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COVID-19 Resources for the Undocumented or Uninsured

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The state of New Jersey is focused on ensuring that all people, regardless of immigration status or whether or not they have health insurance, are protected from the outbreak and have access to appropriate testing and treatment. You should contact a medical professional to find out when and how to seek testing and treatment.

Please read the following information carefully:

Am I eligible for the COVID-19 test?

  • Must live in New Jersey.
  • Have a cough, fever, and shortness of breath.
  • Complete the COVID-19: Check Your Symptoms section at https://self.covid19.nj.gov/ to see if you should be tested for COVID-19. This tool will help you learn what steps you can take to protect your health and that of your loved ones.

Where can I get tested?

  • Test centers from the car. Read the requirements of each test center before you leave your home. For a list of testing sites and requirements, visit: https://covid19.nj.gov/faqs/nj-information/testing-information/where-are-testing-centers-in-new-jersey. Cost: This service is free.
  • Federally Qualified Health Centers. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide free medical care and COVID-19 testing for everyone, regardless of whether they have health insurance or immigration status. Call your local FQHC in advance for information on availability and instructions. You can find a list of FQHCs at: https://www.nj.gov/health/fhs/primarycare/fqhc/. Cost: This service is free.
  • Hospitals - Charity Care Program. The COVID-19 test will be free for the uninsured eligible for charity care. You can find information about the Charity Care Program at: https://www.nj.gov/health/charitycare/. You should speak with a medical provider before going to your local hospital.

COVID-19 Resources for the Undocumented or Uninsured

Public Charge Rule:

What is Public Charge?

  • Some people applying for a green card (lawful permanent residence) or visa to enter the United States must pass the "Public Charge" test. The “Public Charge” test requires a person to demonstrate that they are not dependent on specific government programs. The new Public Charge test considers the following: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), EBT [Electronic Benefit Transfer], Food Stamps), Federal Public Housing assistance, and Section 8 (Section 8) , Medicaid (except for emergency services, children under 21, pregnant women and new mothers) and financial assistance programs (such as the Supplemental Security Income [SSI] program, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program [Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, TANF] and General Assistance). Contact your legal service provider if you have any questions.

Can I access the test despite the Public Charge Rule?

  • Yes, Immigration officials have confirmed that COVID-19 related testing, treatment and preventive care will not negatively affect a person's Public Charge analysis.

For more information on COVID-19:
Visit the New Jersey Information Center at https://covid19.nj.gov/
For general questions about COVID-19, call 211 (from 7 am to 11 pm)
For clinical questions, call 1-800-962-1253 (24 / 7).
Text NJCOVID to 898-211 to receive alerts.
Mental Health Hotline: 866-202-4357 (from 8 am to 8 pm)

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