Information for Immigrants

Most Immigrants Qualify for Health Insurance

Under the Affordable Care Act, most immigrants are eligible for health insurance, including the following groups: 

1. Lawful permanent residents or (“green card holders”).

2. Lawful temporary residents.

3. Persons fleeing persecution, including refugees and asylees.

4. Other humanitarian immigrants, including those granted temporary protected status.

5. Non-immigrant status holders (including worker visas and student visas).

Everyone Can Apply

As of Jan. 1, 2024, adults in California ages 26 through 49 are eligible for Medi-Cal, regardless of their immigration status. All other Medi-Cal eligibility rules, including income limits, still apply. ​​Find out more on the Department of Health Care Services website.

Both lawfully present and not lawfully present individuals can apply through Covered California to see if they are eligible for a health insurance plan through Covered California or Medi-Cal. There is no “waiting period” or “five-year bar.”

To apply for health insurance, call (800) 300-1506 or apply with a certified enroller or your county. Get information on applying for Medi-Cal.