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Nope!
The Essential Plan is a $0 health insurance program created by the New York State of Health, backed by UnitedHealthcare, Fidelis Care, Emblem Health and serviced by Kimber Health. It provides comprehensive health coverage to eligible New York residents, including free emergency care, free mental healthcare, free hospital stays and more!
As a fellow international student, I understand the concern that this might have on your immigration and student status. However, applying for the Essential Plan won’t affect your immigration status or application for status due to the fact that it is a state-funded program. Furthermore, your immigration status will not be shared with federal immigration authorities¹.
As stated in the NY State of Health’s website, student visa holders are eligible for the Essential Plan and should enroll in health insurance because they may be liable for a federal tax penalty under the Affordable Care Act if they do not have insurance!
Now, who’s eligible for such a great plan? In general, you qualify if you are:
Over 21 years old
A New York resident
An F-1/F-2/J-1 student
If you do not meet the requirements for the $0 Essential Plan, there are other affordable healthcare plans available for the international student community!
Kimber Health by NYWPG is dedicated to providing international students and immigrants with low-cost or free health coverage. Our team of professionals are ready to help guide you through the application process, explain plan benefits and determine your eligibility.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll be more than happy to answer!
Healthcare is a right, not a privilege.
*Please visit www.nystateofhealth.com for the most up-to-date information about $0 healthcare plans.
Welcome to Kimber Health, the premier healthcare solution for international students from over 100 countries. Our mission is to provide exceptional yet affordable healthcare options that cater to the unique needs of the global student community. Experience comprehensive healthcare coverage with our groundbreaking $0 Essential Plan, which offers a suite of benefits including free preventive care, dental and vision care, and even a gym membership reimbursement. We also have competitively priced plans are designed to not only meet but exceed university waiver requirements, enabling students to easily waive their university insurance and save thousands of dollars each year. Choose Kimber Health for cost-effective, high-quality healthcare that supports your educational journey abroad.