Did You Know: Non-U.S. Citizens & Medicare

If you’re a green card holder but don’t meet work requirements, you can buy into Medicare only if you’ve lived continuously in the United States for at least five years.

How much do noncitizens pay for Medicare?

The charges are the same for citizens and noncitizens. If you or your spouse hasn’t paid Medicare payroll taxes for 10 years, the following premiums for Medicare Part A and Part B apply in 2024:

Part A (prorated)

• $505 a month, fewer than 30 quarters.
• $278 a month, 30 to 39 quarters.
• **Free,** if you or your spouse has worked 40 quarters or more.

Part B is the same cost as a US citizen.

Both Medicare and Medicaid programs are not available for undocumented immigrants under normal circumstances. Furthermore, while private insurance is available, undocumented immigrants cannot purchase healthcare from the Health Insurance Marketplace (ACA Marketplace). Medicaid benefits may be available to illegal aliens during an emergency, but even then, various restrictions apply.

Sources:

• Are Non-U.S. Citizens Eligible for Medicare?
• Social Security and Medicare Benefits for Immigrants | CitizenPath