Immigrants in the United States have different options for accessing basic healthcare. Now, California is promoting an initiative that would allow immigrants access to low-cost or even free healthcare. This benefit is available under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as ‘Obamacare’. This support is part of the Covered California program, which facilitates access to health insurance through the state and the California Department of Health Services.
Unlike Medi-Cal, this program continues to provide free or low-cost options to certain immigrants legally residing in the state. This system allows them to compare health plans, access federal subsidies, and find options with no cost or minimal payments, depending on their household income. This health coverage is available to those who meet legal residency or humanitarian protection requirements.
Immigrants eligible for Covered California:
Green card holders; legal temporary residents; refugees and asylum seekers; holders of humanitarian protection or temporary protected status; and holders of work or study visas.
This announcement comes after Governor Gavin Newsom released his 2025-2026 fiscal year plan, which includes eliminating free Medi-Cal benefits for undocumented immigrants as part of a strategy to address the decline in state revenue caused, in part, by tariffs imposed by the federal government. The governor argued that the $16 billion fiscal deficit requires drastic decisions. Among the changes, Newsom proposes that undocumented immigrants pay $100 a month to access coverage, starting January 1, 2026. Emergency services, pregnancy care, and child care would remain free.
Recall that at the end of last month, Governor Gavin Newson said this about the OBBB: “The so-called ‘Big, Beautiful bill’ is not cost-saving. It is not smart. It is cruel, costly, and a significant encroachment on states’ rights – the opposite of what Republican leadership claims to stand for. Big government is getting bigger under Trump and Speaker Johnson, as they attempt to dictate every move states make and micromanage Americans through even greater bureaucracy. It’s dangerous, and anyone with common sense should oppose it.”
The average monthly premium is $136 for those receiving subsidies
With nearly 15 million residents enrolled in Medi-Cal, California has more to lose in terms of health care than any other state. However, while Newsom has condemned Trump’s approach to tariffs and environmental policies, he has remained tight-lipped on health policy.
So far, according to Covered California, the average monthly premium is $136 for those receiving subsidies, two-thirds of whom pay $10 or less per month. But people with higher incomes can end up paying significantly more. For example, a family of four earning $200,000 in the Los Angeles area would pay more than $1,000 per month for a Silver plan, according to a cost calculator.
Enrollment is also available online through the official Covered California website
To benefit from this plan, interested parties can easily enroll by calling (800) 300-0213, where they will receive personalized guidance. Alternatively, you can visit a certified registrar or request assistance directly from your county health office. Enrollment is also available online through the official Covered California website.
There’s no exact definition for a sanctuary city, but Los Angeles is one of them. At least until the beginning of this year. Sanctuary cities are places in the United States that protect undocumented immigrants and offer them some benefits that are considered basic. So, given the recent news, the riots and demonstrations in the state, this news may bring relief to many families in one of the country’s key states.
