You may be eligible for Medicare after 5 years of permanent residency in the United States. Your age, medical history, and work history also factor into your eligibility and overall cost.

Many immigrants are eligible for healthcare coverage in the United States. Your eligibility depends on your “qualified status” or route to immigration.

For example, if you have a green card — also known as a permanent resident card (I-551) — you’re considered a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the United States.

As long as they meet the other eligibility criteria, LPRs can enroll in Medicare, Medicaid, or Marketplace coverage.

You’re automatically eligible for Medicare if you have 5 years of permanent residency in the United States and are 65 years old or over.

If you’re under age 65 years, you may still be eligible for Medicare if you have 5 years of permanent residency in the United States and a qualifying disability.

In this case, you must meet the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to qualify. This includes:

  • being unable to work for a year or more due to a disability
  • having a certain amount of qualifying work credits, which varies based on age
  • not receiving retirement benefits at the time of your application

Permanent residents and citizens have the same out-of-pocket costs for Original Medicare (parts A and B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), and prescription drug (Part D) plans.

For example, you’re eligible for premium-free Part A (hospital insurance) once you or an immediate family member accumulates 40 qualifying quarters of work. This generally takes 10 years.

If you aren’t eligible for premium-free Part A, you can still purchase it out of pocket. You’ll pay either $278 or $505 per month.

Most people will pay a monthly premium of $174.70 for Part B (medical insurance). Your premium may be higher depending on your income.

Part C and Part D plans are sold by private insurance companies. Each plan sets its own cost and coverage amounts.

Permanent residents and citizens have the same enrollment process for Medicare.

Depending on your age, desired coverage, and overall circumstances, you may enroll during the:

  • initial enrollment period, which begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and ends 3 months after
  • general enrollment period, which occurs every year from January 1 to March 31
  • open enrollment period, which occurs every year from October 15 to December 7
  • special enrollment period, which varies depending on your specific situation

You might pay a late enrollment penalty if you do not enroll in Medicare once you’re able.

New immigrants to the United States are not eligible for Medicare. You must have at least 5 years of permanent residency to qualify for healthcare coverage.