Every year, hundreds of thousands of agricultural workers from Mexico and Central America come to the USA on H-2A visas for temporary work. H-2A visa medical insurance can cover costs while they are in the U.S.
H-2A workers may be able to get health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. Moving to the U.S. from another country may also give a worker a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). In many cases, the worker has up to 60 days after the move to enroll.
A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) is extra time to enroll in Marketplace health insurance outside the regular enrollment period.
Some employers may be required by law to offer health insurance to full-time employees.
H-2A visa holder agricultural workers may not receive health insurance from their employer. Workers may need to find their own health insurance. There is no federal penalty for not having health insurance, but workers may have to pay their own medical bills.
Workers’ compensation insurance does not qualify as H-2A visa health insurance. It covers work-related injuries and illnesses, but not non-work-related injuries or illnesses.
For example, a worker may get sick after work or get injured on a day off. A worker may also have a medical emergency over the weekend. Workers’ compensation would not normally cover care in these situations.
Healthcare in the U.S. can be expensive. A visit to the emergency room can cost thousands of dollars, especially when treatment or tests are needed. More serious medical care can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Many workers may not even seek medical care due to lack of knowledge or fear.
Fortunately, several affordable plans offer short term medical insurance for H-2A workers. These plans may cover new illnesses, injuries, or accidents that happen after the policy starts. They don't cover routine care related to pre-existing conditions, maternity, or a wellness checkup.
Workers looking for agricultural workers medical insurance can buy individual medical insurance for themselves.
Employers, farm labor contractors, and grower associations can buy group medical insurance to cover workers.
Buying H-2A visa agricultural health insurance is quick and easy. There is no paperwork required. You can get instant quotes for insurance plans, compare plans side by side, and buy coverage online.