Yes, H2B visa workers in Michigan can get $0 monthly ACA health insurance. You are lawfully present, so you qualify for Marketplace plans.
Who Qualifies for ACA Plans?
H2B visa holders are lawfully present in the U.S. That means you can enroll in health plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
To qualify, you must:
- Live in the U.S. and work legally (like on an H2B visa)
- Not be incarcerated
- File taxes or plan to file (you can file with an ITIN)
- Live in Michigan
Why You Can Enroll
The ACA (Affordable Care Act) says that anyone who is “lawfully present” can enroll in Marketplace insurance. H2B visas are temporary work visas approved by the U.S. government. That makes you lawfully present.
Lawfully present immigrants are eligible for ACA plans. This includes H2A and H2B workers. This rule is in 26 U.S.C. § 36B and 45 CFR § 152.2.
No Public Charge Risk
Using ACA health insurance will NOT hurt your immigration status. The U.S. government says ACA plans are not part of public charge.
Public charge applies to certain government cash benefits. Health coverage under the ACA is not one of them. You will not be denied a visa or green card for using your health plan.
Learn more at /facts/.
How Much Does It Cost?
Your premium could be $0 per month.
The government gives tax credits to lower your cost. These are called Advanced Premium Tax Credits (APTC). How much you get depends on your income and household size.
Most H2B workers earn under the federal poverty level when they arrive. That means you may qualify for $0 premiums and low out-of-pocket costs.
Example: A single worker earning $1,800/month may pay $0 for a Silver plan in Michigan.
What Does the Plan Cover?
ACA plans cover:
- Doctor visits
- Emergency care
- Hospital stays
- Prescription drugs
- Preventive care (like vaccines and check-ups)
You can see any doctor in the plan’s network. Some plans include urgent care and telehealth.
How to Enroll in Michigan
Follow these steps:
- Visit /michigan.html to start your application
- Enter your income, household size, and visa details
- Compare plans available in your county
- Pick a plan and enroll
You can apply anytime. Open Enrollment is over, but H2B workers qualify for a Special Enrollment Period because of a life change (new job in the U.S.).
What If You Work for a Carnival or Seasonal Job?
Many H2B workers in Michigan work at carnivals, fairs, or resorts. Your job is temporary, but your health coverage does not have to be.
You can keep your ACA plan as long as you are in the U.S. legally. If your work ends and you leave the U.S., your coverage stops. If you return on another H2B visa, you can re-enroll.
Some workers get help from employers. But even if your employer doesn’t offer insurance, you can still get a plan on your own.
Need Help Applying?
The application can be confusing. But we’re here to help — for free.
At Signature Insurance, we help H2A and H2B workers across the U.S. enroll in ACA plans. We speak Spanish and English. We understand your visa status.
Visit /about/ to learn more about us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can H2B workers really get $0 health insurance?
Yes. If your income is low, the government pays your monthly premium. You could pay $0.
Do I need a Social Security Number?
You don’t need an SSN to apply. You can use your passport and visa. If you have an ITIN, include it.
Can I use the plan outside Michigan?
Yes. ACA plans cover emergency care anywhere in the U.S. For non-emergency care, use in-network providers when possible.
Is Medicaid an option?
Most H2B workers do not qualify for Medicaid, even if income is low. But you still qualify for ACA plans with tax credits.
What happens if I get injured at work?
Your health plan covers medical care. For work-related injuries, your employer may also have workers’ comp. Your ACA plan can help while you wait.
Call 859-407-4888 for free enrollment help. We’ll walk you through every step. Or sign up online at /#signup.