Health Insurance for Mother-in Law

[jodari62 1]

Hello...my mother-in-law is 64 years old. After my wife is here permanently, we are considering bringing her mother here on a immigrant visa. Will she qualify for anything like medicare, etc.? Or, will we have to buy regular insurance for her? Thanks!

[leonje 1]

No, she would not be eligible for Medicare or Medicaid. Permanent residents are not eligible for Medicare until they have resided in the US for at least 5 years (and of course meet age requirements). However, unless the permanent resident has worked for 10 years and paid into Medicare, she would have to pay a costly monthly premium. Permanent residents are able to participate in the health care exchanges and can purchase health insurance this way.
It's important to note that wife won't be able to sponsor her mother until she becomes a US citizen. Permanent residents cannot sponsor parents.

[Transborderwife 4,666]

Seconding the point that she cannot petition her mother without being a citizen. And no, you cannot petition an in law.