Best Texas Health Insurance for Green Card holders in 2026
Affordable Green Card health insurance in Texas - starting from less than $2 a day.
Looking for the Best Medical Insurance for Green Card Holders in Texas? Get a free quote & compare top plans in minutes.
Best Health Insurance Plans for Green Card Holders in Texas
- Cheapest Insurance for Green Card Holders - Safe Travels Elite from $44/month (Fixed Benefit Coverage)
- Best Health Insurance for Green Card Holders - Patriot America Plus Flexible coverage and strong PPO network Recommended
- Most Popular Green Card Holder Insurance - Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Acute Onset Coverage
- Best Medical Insurance for Green Card Holders Over 65 - INF Premier X Coverage up to age 99
- Pre-Existing Condition Coverage (Full pre-ex) - INF Elite X Available Up to Age 99 + Higher Medical Coverage
- Looking for more options? - Compare all available health insurance plans for Green Card holders in one place.
Health Insurance for Green Card Holders in Texas
New Green Card holders in Texas often face a coverage gap when they first arrive in the United States. Because many government programs, including Medicaid and Medicare have strict eligibility rules and waiting periods, recent permanent residents typically need private health insurance to stay protected during their initial years.
Fortunately, there are several affordable health insurance options available for Green Card holders in Texas. The right choice depends on factors such as age, employment status, travel frequency, and how long you have lived in the USA. Comparing plans carefully can help you avoid unexpected medical expenses while ensuring you have access to quality healthcare.
American Visitor Insurance provides assistance to new immigrants and permanent residents compare flexible health insurance plans. Our platform provides an easy solution for finding the right coverage which you need, whether you require temporary insurance or visitor protection for your parents or comprehensive coverage while waiting for long-term benefits.
Why Health Insurance Is Important for Green Card Holders in Texas?
Health insurance is essential for Green Card holders living in Texas to need protection against expensive medical bills while they should receive proper medical treatment. Here’s why it matters.
- High Healthcare Costs in Texas: Texas hospital visit can cost $15,000+. Without insurance, even for basic doctor visits and emergency medical treatment can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses.
- Access to Better Medical Care: Insurance helps Green Card holders access a wider network of doctors, specialists, hospitals, and preventive services.
- Financial Protection During Emergencies: The costs of sudden medical emergencies which include unexpected illnesses, accidents and hospital stays can easily reach thousands of dollars. Health insurance provides people with their most effective method to protect themselves from financial losses.
- Preventive Care Benefits: Most plans cover annual checkups, screenings, and vaccinations, helping detect health issues early and maintain long-term wellness.
- Compliance and Stability: Health coverage requirements exist at the federal level but having health coverage helps people maintain their financial stability while they make responsible residency choices in the U.S.
- Peace of Mind for Families: Insurance provides your family with the ability to obtain necessary medical treatment at any moment while they do not need to stress about massive healthcare expenses.
How Green Card Holders in Texas Can Find the Right Health Insurance?
Texas Green Card holders have multiple options to obtain health insurance. Some individuals will be eligible for domestic U.S. health programs while others may require private insurance coverage during their first few years in the United States.
- ACA Marketplace Plans
Many Green Card holders may qualify for Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace plans and could receive premium subsidies based on income. - Medicaid and CHIP Programs
These government programs provide coverage for eligible low-income individuals and families. However, many new Green Card holders must complete a five-year waiting period before qualifying in Texas. - Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance
Some immigrants receive health insurance through their employer if this benefit is offered at their workplace. - Off-Marketplace ACA Plans
Private ACA-compliant plans may be available outside the Marketplace for individuals who miss open enrollment.
Coverage Options for New Green Card Holders
Many new Green Card holders are not immediately eligible for government programs such as Medicaid or Medicare, and employer coverage may not always be available. Private medical insurance provides financial protection during this time by covering unexpected healthcare expenses.
Bridge the Coverage Gap with Private Green Card Health Insurance
Unlike government programs with strict eligibility rules and limited enrollment periods, private visitor medical insurance plans available through American Visitor Insurance can be purchased online anytime, often with next-day coverage.
These Green Card Holder insurance plans offer:
- Customizable deductibles
- High coverage maximums
- Emergency medical coverage
- Options that include acute onset of pre-existing conditions
This makes them a practical solution for:
- New Green Card holders waiting for ACA eligibility
- Seniors waiting for Medicare qualification
- Families relocating to Texas
- Parents of immigrants needing coverage
What Health Insurance Covers for Green Card Holders in Texas?
- Multi-Trip or Annual travel insurance Plans: If Green Card holders plan to travel frequently, they may consider multi-trip or annual travel insurance to Texas. These plans provide coverage for multiple trips within a specified period.
- Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage: Some health insurance for Green Card holders to Texas may offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. It's essential to review the policy terms to understand the extent of coverage and any exclusions.
- Emergency Medical Coverage: Look for plans that provide robust coverage for emergency medical expenses, including hospitalization, medical evacuation, and repatriation.
- 24/7 Assistance Services: Choose a travel insurance plan that offers 24/7 emergency assistance services. This can be valuable in case of unexpected situations or if you need help while abroad.
- Policy Exclusions and Limitations: Carefully review the policy exclusions, limitations, and any specific conditions. Ensure that the travel insurance plan aligns with your specific needs and travel activities.
How Much Does Health Insurance for Green Card Holders in Texas Cost in 2026?
The cost of health insurance for Green Card holders in the U.S. varies depending on several key factors — such as age, coverage amount, deductible, and whether the plan includes pre-existing condition coverage. Typically, health insurance premiums for Green Card holders range from $44 to $403 per month.
Whether you are a new permanent resident or a long-term Green Card holder, it’s important to compare different health insurance plans to find one that offers:
- Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies and preventive care
- Affordable premiums that fit your budget
- Access to quality healthcare providers across the U.S.
For example, here we are showing the average health insurance cost for Green Card holders per month.
| Plan Name | Max coverage | Deductible | Age 40 | Age 50 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels Elite Trawick International | $50,000 | $0 | $44 | $61 | $76 | $109 |
| Patriot America Lite IMG | $50,000 | $250 | $72 | $120 | $153 | $252 |
| Patriot America Plus IMG | $50,000 | $250 | $77 | $128 | $164 | $289 |
| INF Standard X INF Insurance | $50,000 | $250 | $58 | $69 | $77 | $269 |
| Safe Traveles USA Trawick International | $50,000 | $250 | $85 | $127 | $147 | $252 |
| Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Trawick International | $50,000 | $250 | $90 | $148 | $172 | $294 |
| SafeVista Protect INF Insurance | $100,000 | $250 | $108 | $174 | $230 | $320 |
| Diplomat America Global Underwriters | $50,000 | $250 | $143 | $207 | $261 | $403 |
Top Medical Insurance Plans for Green Card Holders in Texas in 2026
Cheapest Health Insurance for Texas Green Card Holders
Safe Travels Elite
Max Coverage: $50,000 | Deductible: $0
- Low-cost medical insurance for Green Card holders
- Medical maximum up to $175,000
- Deductible option $0 up to age 69
- Coverage for Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions up to Age 89
Other affordable Green Card health insurance plans include Patriot America Lite, INF Standard X.
Best Health Insurance for Texas Green Card Holders
Patriot America Plus
Max Coverage: $50,000 | Deductible: $250
- Best budget-friendly health insurance for Green Card holders
- Medical maximum up to $1,000,000
- Deductible options from $0 to $2,500
- Acute onset coverage up to policy maximum (under age 70)
Other top recommended Green Card insurance plans include Safe Travels USA Comprehensive, INF Elite X.
Which Type of Green Card Holder Are You?
🏠 Green Card Holders Permanently Residing in the U.S.
Green Card Holders who live permanently in the United States are generally eligible for domestic U.S. health insurance plans. Eligibility, however, depends on their age of the Green Card Holder and duration of stay in the U.S.
- Those who are 65 years or older and have lived in the U.S. for at least five years may qualify for Medicare. However, Medicare does not cover healthcare outside the United States, which is important for Green Card Holders who travel frequently to their home countries.
- For seniors who are not yet eligible for Medicare or domestic health insurance, there are specialized plans designed for older Green Card holders and visitors that provide coverage both in the U.S. and abroad.
- The best health insurance options for Green Card holders who are over 65 and ineligible for Medicare include Safe Travels USA Cost Saver, Safe Travels Elite, Diplomat America, and INF insurance.
- Green Card holders who are under 65 and working should first try to obtain health insurance through their employer.
- If employer coverage is not available, they can purchase short-term travel health insurance such as Patriot America Lite and Safe Travels USA until they become eligible for U.S. domestic health insurance plans.
✈️ Green Card Holders Who Travel Often Between the U.S. and their Home Country
Green Card Holders who frequently travel back and forth between the U.S. and their country of origin face unique challenges and considerations due to their residency status and the need to maintain their U.S. permanent residency. To maintain a Green Card, U.S. permanent residents must primarily reside in the U.S.
Frequent or long stays in their home country may lead U.S. authorities to view it as an abandonment of residency if not properly managed. For Green Card Holders who frequently travel for short periods (a few days or weeks at a time), there’s typically less risk of jeopardizing their residency status, as long as the U.S. remains their primary residence.
Green Card Holders who travel often between their home country and the U.S can purchase:
- Short-term travel medical insurance: Covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and travel disruptions while outside the U.S.
Best health insurance for Green Card holders from Texas - Annual multi-trip travel insurance: Suitable for Green Card Holders who make multiple trips throughout the year. These plans offer coverage for several trips annually, including emergency medical care and trip interruption benefits, and are often more cost-effective than buying separate policies for each trip.
Best Annual travel health insurance for Green Card holders from Texas
🛡️ Health Insurance Options for New Green Card Holders and Immigrants
New Green Card Holders and recent immigrants to the U.S. including parents or family members who have just arrived often face a gap before becoming eligible for domestic U.S. health insurance such as ACA Marketplace plans, employer coverage, or Medicare.
During this transition period, they can purchase visitor or short term travel medical insurance for Green Card Holders from Texas to stay protected. These temporary plans are designed for new immigrants and cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and other travel-related incidents while in the U.S.
⏳ Applied and waiting for Green Card
If you have applied for a Green Card and are waiting for permanent residency, visitor health insurance can provide essential temporary coverage. These plans help protect you from unexpected medical expenses until you become eligible for domestic U.S. health insurance options.
Health Insurance Scenarios for Green Card Holders in Texas
Understanding your situation helps you choose the right health insurance. Here are common scenarios and the best coverage paths.
Scenario 1: Newly Arrived Parents in Texas
Situation: Many families purchase visitor medical insurance for parents who recently received their Green Card and are still waiting to qualify for Medicare or employer coverage.
Best fit: Visitor or new immigrant insurance plans with acute onset of pre-existing condition benefits, including Patriot America Lite and Safe Travels USA.
Scenario 2: Senior Immigrants Age 65+ (Under 5 Years in the U.S.)
Situation: Many seniors are not yet eligible for Medicare due to the five-year residency rule and often rely on visitor or immigrant insurance for affordable protection.
Best fit: New immigrant or visitor insurance plans with emergency medical coverage, including Safe Travels USA Comprehensive and INF Elite X.
What Is the Difference Between ACA Marketplace and Visitor Insurance?
| Feature | ACA Marketplace Plans | Visitor Insurance Plans |
|---|---|---|
| Who Can Apply | Citizens and eligible permanent residents | Visitors, new immigrants, and Green Card holders |
| Pre-existing Conditions | Fully covered | Acute onset only on most plans |
| Preventive Care | Included and fully covered | Generally not included |
| Enrollment Period | Open enrollment or qualifying life event | Available year-round |
| Coverage Start | Future effective date (may take weeks) | Often next day |
| Monthly Premium | Higher (may be reduced with subsidy) | Typically lower |
| Best For | Long-term residents needing comprehensive care | New arrivals and temporary coverage needs |
American Visitor Insurance plans offer flexible and accessible coverage for visitors, new immigrants, and Green Card holders in the United States. Unlike government programs with strict eligibility and limited enrollment periods, these plans can be purchased online anytime, often with next-day coverage.
With customizable deductibles, high coverage maximums, and options that may include acute onset of pre-existing conditions, these plans help bridge coverage gaps for those not yet eligible for ACA, Medicaid, or Medicare.
Are Senior Green Card Holders Eligible for Medicare?
Green Card Holders (lawful permanent residents) in the U.S. can qualify for Medicare, if they meet certain requirements related to age, residency duration, and work history.
To be eligible for Medicare, Green Card Holders must meet the following conditions:
- Be 65 years or older, or
- Be under 65 with a qualifying disability (such as receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months, or having End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)).
- Must have lived in the United States for at least 5 consecutive years as a lawful permanent resident before applying for Medicare.
- Must have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters) in the U.S., or
- Be married to someone who meets this work history requirement.
Medicare Costs for Green Card Holders
If you don’t have enough work history to qualify for premium-free Part A, you can still enroll by paying premiums:
Part A (Hospital Insurance)- $518/month if you worked fewer than 30 quarters
- $285/month if you worked 30–39 quarters
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).
Best Medical Insurance Plans for Senior Green Card Holders in Texas
Compare the best medical insurance plans for senior Green Card holders in Texas, selected based on age, coverage levels, and plans that offer affordable options and pre-existing condition coverage.
- Patriot America Plus - Best for acute onset coverage
- Safe Travels USA Cost Saver - Most affordable visitor insurance
- INF Premier X - Best for pre-existing condition coverage
- Safe Travels USA Comprehensive - Higher coverage limits
- INF Elite X - Best travel insurance for seniors over 80
- Visitors Protect - Covers pre-existing conditions
How Green Card Holders in Texas Can Switch to Visitor Insurance Plans?
When Texas Green Card Holders Can Purchase Visitor Insurance?
If you are no longer eligible for a Texas state or U.S. government health plan, you can purchase an American Visitor Insurance plan to help maintain coverage. Visitor insurance plans from American Visitor Insurance are designed to be flexible and easy to purchase. State plans (like ACA, Medicare, or Medicaid) have specific eligibility rules and enrollment periods, so you would first need to cancel or end your state coverage if you no longer qualify or no longer need it.
How Visitor Insurance Works After State Coverage Ends?
Once your state plan ends then you are free to purchase a new visitor medical insurance or New US immigrant insurance policy from American Visitor Insurance at any time and is no waiting periods or open enrollment restrictions for these plans. You can apply online and coverage can start as soon as the next day. However, it is important to be aware that you cannot simply switch between plans mid-policy but have to cancel your current plan and then enroll in a new one.
Visitor Insurance Cancellation and Refund Policy
Most visitor medical insurance plans allow you to cancel before the policy starts for a full refund and some allow cancellation after the start date if there have been no claims usually with a small fee. Always check the specific cancellation and refund policy of your plan before making changes.
Avoiding Gaps in Health Insurance Coverage
If your circumstances change such as losing state coverage changing your immigration status and needing different coverage then you can end your state plan and buy a new policy from American Visitor Insurance without delay. Just be sure to coordinate the end of your current coverage and the start of your new plan to avoid any gaps in protection. This flexibility makes American Visitor Insurance a practical choice for those whose eligibility and needs may change after arriving in the US.
How Pre-Existing Conditions Are Covered in Texas Health Insurance Plans?
When you are looking at health insurance in Texas, how pre-existing conditions are covered can vary a lot depending on the type of plan you pick.
- ACA compliant plans are legally required to cover all pre-existing conditions.
- These plans are available through the Health Insurance Marketplace for US residents and eligible immigrants.
- They include routine doctor visits, ongoing treatment, prescriptions, and chronic illness care.
- However, these plans:
- Usually require US residency or qualifying status
- Have limited enrollment periods
- May not be practical for short-term visitors, parents visiting the USA, or tourists
- Most visitor insurance plans do not cover routine care or long-term treatment for pre-existing conditions.
- Many plans provide acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage, which means:
- Coverage for sudden and unexpected medical emergencies
- Examples include heart attack, stroke, or sudden complications
- These plans are often the best option for visitors to the USA, including:
- Parents visiting children
- Tourists
- Temporary travelers
- They provide affordable protection against high US medical costs during the visit.
- Many seniors and new immigrants already have existing medical conditions.
- While visitor insurance has limitations, some plans:
- Offer acute onset coverage for older travelers
- Provide eligibility up to age 99
- Visitor insurance can be especially useful for:
- New Green Card holders waiting for ACA or Medicare eligibility
- Parents visiting the USA for several months
- It acts as a financial safety net during the waiting period before comprehensive coverage becomes available.
What If You Recently Arrived in Texas and Do Not Have a Job Yet?
If you’re a new Green Card holder who just arrived in Texas and don’t have a job yet, you still have several health insurance options to protect yourself from high medical costs.
- Since you may not be eligible for employer-sponsored insurance or government programs right away, short-term health insurance or visitor insurance available on American Visitor Insurance is a practical choice.
- These plans are easy to buy online and can start immediately.
- They are designed for people in transition such as new immigrants, recent arrivals, or those between jobs.
- Coverage includes emergencies, hospitalization, and some doctor visits.
- They usually do not cover preventive care or ongoing treatment for pre-existing conditions except for acute onset.
- Examples of popular Texas visitor health insurance plans such as Safe Travels Advantage, Safe Travels Elite, and Visitors Care, which can be easily compared and purchased through American Visitor Insurance.
- As a lawfully present immigrant, you can also apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
- You do not need a job to apply and you may qualify for premium subsidies based on your income.
- You can enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period such as after recently arriving in the U.S.
- These plans offer comprehensive coverage including preventive care and pre-existing conditions.
- Once you get a job with health benefits.
- Or become eligible for government programs such as Medicaid or Medicare after meeting residency and other requirements.
- Until then, visitor insurance plans from American Visitor Insurance can help provide immediate protection during this transition period.
Medical Insurance for Green Card Holders in Texas - FAQ's
1. Do green card holders need health insurance in Texas?
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.
2. Can Green Card holders in Texas buy visitor health insurance?
Yes. Green Card holders in Texas can purchase visitor health insurance or U.S. health insurance for new immigrants in Texas, especially while waiting for employer-sponsored health insurance, Medicare eligibility, or other long-term U.S. health plans. Plans such as Patriot America Plus and Patriot Platinum America are available for Green Card holders whose primary residence listed on the application is outside the United States.
These short-term medical insurance plans for green card holders help cover unexpected medical expenses such as hospitalization, doctor visits, and emergencies, but they typically do not cover preventive care or regular treatment for pre-existing conditions.
Green Card holders can easily compare plans, get quotes, and purchase coverage online by providing their age and the dates they need insurance. Coverage can often begin as early as the next day, helping avoid gaps in protection. To explore all available options, visit our Green Card health insurance plans page.
3. Can new Green Card holders buy health insurance immediately after arriving in Texas?
Yes. New Green Card holders can purchase private visitor or immigrant health insurance immediately after arriving in Texas. Many temporary health insurance for new green card holders plans available through American Visitor Insurance allow you to apply online and can start coverage as early as the next day, helping protect you from unexpected medical expenses.
4. Are Green Card holders eligible for Medicare in Texas?
Green Card holders in Texas may be eligible for Medicare, but eligibility depends on certain requirements such as:
- Being 65 years or older, or qualifying due to a disability
- Living in the United States for at least five years as a permanent resident
- Meeting Medicare work history requirements (usually 40 quarters / 10 years of work in the U.S.) or paying Medicare premiums
If a Green Card holder does not yet qualify for Medicare, they can consider new immigrant health insurance plans to help cover medical expenses during this waiting period.
5. Can Green Card holders get health insurance through their employer in Texas?
Yes. Many Green Card holders can receive health insurance through their employer if the company offers employee health benefits. Employer-sponsored health insurance stands as one of the most affordable and comprehensive methods through which people can obtain medical coverage in the United States. Green Card holders who is not eligible for the employer coverage can purchase private short-term health insurance for green card holders in Texas until they qualify for other options.
6. Does visitor insurance cover pre-existing conditions for Green Card holders in Texas?
Most visitor insurance plans do not cover routine treatment or ongoing care for pre-existing conditions. However, some plans may provide limited coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, meaning sudden and unexpected medical emergencies related to a condition may be covered under certain limits.
Texas green card health insurance plans such as Patriot America Plus and Safe Travels USA Comprehensive offer coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. In addition, some INF insurance plans may offer broader coverage options that include benefits for pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan selected.
7. When should new immigrants in Texas buy health insurance?
New immigrants should purchase health insurance as soon as possible after arriving in Texas. Buying coverage early helps avoid gaps in protection and ensures financial protection in case of unexpected medical emergencies. If they are not yet eligible for employer-sponsored or government health insurance programs, they can buy best health insurance for new immigrants Texas plans through American Visitor Insurance, which can start coverage quickly and help protect them during the transition period.
8. Can you get health insurance while waiting for Green Card?
Yes, you can obtain health insurance while waiting for your Green Card, though your options may vary depending on your specific circumstances, such as your visa status, location, and income level.
Short-term health insurance is available to those who need temporary coverage while waiting for more permanent options, like a Green Card. These plans usually cover emergency services, hospitalization, and some doctor visits, but they may not cover comprehensive care like preventive services, maternity care, or mental health services. If you are an immigrant waiting for your Green Card but still travel frequently or have ties to another country, you might consider an international health insurance plan. These plans provide coverage both in the U.S. and abroad, making them ideal for people who need flexibility. They typically offer a range of benefits, from emergency care to routine checkups.
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