Health Coverage Available to Kentucky’s Immigrant Population
Immigrants in Kentucky may be eligible for a variety of health insurance programs offered in the Commonwealth. Below is an overview of eligibility for these programs based on immigration status.
Immigrants who are “qualified immigrants” are generally eligible for Qualified Health Plans (QHP), Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTC), Medicaid and Kentucky Children's Health Insurance Program (KCHIP) coverage if they meet income eligibility rules. Note that some “qualified immigrants” may be subject to a 5-year waiting period to receive Medicaid and KCHIP. For more detailed information, please reference the Understanding Immigration and Eligibility Quick Reference Guide.
Undocumented immigrants aren’t eligible to buy Marketplace health coverage, or for premium tax credits and other savings on Marketplace plans. But they may apply for coverage on behalf of documented individuals.
Currently, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is not an eligible immigration status for applying for health insurance.
Individuals granted Deferred Action for Childhood
Arrivals (DACA) will be able to enroll in QHPs with APTC beginning November 1, 2024.
Refugees, Asylees, and Other Humanitarian Immigrants
Eligible for Medicaid, KCHIP
Eligible for Qualified Health Plan (QHP), Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)
Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders) Adults 19 and Older
Eligible for Medicaid after 5-year bar.
Eligible for Qualified Health Plan (QHP), Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)
Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders) Children under 19 and Women Who are Pregnant
Eligible for Medicaid No 5-year bar.
Eligible for Qualified Health Plan (QHP), Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)
Other Lawfully Present Individuals Adults 19 and Older
Eligible for Medicaid after 5-year bar.
Eligible for Qualified Health Plan (QHP), Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)
Undocumented Immigrants and DACA Recipients
Not Eligible for Medicaid.
Not Eligible for Qualified Health Plan (QHP), Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)
May be eligible for Emergency Time Limited Medicaid.
May be eligible for Presumptive Eligibility if pregnant.
Individuals granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) will be able to enroll in QHPs with APTC beginning November 1, 2024.
Please Remember: Information about immigration status will be used only to determine eligibility for coverage and not for immigration enforcement.