Top Health Insurance Provider for Visa Holders in the US [2024]
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Angie Watts
Licensed Real Estate Agent
Angie Watts is a licensed real estate agent with Florida Executive Realty. Specializing in residential properties since 2015, Angie is a real estate writer who published a book educating homeowners on how to make the most money when they sell their homes. Her goal is to educate and empower both home buyers and sellers so they can have a stress-free shopping and/or selling process. She has studi...
Licensed Real Estate Agent
UPDATED: Jan 9, 2024
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Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different insurance providers please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jan 9, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.
Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different insurance providers please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Visa holders in the United States are able to purchase health insurance on the healthcare exchange marketplace website
- If your income meets the requirements, you are eligible for premium tax credits and other cost-sharing savings
- Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for health insurance through the marketplace
- If you are a qualified non-citizen and your income meets the requirements, you may be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program after a five-year waiting period or other determining criteria
- Depending on your visa status, you may not be responsible for paying the individual mandate penalty fine if you do not have health insurance
- As a visa holder, you also have the option to purchase short term health insurance
Lawfully present immigrants are eligible to purchase a plan through the Marketplace. This term refers to those who hold a valid non-immigrant visa as well as green card holders and refugees.
Worker visas, including H1, H-2A, and H-2B visas, student visas, U visas, T visas, and several others all count as non-immigrant visas. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for health insurance.
If your income is less than 400 percent of the federal poverty level, you may be eligible for premium tax credits and other savings. When you apply for a marketplace plan, you may need to provide documentation as proof of your immigration status. If you are on a student visa, you may need to show your certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant student status with your application.
Am I eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program if I am a visa holder?
Temporary visa holders typically are not eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. However, green card holders and other qualified non-citizens are eligible if they meet their state’s income and residency requirements. This usually includes a five-year waiting period except in some circumstances for refugees and asylees.
Some states have removed the five-year waiting period for Medicaid and CHIP for pregnant women and children who are lawfully residing in that state. Medicaid will provide payment for emergency treatment for those who meet Medicaid income and residency requirements but do not have a qualifying immigration status.
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Am I required to get health insurance as a visa holder?
If you are considered a non-resident alien for tax reasons, you are not required to get health insurance under the Affordable Care Act regulations. Those who have a resident alien tax status are required to purchase a health insurance plan or pay the individual mandate penalty fine.
Students who are on F, J, Q, and M visas are considered non-resident aliens and are not required to enroll in a health insurance plan. However, many schools offer health insurance plans that will cover you for just a semester so you may want to look into those even if you are not required to have coverage.
What is the individual mandate penalty fine?
If you have a resident alien tax status, you are subject to the Affordable Care Act regulations and are required to enroll in a health insurance plan. If you do not get health coverage, you will be required to pay the individual mandate penalty fine. This fine is calculated in one of two ways and you will have to pay whichever of the two is higher.
You will either have to pay 2.5 percent of your total household income or $695 per adult and $347.50 per child under the age of 18 with a maximum set to $2,085. You will only have to pay the fine for those in your household without insurance, not every member of the household.
You will pay the fine when you file your federal tax returns for the following year. If you do not pay the fine, the IRS will withhold the amount from any future tax refunds. There are no criminal penalties or typical means of collection to ensure that you pay the fine.
What is short term health insurance?
Short term health insurance might be a good option for temporary visa holders. Short term health insurance does not meet the minimum essential coverage requirements under the Affordable Care Act so if you have a resident alien tax status, you may still be responsible for paying the individual mandate penalty fine.
Note: You can be denied from a short term health insurance plan because of a pre-existing condition or another determining factor.
Short term health insurance plans can last from 30 days to 12 months depending on the plan. They are typically low-cost plans that work well in times of emergency. You cannot purchase a short term health insurance plan on the healthcare exchange marketplace, but you can buy one from a private insurance company or broker.
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Health Insurance for Visa Holders in US
Lawfully present immigrants, including visa holders, are able to purchase a short term health insurance plan or a plan on the Healthcare Exchange. They might not be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
If you have a non-resident alien tax status, you are not required to get a health insurance plan. If you have a resident alien tax status, you are required to purchase a plan and may have to pay the individual mandate penalty fine if you do not enroll in a qualifying plan.
If you are eligible for US health insurance, enter your zip code below to compare free private health insurance quotes!
Case Studies: Top Health Insurance Provider for Visa Holders in the US
Case Study 1: XYZ Insurance Company
In this case study, we examine the experience of John, a visa holder from Canada, who sought health insurance coverage during his stay in the United States. John researched various health insurance providers and ultimately chose XYZ Insurance Company for its comprehensive coverage and affordable premiums.
During his visa period, John received medical care including doctor visits, prescription medications, and a minor surgery, all covered by XYZ Insurance Company. He easily found doctors within their extensive network and the claim process was efficient. John had a positive experience with XYZ Insurance Company, aiding him in managing healthcare expenses during his visa stay.
Case Study 2: ABC Health Insurance
Sarah, a visa holder from Germany, faced a medical emergency during her time in the United States. She had severe abdominal pain and was rushed to the nearest hospital. In this case study, we explore Sarah’s experience with ABC Health Insurance, one of the top health insurance providers for visa holders in the US.
Sarah received prompt, covered emergency medical care from ABC Health Insurance, which closely coordinated with the hospital for necessary procedures and tests. The comprehensive coverage alleviated financial stress, emphasizing the importance of efficient insurance-provider and healthcare-facility coordination during emergencies.
Case Study 3: PQR Health Assurance
Juan, a visa holder from Mexico, required ongoing treatment for a chronic condition during his stay in the US. He chose PQR Health Assurance as his health insurance provider due to its reputation for specialized care and personalized assistance. Throughout his visa period, Juan received regular check-ups, consultations with specialists, and prescription medications.
PQR Health Assurance connected Juan with renowned specialists for his condition, ensuring top-quality care. They provided translation services and dedicated support to address his language and cultural needs. Juan’s experience highlights the significance of personalized healthcare solutions for visa holders with specific medical requirements.
Case Study 4: DEF Insurance Solutions
Emily, a visa holder from the United Kingdom, found herself in need of urgent dental care while in the US. She relied on DEF Insurance Solutions to cover her dental expenses during her visa stay. Emily appreciated the dental coverage offered by the insurance provider, which included routine check-ups, fillings, and emergency treatments.
DEF Insurance Solutions connected Emily with an experienced dentist who performed a timely root canal, reducing her dental expenses through insurance coverage. This case study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive dental coverage for visa holders, promoting their overall well-being by enabling affordable access to oral healthcare.
Case Study 5: LMN Healthcare Coverage
In this case study, we delve into the experience of Maria, a visa holder from Brazil, who required maternity coverage during her stay in the United States. Maria chose LMN Healthcare Coverage for its extensive maternity benefits and support services. Throughout her pregnancy, Maria received prenatal care, ultrasounds, and regular check-ups.
LMN Healthcare Coverage covered Maria’s childbirth expenses, including hospital stays and medical procedures, and provided postpartum support, connecting her with lactation consultants and covering postnatal care. This highlights the significance of comprehensive maternity coverage for visa holders, ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best health insurance provider for visa holders in the US?
While the best health insurance provider for visa holders can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances, some popular options known for providing coverage to visa holders in the US include:
- UnitedHealthcare: UnitedHealthcare offers a range of health insurance plans suitable for visa holders, including short-term health insurance plans and comprehensive coverage options.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS): BCBS operates through various independent companies, and many of them provide health insurance plans suitable for visa holders. They offer a wide network of healthcare providers and comprehensive coverage options.
- Cigna: Cigna offers health insurance plans specifically designed for international visitors, including visa holders. Their plans often include coverage for medical emergencies, doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.
- Aetna: Aetna provides health insurance plans tailored to the needs of international visitors and visa holders. Their plans often offer coverage for a range of medical services, including preventive care, hospitalization, and emergency medical treatment.
Can visa holders purchase health insurance in the US?
Yes, visa holders in the US can purchase health insurance. Many insurance providers offer specific plans designed for international visitors, including those on various types of visas. It’s advisable to explore the options available to you and choose a health insurance plan that meets your requirements and visa conditions.
What factors should visa holders consider when selecting a health insurance provider?
When selecting a health insurance provider as a visa holder in the US, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Visa type and requirements: Different visa types may have specific requirements for health insurance coverage. Ensure that the plan you choose meets the conditions specified by your visa.
- Coverage options: Assess your healthcare needs and find a plan that provides coverage for the services you require, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and emergency care.
- Network of providers: Check if the insurance provider has a wide network of healthcare providers, including doctors, hospitals, and specialists, in your area. This ensures you have access to quality care.
- Cost and premiums: Evaluate the costs associated with the insurance plan, including premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Compare the prices and coverage of different plans to find the one that offers good value for your specific needs.
- Customer reviews and reputation: Research the reputation and customer reviews of the insurance provider to gauge their reliability, customer service, and claims process.
Can visa holders get health insurance through their employers in the US?
Yes, some employers in the US may offer health insurance coverage to their employees, including visa holders. If you are employed by a company that provides health insurance benefits, you may be eligible to enroll in their health insurance plan. It’s important to review the details of the coverage offered by your employer and ensure it meets the requirements of your visa.
Are there any specific health insurance requirements for certain visa types?
Yes, some visa types may have specific health insurance requirements. For example, the J-1 visa for exchange visitors and the F-1 visa for international students often require proof of health insurance coverage that meets certain criteria. It’s crucial to review the specific requirements of your visa and ensure your health insurance plan complies with those requirements.
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Angie Watts
Licensed Real Estate Agent
Angie Watts is a licensed real estate agent with Florida Executive Realty. Specializing in residential properties since 2015, Angie is a real estate writer who published a book educating homeowners on how to make the most money when they sell their homes. Her goal is to educate and empower both home buyers and sellers so they can have a stress-free shopping and/or selling process. She has studi...
Licensed Real Estate Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.