Q. Do seniors and parents who are green card holders qualify for Medicare in the U.S.?
In most cases, a new immigrant or a recent Green Card holder won't qualify for Medicare Insurance due to the program's specific and strict eligibility criteria. If you're a green card holder who doesn't reside in the U.S. and is just visiting America, you may be able to purchase a plan for temporary coverage while in the country. If you do not qualify for Medicare, you can buy temporary health insurance which provides medical coverage for non-U.S. citizens. Get quotes on New Immigrant or Green Card Insurance, go to New Immigrant Insurance
Q. Am I eligible for Medicare? Can a green card holder get Medicare?
To qualify for Medicare, a person must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident who is past their 65th birthday. Additionally, the person or their spouse must have worked in the U.S. and paid Medicare taxes for minimum 40 quarters.
If you're a recent green card holder or new immigrant to the U.S., and/or haven't worked in the U.S., you may not immediately qualify for Medicare.
In this case, you can still purchase it as long as the following apply to you:
- You're 65 years or older
- You've recently become a U.S. citizen by naturalization (the process of becoming a U.S. citizen after birth) and haven't worked enough quarters in the U.S. to have social security coverage.
- You're a lawfully admitted alien (green card holder) and have constantly lived in the United States for 5 years or longer and don't qualify for Social Security benefits.
Q. How can I learn more about Medicare eligibility and other health insurance options?
You can visit U.S. Medicare department online at Medicare.gov or call 1800.MEDICARE (1800.633.4227). Discuss your situation and specialists can help you find the options available for you.
Q. How can a green card holder get Medicare?
To begin the process of enrolling in Medicare, visit MediCare.gov or call 1800.MEDICARE (1800.633.4227).
