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Travel health insurance for Greencard Holders in the USA

Find the best Green Card Holder medical insurance while in USA

Green Card Holders health insurance

Insurance for Green Card holders

Is medical insurance mandatory for Green Card holders?

There is no specific requirement for Green Card holders to have medical insurance under U.S. immigration law. However, it is highly recommended to have health insurance coverage to protect against unexpected medical expenses given the very expensive cost of US healthcare.

Which are the best Green Card Holder medical insurance?

Can a Green Card holders buy INF insurance?

Yes, they can buy INF travel insurance as long as they have a residence outside the US.

Greencard holders medical insurance

Medical insurance for Green Card Holders

The health insurance options for Green Card holders that we offer on American Visitor Insurance work as short term health insurance which US permanent residents can use till they are eligible for domestic US insurance plans. America Greencard holders have full authorization to live and work permanently in the United States. They enjoy all benefits given to immigrants in the USA. This article gives insight to some of the benefits Green Card holders enjoy as well as inform residents of different ways to qualify for the Green Card.

Insurance for Green Card holders in USA

Several US green card travel benefits and few restrictions for Green Card holders in America. Some of them are:

  • Green Card holders in the USA can enter or leave America according to their wish without denial by the immigration officials at the port of entry. You have to keep track of entry and exit dates and should carry Green Card with you while traveling.
  • The Green Card has a lifetime validity, but a given Green Card will need renewal usually every 10 years.
  • Green Card Holders do not require employment sponsorship in the US. Some jobs in the US require security clearance and only US citizens or Green Card holders can get this clearance.
  • As a Green Card holder, you are allowed to start your own business, company or corporation.
  • You can apply for financial aid for education which may be sponsored by the government.
  • Green Card holders who have worked for a minimum of 10 years (40 quarters) in the USA have guaranteed social security benefits.
  • Except for the right of voting, Green Card holders enjoy all legal rights as US citizens.
  • Green Card holders can buy life or health insurance in America.
  • You can buy or sell property or any items as American citizens.

Different ways to qualify for American Green Card

To qualify for Green Card in the USA there are different eligibility criteria. Some of the important categories of immigration process that can grant Green Card for foreigners are listed here.

  • Immigrant Category Eligibility: To qualify for Green Card in the USA there are different eligibility criteria. The important categories of immigration process that can grant Green Card for foreigners are listed here. On a preference system, a foreigner who want to become a permanent resident through his/her qualified family member with a job or employment or a special category will be classified. However, the immediate relatives of US citizens are given highest immigration priority for permanent residence and there are a few exceptions.
  • Family Based Immigration: The immediate relatives of American citizens who need not have to wait for visa to become available. Relatives who can get permanent residence quickly are
    • Parent of a US citizen.
    • Spouse of a US citizen.
    • Unmarried children under the age of 21 of a U.S. citizen.
      Please note: Only US citizens of at least 21 years of age can apply for their parents. Other family members have to wait for a visa to become available to apply for permanent residency.
    • First Preference: Unmarried, adult (21 years or older) sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
    • Second Preference A: Spouses of permanent residents and the unmarried children (under 21 years) of permanent residents.
    • Second Preference B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years or older) of permanent residents.
    • Third Preference: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, their spouses and their minor children.
    • Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens, their spouses and their minor children.
  • Job or Employment Based: In this category, the immigration based on a job may help to apply for permanent residence when immigration number becomes available. Following is the order of preferences.
    • First Preference: Priority Workers, including aliens with extraordinary abilities, outstanding professors and researchers, and certain multinational executives and managers.
    • Second Preference: Members of professions holding an advanced degree or persons of exceptional ability (including individuals seeking a National Interest Waiver).
    • Third Preference: Skilled Workers, professionals and other qualified workers.
    • Fourth Preference: Certain special immigrants including those in religious vocations.
    • Fifth Preference: Employment creation immigrants (investors or entrepreneurs).
  • Refugee or Asylum Based Status: Refugees in the USA or qualifying spouse or a child of a refugee have to apply for Green Card 1 year after the entry. In case of an asylum and a qualifying spouse or a child of asylee you may apply after 1 year of the granting of asylum status. As per the US law, the refugees have to apply for Green Card 1 year after being admitted to the USA in refugee status.
  • Other Ways to Qualify: Some of the other ways to get Green Card will be if you are a Amerasian Child of a U.S. Citizen, American Indian born in Canada, Armed Forces Member, Cuban Native or Citizen, Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, Haitian Refugee, Help HAITI Act of 2010, and the Indochinese Parole Adjustment Act.

Health insurance for Green card holders cost

Medical insurance cost for Green card holders varies based on several factors such as the age, medical maximum coverage, deductible for the plan, and the coverage for pre-existing conditions. There are cheap Green Card holders health insurance plans starting at $38 per month.

Cost of health insurance for parents over 65 years on Green Card

Travel insurance USA Coverage Deductible Provider Network Cost #
Safe Travels Advantage Trawick International $25,000 $0 First HealthCare $38
Safe Travels Elite Trawick International $25,000 $0 First HealthCare $50
INF Standard X INF $50,000 $250 United HealthCare $76
Patriot America Lite IMG $50,000 $250 United HealthCare $157
Safe Travels USA Trawick International $50,000 $250 First HealthCare $160
Patriot America Plus IMG $50,000 $250 United HealthCare $173
Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Trawick International $50,000 $250 First HealthCare $224
Diplomat America Global Underwriters $50,000 $250 No PPO $262
INF Safe Traveler USA X INF $150,000 $500 United HealthCare $341
Patriot Platinum IMG $1M $250 United HealthCare $379

# Approximate cost of Green Card holders health insurance is for a 65-year-old parent or seniors for a duration of 1 month.

Medicare eligibility for Green Card Holders

Green Card Holders (lawful permanent residents) can qualify for Medicare if they meet certain requirements related to age, residency, and work history.
To be eligible for Medicare, Green Card Holders must meet the following conditions:

  • Age: Be 65 years or older, or meet specific disability criteria if under 65 (such as receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, or having end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)).
  • Residency: Have lived in the U.S. as a legal permanent resident for at least 5 consecutive years.
  • Work History: Have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters) through employment in the U.S., or be married to someone who has.

If you haven't paid Medicare taxes for 10 years and don't qualify for premium-free Part A, you may need to buy Part A, but you will still be required to pay premiums for both Part A and Part B. If you've worked less than 30 quarters, you will pay approximately $505 per month for Part A (2024 rate). If you've worked 30-39 quarters, the premium is about $278 per month (2024 rate). For those who need to pay for both Part A and Part B, the combined premiums can be costly, so some Green Card Holders may opt for other private health insurance options until they qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A. Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, and preventive services. Unlike Part A, there is no work history requirement for Part B. Everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B, which in 2024 is approximately $174.70 (higher if your income exceeds certain limits).

Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts for 7 months which starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month, then includes the month of your 65th birthday and finally ends 3 months after your birthday month. If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you can sign up during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. You may face a late enrollment penalty for Part B (and sometimes Part A) if you delay enrollment without having other creditable coverage (such as employer insurance). You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you delayed enrolling in Medicare due to having other creditable coverage (e.g., through an employer or union).

Health insurance options for Green Card holders

Domestic Insurance options are not immediately available for new immigrants and Green Card parents in the USA. Here are some travel insurance for parents coming on Green Card that work well as new US immigrants must wait 5 years before they can qualify for Medicare. The plans work as bridge plans until eligibility for local plans is satisfied.

Patriot America Lite / Patriot Platinum:

If a person has a Green Card, but maintains a residence outside the US, then they can purchase the Patriot America Lite or Patriot Platinum plans. On the application, a person should list their foreign address as their "home" address. They can only get coverage for time while outside this "home" address (up to 12 months). This is a very economical comprehensive plan. The difference between the America and Platinum plans is the level of coverage available. The Patriot Platinum offers the highest maximum and the best coverage of all plans offered by IMG ($1 million or $100 for 70-79 years old). The Patriot America Lite has lower maximums and lower limits in other areas (emergency medical evacuation, etc).

The Patriot America Plus by IMG is an excellent comprehensive plan that will cover new sickness and accident. This plan is suitable for Green Card holders as long as they reside outside the US.

Patriot America Lite:
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INF insurance provides coverage for many Green Card holders, especially those who are above age 65. INF insurance plans also offer ancillary benefits such as dental and telemedicine which are usually separate policies under domestic US health insurance.
Following are the list of US Green Card holders insurance plans:

What is the best insurance for permanent residents and Green Card holders in USA?

The best health insurance while waiting for Green Card are listed here:

  1. The INF Elite plans are designed for travelers who need coverage for full pre-existing medical conditions up to age 99 years. INF Elite plans are comprehensive plans available for people traveling to the US and provide flexible coverage. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plans.
  2. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 69 years the limit is up to the medical maximum purchased per period of coverage and for any coverage related to cardiac disease, coverage is limited to $25,000.
  3. Patriot America plus is Comprehensive travel insurance covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit aged up to 70 years. This plan is available for Non US citizens traveling to the USA and US citizens and Non US citizens living abroad can buy this plan for visiting the US for short while. Plan is suitable for Green Card holders as long as they reside outside the US.
  4. Safe Travels USA is a cheap travel medical insurance plan that covers sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition for Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA up to 89 years.
  5. Diplomat America is available for Non US citizens and Non-US residents while visiting the United States.Available for Green Card holders.Covers pre-existing condition after 24 months of waiting period.

Why American visitor insurance?

American Visitor Insurance works with reputed US travel insurance providers to give international travelers a wide range of travel insurance options. Our company has two decades experience in understanding the diverse requirements of international travelers and in offering appropriate travel insurance options to them.

Our typical customers range from international travelers visiting family in the US, international students, J visa holders, H1b Visa holders, US travelers going overseas, travelers to Schengen countries who need travel insurance to satisfy visa requirements, trip cancellation customers to insurance their trip expenses, travelers looking for Covid19 travel insurance with quarantine coverage as mandated by certain countries, corporate professionals and business travelers who travel internationally regularly as well as other diverse traveling groups with unique needs.

Our licensed dedicated customer support team provide service at all times helping customers find the most appropriate travel insurance for their needs as well as guide them when using the insurance in the event of a medical or travel emergency. We also provide answers to all international travel insurance questions, reviews of different products, testimonials for customers as well as provide an user friendly travel insurance comparison tool where travelers can compare different products based on price as well as the coverage benefits. All of these tools help travelers make an informed decision while buying travel insurance.

Who is eligible to get Green Card in the US?

You will be eligible to seek Green Card in the US if you fall under one of these categories.

  • Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens
  • Other Family Members
  • Preferred Employees and Workers
  • Ethnic Diversity
  • Special Immigrants
  • Refugee and Political Asylum
  • Long-Term Residents

Green Card medical insurance for seniors

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Medical insurance for Green Card holders over 65 years

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Medical insurance for Green Card holders over 70 years

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Medical insurance for Green Card holders over 80 years

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Cost of health insurance for parents on Green Card

Green Card holders to USA - FAQ's

01. Is there travel medical insurance for seniors over 70 from USA?

Yes, there are many travel insurance options for seniors over 70 from the USA. Many US travel insurance providers offer policies specifically designed for older travelers, and some policies may have no age limit for coverage. However, it is important to note that the cost of travel medical insurance for seniors is higher than for younger travelers due to increased health risks and the likelihood of pre-existing conditions. Additionally, coverage and benefits may vary depending on the policy, and it is important to carefully review policy terms and conditions to ensure that you get the coverage you need.

Some US insurance providers that offer travel medical insurance for seniors over 70 from the USA include Trawick International, Seven Corners, IMG and WorldTrips. It's recommended to research and compare different policies on American Visitor Insurance based on costs, benefits and coverage for pre-existing conditions to find the best traveller insurance and value for your needs.

02. What’s the most important insurance coverage for senior travelers?

The most important insurance coverage for senior travelers is extent of medical coverage. Seniors are more likely to have pre-existing medical conditions and may be at higher risk for medical emergencies while traveling, making it essential to have adequate medical coverage in case of illness or injury. Travel medical coverage can include coverage for hospitalization, emergency medical treatment, and medical evacuation if needed.

In addition to travel medical coverage, senior travelers may also want to consider trip cancellation and interruption coverage, which can help protect against financial loss if they need to cancel or cut short their trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or weather-related events. There is the option available for US travelers to buy travel insurance with cancel for any reason, which gives full flexibility to cancel a trip.

Among other important insurance coverage for senior travelers is the coverage for lost or stolen luggage, travel delays or missed connections, and accidental death or dismemberment. Older travelers should compare different US travel insurance policies to find the best coverage and value for their individual needs on American Visitor Insurance.

03. Can I find cheap travel insurance for seniors over 70?

Yes, it is possible to find cheap travel insurance for seniors over 70. Many insurance providers offer specialized travel insurance plans that cater to the needs of older adults. By comparing quotes from different insurers and considering factors such as coverage options, deductibles, and pre-existing condition coverage, seniors can find affordable travel insurance that suits their specific requirements. It is advisable to shop around and explore various options to find the most cost-effective travel insurance policy for seniors over 70.

04. How can I compare different travel medical insurance for seniors over 70?

Older travelers can easily compare different travel insurance over 70 plans on American Visitor Insurance which allows you to compare features, benefits, and prices of different policies. Travelers can review travel insurance plans based on your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you are looking for visitor insurance which focuses on the health of the traveler, you can compare insurance based on the specific coverage for medical ailments, coverage for pre-existing conditions, the co-insurance and deductible for the insurance plan Some of the factors that you should consider while comparing visitor insurance health insurance for the traveler are:

  • The maximum medical coverage available for the age of the traveler
  • The cost of insurance and deductible and co-insurance expenses
  • The Preferred provider organisation (PPO) network of the insurance provider and user reviews
  • The coverage for pre-existing conditions and any exclusions and limitations of the policy
  • The customer assistance and emergency helpline of the insurer

05. How important is the visitors insurance for parents over 70?

Visitor health insurance which insures mainly the health of the traveler against accident or sickness when he/she is traveling overseas is very important since healthcare is very expensive, especially in the USA. Visitor health insurance is important even if you have health insurance in your home country which you believe will work in the US. The main reason for this is that US insurance providers negotiate with the healthcare providers in the US to get a better pricing for medical services, something that is not available to international insurance providers. This makes US healthcare very expensive even with travel medical insurance coverage which do not have negotiated rates with US healthcare providers.

Visitor insurance which focuses on insuring the travel expenses along with the health of the traveler is very important to protect travelers from unforeseen risks and emergencies that may occur during their trip. Travel insurance can provide coverage for various situations such as:

  • Medical expenses due to illness or injury
  • Trip cancellation or interruption due to unforeseen reasons
  • Loss or delay of baggage or personal belongings
  • Passport or travel document theft or loss
  • Emergency evacuation or repatriation
  • Legal liability or personal accident
  • Travel assistance and support

Having the best visitor insurance is really important given its relative cost to that of the trip and the cost of healthcare overseas. Visitor insurance can help you save money, time, and hassle in case something goes wrong during your trip. It can also give you peace of mind and confidence to enjoy your travel experience. Therefore, travel insurance is strongly recommended for travelers to travel safely and securely.

It is easy to find the best visitor insurance online by comparing several insurance options on American Visitor Insurance based on cost as well as coverage benefits offered.

06. How much is travel insurance for 70 year old cost?

The cost of travel health insurance which focuses on the health of the traveler depends on factors such as:

  • The age and health of the traveler (older the traveler, higher the cost)
  • The destination and duration of your trip (cost in US is most expensive)
  • The amount of medical maximum coverage chosen (higher the coverage, higher the cost)
  • The deductible and co-insurance of the insurance
  • Any add-on benefits (pre-existing conditions coverage etc.. cost more)
07. Do Green Card holders need health insurance in the USA?

Green Card holders have different eligibility criteria and knowing this will aid to find the right plan that best fits the needs of the individual.

Green Card holders who permanently live in the US:
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, requires most individuals in the United States, including lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), to have health insurance of some form. If you belong to this category, if you have not enrolled in the domestic health care plan, then consider to buy a short-term health insurance plan until the next enrolment period. This could be a Green card holder short term medical insurance plan that satisfies the requirements of an immigrant or Green Card holder.

Green Card holders who travel between their home country and the US:
Green Card holders who are shuttling between their home country and the US and are not living permanently in the US and have a residence outside the US can buy a visitors health insurance plan that satisfies the requirements of an immigrant or Green Card holder traveling to home country and the US. Affordable Care Act may not apply if you spend more than 330 days outside of the US. Most of the short-term visitor insurance plans for Green Card holders are for this category where they maintain their residency in another country.

Green Card holders who are new immigrants:
If you are a new immigrant , then you are eligible to purchase any short term health insurance plan also known as visitor insurance plan that satisfies the requirements of Green Card holders while you wait to enroll in a domestic health care. If you decide to permanently live in the US, then these plans will not cover you in the US. These plans cover you only if you can show that you live outside of the US for at least 6 months in a year.

08. What are the benefits of Green Card holders in the USA?

As a Green Card holder, also known as a lawful permanent resident, you are granted several benefits in the United States. These benefits include:

  • Permanent residency: A Green Card signifies your status as a lawful permanent resident of the United States. It allows you to live and work in the country indefinitely, as long as you maintain your residency status.
  • Employment opportunities: Green Card holders have the right to work in the United States without the need for additional work authorization. You can pursue employment in most occupations and industries, and you are not restricted to a specific employer or job.
  • Social security benefits: Green Card holders may be eligible for certain social security benefits, such as retirement benefits, disability benefits, and survivor benefits. These benefits are available to individuals who have paid into the social security system through their employment.
  • Education benefits: As a Green Card holder, you have access to educational opportunities in the United States. You can enroll in public schools and institutions of higher education, and you may be eligible for in-state tuition rates at state universities and colleges.
  • Protection under U.S. law: Green Card holders are entitled to the legal protection and rights provided by U.S. laws. This includes protection against unlawful discrimination, access to the courts, and other legal rights and responsibilities.
  • Ability to sponsor family members: Green Card holders have the opportunity to sponsor certain family members for immigration benefits. This may include spouses, unmarried children, and, in some cases, parents and siblings.
  • Pathway to U.S. citizenship: Green Card holders may have the option to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting certain eligibility requirements. Becoming a U.S. citizen offers additional benefits, such as the right to vote and the ability to obtain a U.S. passport.
09. Are all Green Card holder's permanent residents?

Green Card holders can be people who have been living in the US for longtime or they can be new immigrants who are residing in the US recently. The USCIS government authority allows the Green Card holders to live in the US for 6 months and stay outside of the US for 6 months with a re-entry permit, a person with Green Card can stay outside the US for up to 2 years.

10. Can we get health insurance while waiting for Green Card in the US?

Yes, there are many short term health insurance plans available for Green Card applicants. Not having any kind of health insurance is not advisable considering the expensive healthcare in the US. Some plans consider the home country is the one where the individual is a permanent resident and some plans consider it is the one where the individual is currently residing. Here are some plans that are suitable for Green Card applicants waiting for the Green card:

11. What are the types of health insurance plans available for Green Card holders in the US?

Green Card holders can get health insurance in 2 types:

Group health insurance plans are usually purchased in an organization by the employer and the head of that organization covers part or most of the expenses.These are cheaper and are purchased for a large number of people.

These plans can be extended to the family to include children, spouse and parents of the individual as well. If the parents are over 65, then they will have to purchase an individual insurance plan.

Individual insurance plans are purchased from a health insurance company and the cost of the insurance is covered by the individual themselves.Your employer is not involved in this. If the plan offered by your employer does not suit your needs , then you can purchase your own individual plan and opt out of the insurance.

12. What are the health insurance options for Green Card holders over 65?

Green Card holders over 65 have some key considerations:

  • Medicare: Green Card holders who are 65 or older may be eligible for Medicare, a federal health insurance program. Medicare consists of several parts, including Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Eligible individuals can enroll in Medicare to help cover healthcare costs as well as supplement this coverage with other plans.
  • Medicaid: Green Card holders over 65 with limited income and resources may be eligible for Medicaid, a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. Eligibility requirements and benefits vary by state, so it's important to check the specific rules in your state of residence.

If one has not lived in the US or worked prior to receiving their Green Card, they must purchase their own health insurance plan catering to seniors. This can be difficult as many options do not cover pre-existing conditions for people over 65 and the cost also can be high, however, at American Visitor Insurance, we do offer option to purchase an US short term health insurance plans for older Green Card holders till they become eligible for domestic health insurance.

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Steps to buy insurance for Green Card holders

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Find Green Card holders health insurance plans
Complete the Green Card holder health insurance quote form with relevant details.

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Compare Green Card holders medical insurance cost
Compare price and benefits of the Green Card holder insurance options to find what fits your needs best.

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Buy the best us Green Card health insurance for your needs
Buy the plan that best fits your needs and budget using a credit card and completing the online application.

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Review the policy documents and save them for future use
Review the US Green Card medical insurance policy documents received by email for coverage details and contact numbers.

Factors to buy Best US health insurance for Green Card holders

Age of the Green Card holder

The cost of US health insurance is directly proportional to the age of the Green Card holder. The older the Green Card holder and greater will be the cost of the US health insurance.

Types of US medical insurance for Green Card holders

Comprehensive health insurance which provide exhaustive coverage are more expensive than fixed benefit medical insurance.

Medical maximum coverage and deductible options

The price of medical insurance is directly dependant on the maximum medical coverage and inversely proportional to the deductible of the plan chosen.

Duration of US health insurance for Green Card holder

The longer the duration of medical insurance required, the higher will be the cost.

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Impact of Obamacare for US Green Card holders (US resident aliens)

Green Card holders qualify for insurance under the Affordable Care Act (Obama Care program) through the insurance market place.

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Senior citizen travel insurance

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Green card holders insurance providers

You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Global Underwriters, Trawick International and INF insurance.

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