Changes for Immigrants

A new federal law, H.R. 1 (OBBBA), was signed on July 4, 2025. It changes who is considered a ‘qualified immigrant’ for Medicaid. 

Some groups that used to be eligible for Medicaid may not be able to get it anymore under the new law. This includes refugees and asylees, humanitarian parolees, and survivors of trafficking or domestic violence. 

Starting October 1, 2026, Medicaid will mostly be for:

• U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals

• Green card holders (Lawful Permanent Residents) who have been in the U.S. for 5 years or more
• People from Cuba or Haiti who entered under special rules
• COFA migrants (citizens of Marshall Islands, Micronesia, or Palau)
  • Note: Children and pregnant people may still be able to get health insurance even if the rules for others have changed. 

If your coverage is affected, you will receive a personal letter by October 1, 2026, with instructions and information on how to appeal if you disagree.

If you are worried about losing your Medicaid coverage in the future, you may want to schedule a doctor’s appointment soon. You may also want to refill your prescriptions before October 2026. This will help you get the care and medicine you need while you still have coverage.