Is health insurance mandatory in California?

Yes. California has an "individual mandate." If you go without coverage, you will pay a penalty tax when you file your annual return.

How much is car insurance for a new immigrant?

Expect to pay $150 to $300 per month. You are considered high-risk until you get a US license.

Will H-1B visa changes Trump might pass affect my employer insurance?

Possibly. If Trump H-1B restrictions increase costs for companies, they may shift more of the health premium cost onto employees.

Can I use my foreign license to get insured?

Yes, companies like Geico and Progressive allow it, but the rates are higher. You must get a CA license within 10 days of becoming a resident.

Does my H-1B specialty occupation visa 2025 guarantee insurance?

No visa guarantees insurance, but the specialty occupation visa 2025 jobs usually come with robust benefits packages.

What is the H-1B cap 2025 and does it impact insurance?

The H-1B cap 2025 limits the number of workers, making the jobs that *do* get filled highly competitive—often leading to better insurance perks to attract talent.

HMO vs. PPO: Which is better?

PPO offers freedom (no referrals needed). HMO is cheaper but restricts you to a specific network and primary doctor.

Can I drive with the state minimum coverage?

Legally, yes. Financially, it's suicide. $5,000 for property damage is insufficient in a state full of luxury cars.

What happens if I lose my job and H-1B status?

You can typically continue your health coverage via COBRA for a limited time, but you have to pay the full premium yourself.

How do I lower my insurance costs?

Bundle your auto and renters insurance. Also, satisfy H-1B requirements 2025 quickly to settle down—insurers like stability and US driving history.

California Insurance Survival Guide 2025: Health, Auto & The H-1B Visa Reality

Alex Drill

Author

November 23, 2025

Navigate California insurance (Auto/Health) amid H-1B visa 2025 changes. Learn how Trump restrictions & the $100k fee impact your coverage costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this topic.

Sources

References and sources used in this article.

Covered California - Official Marketplacehttps://www.coveredca.com

California DMV - Insurance Requirementshttps://www.dmv.ca.gov

California Department of Insurancehttps://www.insurance.ca.gov

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is health insurance mandatory in California?

How much is car insurance for a new immigrant?

Will H-1B visa changes Trump might pass affect my employer insurance?

Can I use my foreign license to get insured?

Does my H-1B specialty occupation visa 2025 guarantee insurance?

What is the H-1B cap 2025 and does it impact insurance?

HMO vs. PPO: Which is better?

Can I drive with the state minimum coverage?

What happens if I lose my job and H-1B status?

How do I lower my insurance costs?

Sources

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Banking in California 2025: The Financial Guide for H-1B Workers & Newcomers Amid Trump Restrictions