The Minnesota Legislature has ended MinnesotaCare eligibility for adults who are undocumented. The changes took effect on Sunday, June 15, 2025. The Department of Human Services (DHS) is working to implement the new policy and reduce confusion.
Adults who are undocumented and currently enrolled in MinnesotaCare will remain eligible through December 31, 2025, if they continue to meet income and other eligibility requirements and pay their premiums. However, new applications from adults who are undocumented will now be denied.
Children Under 18 Remain Eligible
Children under age 18 who are undocumented and from low-income families will keep their MinnesotaCare coverage and can continue to apply and gain new eligibility.
Childhood is a critical time for brain development, education and lifelong health. Health care coverage can shape the trajectory of a child’s life. For eligible children who are undocumented, MinnesotaCare coverage can continue until the month after their 18th birthday.
Who Is Still Eligible for MinnesotaCare?
MinnesotaCare eligibility remains available for low-income Minnesotans who are:
- U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals.
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) grantees, also known as Dreamers.
- Residents who are lawfully present, as defined in the Minnesota Health Care Programs Eligibility Policy Manual.
- Children under age 18 who are undocumented.
Implementation Issues and Confusion Expected
In the coming weeks, adults who are undocumented may still appear eligible in the online application system due to delayed updates. However, those applicants will receive a denial letter by mail shortly after applying. DHS is working to educate partners and community members to minimize confusion.
Health Care Options for Minnesotans Who Are Undocumented
Even without MinnesotaCare, adult Minnesotans who are undocumented still have options:
- Emergency Medical Assistance remains available for people who are undocumented. This program pays for emergency care.
- Medical Assistance is available to any pregnant person regardless of immigration status and for 12 months postpartum, or after giving birth. Medical Assistance is also available for people receiving services at the Center for Victims of Torture.
- Minnesotans can receive health care from Minnesota Health Centers regardless of ability to pay.
- Minnesotans may be eligible for low-cost insulin through the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program.
The Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP) will continue to monitor these changes and share updates as they become available.
