Every year thousands of seniors move from other countries to the United States to be closer to family. Their families are thrilled to have their parents, aunts and uncles nearby, but they live with the fear that an older person's uninsured health crisis could wreak financial havoc on the entire family. Most don't know it, but there is a way for older people who are not citizens to receive Medicare benefits in the United States.

Foreign nationals who have permanent resident status may qualify to "buy" Medicare coverage if they have lived in the United States continuously for at least five years and if they are at least 65 years old. Most people who have worked and paid taxes in the U.S. will receive basic Medicare (Part A) at no additional cost when they reach age 65. Older people who have not worked or paid FICA taxes in the U.S. will usually be required to pay the Medicare Part A premium ($410 per month in 2007).

Permanent resident aliens who have lived in the US for at least five continuous years can apply for Part A Medicare either when they reach the age and residency requirements or during an open enrollment time: January 1 through March 31 of each year. Benefits then begin July 1st after the first premium is paid.

When a resident alien enrolls in Medicare Part A, unless the person specifically declines, Social Security will also enroll him or her in Part B at the same time. The 2007 premium for Part B is $93.50 per month. Some people believe that it is less expensive to enroll in just Part B, which pays for visits to the doctor, but not for hospitals. However, one hospitalization can have ruinous financial consequences. Not enrolling in Part A Medicare may not be a good financial decision.

It may sound expensive to pay the full cost for Medicare, but it's much less expensive than trying to purchase private insurance for an older non-citizen relative. By the time they come to the States many seniors have health issues and don't qualify for private insurance at any cost. There are no pre-existing medical restrictions with Medicare, so even seniors with serious health problems will qualify for permanent resident alien coverage as soon as they reach the five year residence requirement.

If you have an older relative who is a permanent resident alien and who has been in the United States for five years, or who is getting close to the five year mark, call Social Security and talk to a representative about getting him or her enrolled in Medicare. The phone number is 1 (800) 772-1213.