Last updated: August 15, 2024

Health Benefits for Immigrants 65 Years or Older

There is a health insurance program in Illinois for non-citizens age 65 and over who do not meet immigration status requirements for Medicaid. 

To learn more, see our fact sheet.

Who is Eligible?

You may be eligible for this new program if you:

• Are 65 years old or older, AND
• An undocumented immigrant OR have another immigration status that makes you ineligible for traditional Medicaid; AND
• You are not a green card holder or legal permanent resident in the U.S. who has had that immigration status for less than five years; AND
• Have Income under 100% FPL* AND
• Have assets below $17,500 

* Your medical bills can be deducted from your income or your assets so you may qualify even if you have income above this amount.

How Does it Work?

 The new health insurance program provides comprehensive healthcare coverage without premiums. 

Covered services include: doctor and hospital care, lab tests, rehabilitative services such as physical and occupational therapy, mental health and substance use disorder services, dental and vision services, and prescription drugs.  Nursing facility services and home and community-based services will not be covered.

What about Public Charge?

Getting healthcare services through this program will not count against you for the public charge test.

How Do I Apply?

New enrollment in this program is currently paused.

For more information, contact:
– Office of Welcoming Centers for Refugee and Immigrant Services Bureau of Refugee and Immigrant Services at 312-793-2705, or

– Immigrant Family Resource Programs website or the ICIRR Health Hotline: 815-435-7693