Noncitizen adults

Beginning Oct. 1, 2026, federal law changes who can qualify for federally funded Medical Assistance based on immigration status.

star-icon

Does this apply to me?

This applies to noncitizen adults age 21 or older who are not pregnant who have certain immigration statuses such as refugees, asylees, Afghan and Ukrainian humanitarian parolees, trafficking victims, battered noncitizens, and qualified noncitizen veterans.

In June 2026, the Minnesota Department of Human Services will send you a letter through the mail if your case information shows this change applies to you. 

noncitizen-icon

Other changes

work-requirement-iconWork requirements
six-month-renewals-iconSix-month renewals
retroactvie-coverage-iconRetroactive coverage

What can I expect?

  • During late August through early September 2026, we will review MA cases for people who might no longer qualify for MA based on immigration status. If you no longer qualify, we will mail a notice to you that says your MA coverage will end Sept. 30, 2026.
  • You may qualify for MinnesotaCare or another health care program if you are lawfully present and meet other program criteria. We will mail a request to you if more information is needed to determine if you are eligible.

Who will still qualify for Medical Assistance?

Beginning Oct. 1, 2026, Medical Assistance eligibility for noncitizen adults age 21 or older who are not pregnant is limited to:

  • Lawful permanent residents (LPRs or “green card holders”) who satisfy a five-year waiting period or meet an exception
  • Cuban or Haitian entrants
  • Compact of Free Association (COFA) migrants – people who are citizens of Micronesia, Palau and the Marshall Islands.

Medical Assistance coverage continues to be available to noncitizen:

  • Children under age 21 who are lawfully present
  • People who are pregnant regardless of their immigration status
 

Do this now if noncitizen changes apply to you

telehelp-icon

Get help

  • You can get free help from a navigator. Visit mnsure.org/help/findassister.
  • The Refugee and Immigrant Helpline is a connection to helpful information, resources and services in your community. Call the Helpline at 800-814-4806 or visit: mn.gov/dhs/resettlement. Note, the Helpline does not assist people in applying for coverage or assess their eligibility.
  • Contact a trusted legal expert if you have immigration-related questions.