Paul Sanchez
Undocumented immigrants in the US face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, with nearly half reporting being uninsured as of 2023. While undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Marketplace health coverage, there are other avenues through which they can obtain medical insurance. These include state-specific programs, such as those in Connecticut, Vermont, Illinois, and Maryland, as well as options for children and pregnant individuals. Understanding these options is crucial for helping undocumented immigrants secure the healthcare coverage they need.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | Undocumented immigrants |
| Application process | By phone, with a certified enroller, or in the county |
| Required documentation | Policy numbers for other health insurance |
| Waiting period | None |
| Eligibility criteria | Income limits |
| Coverage | Emergency medical services, primary care visits, prescription drugs, dental and vision services, etc. |
| Personal information sharing | Application information will not be shared with agencies like ICE |
| Impact on immigration status | Enrolling in health coverage will not affect the applicant's immigration status or their application for a green card or citizenship |
| State-specific programs | California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, and Vermont have programs that offer health coverage to undocumented immigrants |
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What You'll Learn
State-specific insurance options
In California, undocumented immigrants can apply for health insurance through Covered California or Medi-Cal. There is no waiting period, and individuals can call (800) 300-1506 or apply with a certified enroller or their county to determine their eligibility. Starting in 2024, adults aged 26 to 49 in California will be allowed to qualify for Medi-Cal, regardless of their immigration status, as long as they meet other eligibility requirements, such as income limits.
In New York, undocumented immigrants can obtain free or very low-cost insurance through Medicaid if they are pregnant or require emergency services, provided they meet other eligibility requirements. Additionally, the Essential Plan offers free or low-cost insurance for adults with low incomes who do not qualify for Medicaid. Immigrants with valid visas or deferred action status can qualify for the Essential Plan immediately upon arriving in New York. DACAmented New Yorkers with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status are eligible for Medicaid. Most immigrants can also purchase private plans on the NY State of Health Marketplace, where financial assistance is available.
Undocumented immigrants in Texas can access healthcare services through clinics and health centers that offer sliding-scale fees or discounted rates for uninsured patients. While Texas has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, qualifying non-citizen immigrants with specific immigration statuses, such as refugees or asylees, may be eligible for Medicaid after meeting state residency and income requirements.
In other states, such as Massachusetts, undocumented immigrants can access healthcare services through community health centers and free clinics that offer discounted rates or sliding-scale fees. These health centers often provide primary care, preventive services, and treatment for acute illnesses. Additionally, some states may have specific programs or policies in place to assist undocumented immigrants in accessing healthcare services.
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Emergency medical services
Undocumented immigrants can access emergency medical services in several ways. Firstly, they can turn to hospitals that provide emergency care regardless of immigration status, often funded by state or local governments. For example, as of April 2025, 14 states and Washington, D.C., provide comprehensive state-funded coverage to children regardless of their immigration status. Additionally, undocumented immigrants in California can qualify for Medi-Cal, regardless of their immigration status, as long as they meet other eligibility requirements such as income limits.
In certain states, undocumented immigrants can also access Medicaid for emergency services if they meet specific requirements. For instance, in New York, undocumented immigrants who are pregnant can receive Medicaid coverage as long as they fulfill other eligibility criteria. Furthermore, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients in New York with the appropriate status can also qualify for Medicaid.
Another option for undocumented immigrants seeking emergency medical services is to purchase private insurance directly from insurance companies. While this may not be an affordable option for everyone, it can provide access to emergency care. Additionally, some states, such as Illinois, offer programs like the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults (HBIA) that provide time-limited coverage for emergency services to undocumented immigrants who are disqualified from other Medicaid categories solely due to their immigration status.
It is important to note that the availability and accessibility of emergency medical services for undocumented immigrants can vary significantly by state and local policies. Undocumented immigrants often face challenges in understanding their eligibility and navigating the complex healthcare system. Therefore, seeking information from reliable sources, such as community service agencies serving immigrants, immigrant rights organizations, and state or local health departments, is crucial for making informed decisions about emergency medical care.
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Private insurance
As an undocumented immigrant, you may face significant barriers to accessing health coverage and care. You are not eligible for Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and cannot purchase coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplaces. However, you do have a few options for obtaining private insurance.
Firstly, you can explore the option of purchasing private insurance directly from an insurance company. Undocumented immigrants in certain states, such as Illinois, have the opportunity to buy private insurance. The state of Illinois, for instance, offers medical coverage to adults aged 42 to 64 regardless of their immigration status.
Secondly, you can consider enrolling in a student health plan. This option is available to undocumented immigrants and can provide you with health coverage during your studies.
Thirdly, you have the choice to enrol in individual (non-group) plans purchased off-exchange. On-exchange plans typically require proof of legal immigration status, but off-exchange plans may offer more flexibility.
Additionally, some states are taking initiatives to expand coverage for undocumented immigrants. For instance, starting in 2025, Colorado will provide Medicaid coverage to undocumented pregnant people and children based on income. Vermont has also introduced the Immigrant Health Insurance Plan, which provides coverage to children under 19 and pregnant women who are not eligible for Medicaid due to their immigration status.
It is important to note that the availability of private insurance options for undocumented immigrants may vary depending on your state. Each state has different eligibility requirements and scope of benefits offered through their coverage programs.
Furthermore, while undocumented immigrants face challenges in accessing health coverage, federal and state laws protect the privacy of individuals who apply for health insurance. Your information will not be used for immigration enforcement and will only be utilised to determine eligibility for coverage.
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Eligibility criteria
Illinois
The State of Illinois offers medical coverage to adults aged 42 to 64 regardless of their immigration status. Undocumented non-citizens in Illinois can access time-limited coverage for emergency services through the Emergency Medical for Noncitizens program. This program provides coverage for individuals who are not eligible for other Medicaid categories solely due to their immigration status.
Maryland
In 2024, Maryland enacted legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to use the state-run exchange for health insurance plans from 2026 to 2028. This legislation enables undocumented immigrants to access health insurance plans through the Maryland Health Connection. However, state-funded subsidies for undocumented immigrants are subject to the appropriation of funding by the state legislature.
California
California considered legislation in 2024 to allow undocumented immigrants, who are not eligible for Medicaid, to enrol in health insurance coverage similar to that of other Californians while adhering to federal rules.
Connecticut
Connecticut's HUSKY (Medicaid/CHIP) program covers undocumented children up to age 12 based on income eligibility. Starting in July 2024, this coverage will be extended to children up to age 15.
Vermont
Vermont's Immigrant Health Insurance Plan, established in 2022, provides health coverage to children under 19 and pregnant women who are ineligible for Medicaid due to their immigration status.
Colorado
Starting in 2025, Colorado will provide Medicaid coverage to undocumented pregnant people and children based on income eligibility.
Hawaii
Hawaii is considering legislation to allow income-eligible children and pregnant women to qualify for Medicaid/CHIP regardless of their immigration status.
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Application process
The application process for medical insurance for undocumented immigrants can vary depending on the state and specific program. Here is a general overview of the application process:
- Understanding Eligibility: Undocumented immigrants are typically not eligible for federal programs such as Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace coverage. However, some states have expanded coverage to include undocumented immigrants. For example, states like California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, and Vermont have implemented programs or policies that provide health coverage to undocumented immigrants. It is important to check the specific eligibility requirements for each state and program.
- Gathering Documentation: While the specific documentation required may vary, some common documents that may be needed during the application process include proof of identity, income verification, and policy numbers for any existing health insurance coverage. It is important to note that a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is typically not required for these applications.
- Finding Assistance: The application process can be complex, and there are resources available to help. Many states have Navigator programs that provide enrollment assistance to individuals, especially immigrant families. Additionally, community service agencies serving immigrants can offer support and help connect individuals with the nearest service providers.
- Completing the Application: Applications for health coverage can typically be completed online, over the phone, or with the help of a certified enroller or assister. The application process may involve providing personal information, such as name, date of birth, address, and immigration status for family members applying for coverage. It is important to understand that by law, the information provided in the application cannot be shared with other agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and it will not affect the applicant's immigration status or their application for a green card.
- Exploring Options: In addition to state-specific programs, undocumented immigrants may have other options for obtaining health coverage. Some states, like California, allow individuals regardless of their immigration status to apply for health plans through their state-run exchanges. Undocumented immigrants may also be able to purchase private insurance directly, although this may be more expensive.
- Understanding Coverage and Benefits: Once enrolled in a health plan, it is important to understand the coverage and benefits provided. This includes knowing which services are covered, any out-of-pocket expenses, and the network of providers available. Understanding these details can help ensure effective utilization of the health insurance plan.
It is important to stay updated with the latest developments and changes in policies regarding health coverage for undocumented immigrants, as the landscape is constantly evolving.
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Frequently asked questions
Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Marketplace health coverage, but they may be able to purchase private insurance directly. Some states, like Illinois and California, have also introduced their own health insurance programs for undocumented immigrants.
In California, adults between the ages of 26 and 49 can qualify for Medi-Cal regardless of their immigration status. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients can also enroll in a health plan through Covered California. In Illinois, the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Seniors program offers free primary care visits, prescription drugs, dental and vision services, and more to undocumented immigrants.
Yes, undocumented immigrants can apply for health coverage on behalf of documented family members. Undocumented immigrants can also apply for health plans for their family members without having to disclose the immigration status of those not requesting coverage.
Noncitizen immigrants face eligibility restrictions for federally-funded coverage options, such as Medicaid, CHIP, and Medicare. They also face enrollment barriers, including fear, confusion about eligibility rules, and language access challenges.
No, applying for health coverage will not affect an undocumented immigrant's current immigration status or their chances of obtaining a green card or citizenship in the future. By law, the personal information provided in the application will not be shared with another agency.
