Won’t the Essential Plan affect my immigration status?
Nope!
The Essential Plan is a $0 health insurance program created by the New York State of Health, backed by UnitedHealthcare, Fidelis Care, Emblem Health and serviced by Kimber Health. It provides comprehensive health coverage to eligible New York residents, including fully covered emergency care, mental healthcare, hospital stays and more!
As a fellow international student, I understand the concern that this might have on your immigration and student status. However, applying for the Essential Plan won’t affect your immigration status or application for status due to the fact that it is a state-funded program. Furthermore, your immigration status will not be shared with federal immigration authorities.
As stated in the NY State of Health’s website, student visa holders are eligible for the Essential Plan and should enroll in health insurance because they may be liable for a federal tax penalty under the Affordable Care Act if they do not have insurance!
Now, who’s eligible for such a great plan? In general, you qualify if you are:
- Over 21 years old
- A New York resident
- An F-1/F-2/J-1 student
If you do not meet the requirements for the $0 Essential Plan, there are other affordable healthcare plans available for the international student community!
Kimber Health by NYWPG is dedicated to providing international students and immigrants with low-cost or $0 health coverage. Our team of professionals are ready to help guide you through the application process, explain plan benefits and determine your eligibility.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll be more than happy to answer!
Healthcare is a right, not a privilege.
All immigration information is taken from New York State and New York City sources.
*Please visit www.nystateofhealth.com for the most up-to-date information about $0 healthcare plans.
