An individual qualifies as a U.S. citizen if the person was born in the 50 states and District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Northern Mariana Islands. Nationals from American Samoa or Swain's Island are regarded as U.S. citizens for purposes of Medicaid eligibility. Children of a U.S. citizen who are born outside the U.S., may automatically be eligible for a Certificate of Citizenship. In order to receive the certificate, an INS Form N-600 needs to be filed.

Medicaid must be provided to eligible citizens or nationals of the United States.