applying for Medicare benefits.
- Age: Individuals generally become eligible for Medicare at the age of 65. However, if you have a qualifying disability or certain medical conditions (such as end-stage renal disease or ALS), you may qualify for Medicare before age 65.
- Eligibility for Hospital Insurance as part of Medicare Part A: Medicare Part A (which provides hospital insurance, explained later in the article) is primarily designed for seniors or certain younger individuals with disabilities. It is usually premium-free if you or your spouse have paid Medicare taxes through work for at least 40 quarters, equivalent to about 10 years of service. These work credits are earned by paying Social Security taxes through payroll deductions.
- If you do not have enough work credits, you can still obtain Part A by paying a monthly premium.
Lawful Permanent Residents’ (LPR) or green card holders’ eligibility criteria may vary by their state of residence and income levels.
When Can a Green Card Holder Apply for Medicare?
Once LPRs or green card holders meet all necessary eligibility criteria, they can apply for Medicare during specific enrollment periods. These periods are essential to avoid penalties for late enrollment.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and extends three months afterward. This 7-month window is your best opportunity to enroll without facing late fees and penalties.
General Enrollment Period (GEP)
If you miss your IEP, you can still apply during the General Enrollment Period (GEP), which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, keep in mind that late enrollment may result in higher premiums or gaps in coverage.
How Do I Apply for Medicare as a Green Card Holders?
Applying for Medicare as a green card holder is a straightforward process through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Before beginning your application, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Your green card (Permanent Resident Card)
- Proof of your U.S. residency history
- Social Security number
- Birth certificate or passport showing your date of birth
Step 2: Complete Application
You have three options for applying:
- Online: Visit the Social Security Administration website at ssa.gov/medicare
- By Phone: Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office (appointment recommended)
Step 3: Provide Information
During the application, you’ll need to provide personal information, including:
- Your immigration status and green card details
- Residency history in the United States
- Employment history (if applicable)
- Information about any existing health coverage
The Social Security Administration will verify your information and notify you about your Medicare enrollment status. This process typically takes several weeks, so applying early within your enrollment period is advisable.
What Medicare Benefits Are Available to Green Card Holders?
Once enrolled, green card holders can access a wide range of healthcare benefits, depending on the plan they choose. These benefits help reduce out-of-pocket medical costs.
What does Medicare Part A cover?
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers:
- Inpatient care in hospitals
- Skilled nursing facility care (not long-term care)
- Hospice care
- Some home health care services
For green card holders who have worked and paid Medicare taxes in the U.S. for at least 40 quarters (about 10 years), Part A is typically premium-free. If you haven't accumulated enough work credits, you'll need to pay a monthly premium for Part A coverage.
What does Medicare Part B cover?
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers:
- Outpatient care and doctor visits
- Preventive services (like vaccines and screenings)
- Medical supplies and durable medical equipment
- Some home health services
Part B requires paying a monthly premium that's typically deducted from your Social Security benefits. The standard Part B premium in 2026 is $202.90 per month, though this amount may be higher based on your income.
What is Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)?
Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, offers an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits through private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans typically include:
- All Part A and Part B coverage
- Often includes prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- May include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing services
Medicare Advantage plans may have different costs, rules, and restrictions compared to Original Medicare. They often operate within specific provider networks and service areas.
What does Medicare Part D cover?
Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage through private insurance companies. Features include:
- Coverage for outpatient prescription medications
- Monthly premiums that vary by plan
- Potential savings on prescription drug costs
Enrolling in Part D when you're first eligible helps avoid late enrollment penalties that could increase your premiums permanently.
What Healthcare Options Do I Have Before Becoming Eligible for Medicare?
If you're a Green Card holder, your health coverage options depend on your specific situation. While Medicare offers long-term health coverage for those who meet the eligibility criteria and possess the LPR status, there might be a period when you're waiting to become eligible, and that's where travel medical insurance can help.
Travel Medical insurance is great for:
- New Green Card holders who just arrived in the U.S. and aren't yet covered by regular healthcare programs, for a short period of time.
- Green Card holders who live mostly outside the U.S. but are visiting here for a short time.
These plans help cover unexpected medical emergencies during your stay in the U.S. But please bear in mind that these plans don't usually cover ongoing care or the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and they don't meet ACA (Affordable Care Act) requirements.
If you live, work, and pay taxes in the U.S., these travel plans likely won't be a fit for you. In that case, Medicare or other health insurance options would be better to explore.
How Can Travel Medical Insurance Help Green Card Holders?
Travel medical insurance can serve as a crucial safety net during the period when you're waiting to become eligible for Medicare or other comprehensive health insurance options.
When is Travel Medical Insurance Appropriate?
Travel medical insurance is particularly useful for:
- Waiting to obtain a green card post the age of 65, or
- A new green card holder, ahead of your 65th birthday and initial enrollment period
Travel medical insurance can be a crucial safety net. This type of short-term medical coverage can protect you from unexpected medical expenses during the waiting period.
Why Is Travel Medical or Visitors Insurance Recommended?
'Travel medical insurance' or 'visitors insurance' (often used interchangeably) is recommended for green card holders whose country of residence is different from the United States. The United States has some of the highest medical costs in the world, and without proper insurance, medical expenses can quickly accumulate, causing a strain on your retirement fund.
These are short-term plans for LPRs visiting the U.S. for a short period of time. These typically cover emergency medical expenses, including hospitalization, doctor visits, and emergency medical evacuation, providing a reliable solution.
Please note that if the green card holders plan to stay in the U.S. for a long period of time or establish residency here, then these plans provide a temporary solution until they apply & qualify for Medicare. And for such cases the best plans available with VisitorsCoverage can be used for 364 days maximum, at a stretch.
What does Travel Medical Insurance typically cover?
Here's a snapshot of the different types of coverage provided by Visitors or Travel Medical Insurance:
| Travel Medical Insurance | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medical Coverage | Covers emergency medical care, including hospitalization and doctor visits. |
| Emergency Medical Evacuation | Covers the cost of medical evacuation to your home country or a specialized medical facility. |
| Prescription Drugs | Helps cover the cost of prescription medications while waiting for Medicare Part D, but only for eligible medical expenses. |
| Repatriation of Remains | Provides coverage for the transportation of remains to home country in case of death. |
| Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions | Covers sudden flare-ups of pre-existing conditions that require emergency treatment. |
| Emergency Dental Care | Some plans cover dental emergencies, such as injuries or pain, but not routine treatments. |
| Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) | Provides compensation if you experience death or serious injury due to an accident. The compensation is a lump sum payment for incidents, such as loss of vision, a limb, or death of the insured. |
Please note that this is not a complete list of coverages; each travel medical insurance may have its own inclusions and exclusions and limits on how much the plan covers. Always read the policy document to understand the coverage details.
We understand the unique challenges that green card holders may face when it comes to healthcare. We have thus curated a selection of travel medical insurance plans that can help bridge the gap until you qualify for Medicare.
What Are the Best Medical Plans for Green Card Holders?
These plans offer flexible and affordable solutions for Green Card holders either visiting the U.S. or awaiting Medicare eligibility (before initial enrollment period):
Note: Premiums and coverage details for Medicare plans and travel medical insurance may vary depending on the plan and provider.
- To check premiums, you can generate a free green card travel insurance quote or contact our customer success team, a team of licensed insurance agents, ready to help you with personalized assistance.
- For Medicare premiums, always verify the current rates and coverage options before making a decision. For up-to-date information, consult the official Medicare website.
Key Takeaways
- Green card holders must wait five years after receiving permanent resident status before becoming eligible for Medicare
- Missing your Initial Enrollment Period can result in permanent premium penalties
- Travel medical insurance can provide temporary coverage during the Medicare waiting period
- Medicare doesn't cover healthcare services outside the United States
- Understanding the differences between Medicare parts (A, B, C, and D) is crucial for comprehensive coverage
If you're still unsure about where to start, the friendly customer success team at VisitorsCoverage is here to help you find the right coverage for your situation—no pressure, just support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare for Green Card Holders
Can you get Medicare with a Green Card?
Yes, green card holders can qualify for Medicare once they meet the eligibility requirements. These include being at least 65 years old and having been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least five continuous years.
Do Green Card holders get free medical care?
No, medical care in the United States is not free for green card holders. However, qualifying green card holders may be eligible for government programs like Medicare and Medicaid if they meet specific criteria. Even with these programs, there are typically premiums, deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance that must be paid for services.
What are the benefits of Green Card holders over 65?
Green card holders over 65 who meet eligibility requirements can access various healthcare benefits, including:
- Medicare coverage (Parts A, B, C, and D)
- Social Security retirement benefits (if they've earned enough work credits)
- State-specific senior benefit programs (eligibility varies by state)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in some cases
Can Green Card holders get Medicaid?
Yes, green card holders can be eligible for Medicaid, but most must wait five years after receiving their qualified immigration status before applying. This five-year waiting period is similar to the Medicare requirement. In this waiting period, the best thing to do is get travel insurance or get private health care.
Do Green Card holders get a Social Security pension?
Yes, green card holders who have worked in the United States and paid Social Security taxes for at least 40 quarters (approximately 10 years) can qualify for Social Security retirement benefits. The benefit amount is based on your earnings history and the age at which you begin collecting benefits.
Can Green Card holders get health insurance before turning 65?
Yes, if Green Card holders are not yet eligible for Medicare, they can obtain health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace or if they are traveling on their green card to the USA from abroad and their home country is different from the U.S., then they may apply for travel medical insurance for short-term coverage, until they qualify for Medicare.
What should I do if I miss my Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare?
If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31 each year), with coverage beginning July 1. However, you may face late enrollment penalties that can permanently increase your premiums. In certain situations, you might qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you had qualifying health coverage (like employer-based insurance) when you first became eligible.
Is Medicare enrollment automatic for green card holders?
No, Medicare enrollment is not automatic for most green card holders. You must actively apply during your Initial Enrollment Period or General Enrollment Period. The only exception is if you're already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, in which case you'll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
Can I keep my Medicare coverage if I travel outside the U.S. for extended periods?
Yes, you can keep your Medicare coverage while traveling outside the U.S., but you won't be able to use it outside the U.S. and there are many important considerations to take into account:
- Your Medicare coverage will remain active, but Medicare typically won't pay for healthcare services you receive abroad
- You must continue paying Medicare premiums while away to avoid losing coverage
- If you plan to be outside the U.S. for an extended period (more than 6 months), it may affect your status as a U.S. resident for Medicare eligibility
- Consider purchasing travel medical insurance for international trips
