If you’re visiting the United States or have recently moved here, you might be wondering how healthcare works for non-citizens—and whether you can get Medicare. It’s a common question and a fair one. The U.S. healthcare system can be complex, and it’s not always clear what options are available, especially if you’re not a U.S. citizen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through whether foreigners can get Medicare, who qualifies for it, and what the best health insurance options are for those who don’t.
What Is Medicare and Who Is Eligible?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, and for certain younger individuals with disabilities. It’s primarily intended for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who meet specific criteria.
To qualify, individuals must:
- Be 65 years or older, or have a qualifying disability.
- Have lived in the U.S. legally for at least five continuous years.
- Have paid Medicare taxes for a minimum of 10 years, or be married to someone who has.
This means that foreigners who are only temporarily in the U.S.—such as tourists, business travelers, or family visitors—are not eligible for Medicare. Similarly, new immigrants or green card holders may not qualify until they meet residency and tax contribution requirements.
Can Green Card Holders Get Medicare?
Yes, green card holders over 65 may become eligible for Medicare—but only if they have legally lived in the U.S. for at least five years and meet the work credit or tax payment requirements. If they don’t meet these criteria, they can still purchase Medicare Part A by paying a premium, though it can be expensive.
If you’re a green card holder who is not yet eligible or needs coverage in the meantime, travel medical insurance or visitors insurance can provide the protection you need.
Can Immigrants Get Medicare?
Some immigrants can qualify for Medicare once they become permanent residents and meet the residency and work history criteria. In contrast, Medicaid—a separate program offering free or low-cost care to those with limited income—has different rules that vary by state. In most cases, new immigrants or non-citizens must wait several years before they’re eligible for Medicaid.
So, if you’re a recent arrival, these public healthcare programs likely won’t apply to you just yet.
What About Medicaid or Other Health Programs?
Are non-U.S. citizens eligible for Medicaid? In most cases, no. Medicaid is a need-based health insurance program primarily for U.S. citizens and qualifying green card holders with low income. Temporary visitors and undocumented immigrants are not eligible.
Can You Get Health Insurance in the U.S. if You Are Not a Citizen?
If they are not eligible for medicare and they can’t purchase a domestic health insurance policy since they aren’t residents, what options for healthcare do new immigrants and visitors to the US have?
Don’t worry, there is a very easy solution for health care in the US: visitors insurance.
Visitors insurance, also called travel medical insurance, is specifically designed for temporary stays in the U.S. It helps cover medical expenses in case of unexpected illness or injury during your visit. Depending on the plan, it may also cover things like emergency medical evacuation, urgent care, hospital stays, and prescription medication.
For new immigrants who have not yet met the eligibility requirements for Medicare, visitors insurance is also the go-to option until they qualify for a more permanent solution.
What Happens If You Travel Without Insurance?
This is all so complicated. What if you just traveled without insurance? Everything should be fine, right?
Healthcare in the U.S. is among the most expensive in the world. Even a quick trip to the emergency room can cost thousands of dollars. Without travel medical insurance, you’re responsible for every penny. And most U.S. hospitals require payment up front if you’re uninsured and not a U.S. citizen.
Travel insurance gives you peace of mind. If something goes wrong—whether it’s a sudden illness, an accident, or a travel delay—you have support in place. And in an unfamiliar healthcare system, that support can make all the difference.
Medicare Isn’t for Visitors, But You’re Not Out of Options
So, can you get Medicare if you’re visiting the U.S.? In short—no. Medicare is designed for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who meet specific criteria. But that doesn’t mean you’re left unprotected. Visitors insurance offers an affordable safety net that helps you avoid the financial burden of medical emergencies while traveling in the U.S.
Whether you’re coming for a few weeks or several months, the right visitors insurance plan can provide the protection you need. Browse and compare our top-rated travel medical insurance plans to find the best plan for you.
And if you’re unsure about which plan to pick, there is no need to worry. We understand that this process can be hard to digest. That is why our team of licensed travel insurance specialists is here to guide you from start to finish—no pressure, just real answers.
Because peace of mind shouldn’t be complicated.
