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Can an Immigrant Get Medicare?
Medicare of health coverage has four different parts. U.S. citizens, in most instances, are enrolled in Part A and Part B of Medicare automatically at the age of 65. If they have paid Medicare tax, they receive Part A coverage for no additional fee. However, if you are not a US citizen, you are not eligible to purchase Part A or receive it for free. Instead, non-U.S. citizens may purchase Medicare Part B.
Requirements to Purchase Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B helps pay basic medical costs, such as doctor visits, preventive care, and basic medical treatments. As a non-U.S. citizen, you can purchase Medicare Part B if you meet the following criteria:
- You are 65 years of age or older,
- You can prove that you were legally admitted to the United States
- You are in lawful status when applying for Part B
- You have resided in the United States for at least five consecutive years
Buying Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D focuses on costs for prescription drugs and requires payment of monthly premiums. Prices for this plan vary according to coverage and income. To buy Part D, U.S. citizens and non-citizens alike need to have Medicare Part A or Part B.
Medicare Premiums for Non-U.S. Citizens
As a non-citizen, you have to pay monthly premiums, which are dependent upon income for Medicare Part B and Part D.
Questions? Contact Brown Immigration Law
If you need assistance with an immigration concern in Ohio, please contact a Cleveland immigration attorney at Brown Immigration Law. We would be happy to help you on the path to citizenship!
