Question: I am the non-custodial father of a child who lives outside the country in Australia. Court orders require me to add her to my health insurance as a dependent for occasions when she visits me in the U.S. (California). Can she be covered under my policy? I was told no because she is not a full-time resident of California. What can I do?

Answer If your daughter is visiting you for a few weeks, international travel insurance will do the trick. If your daughter will be living with you for an extended period of time, you can add her to your health insurance coverage. Your daughter is eligible for a special enrollment once she resides in California. The is no minimum stay required. What might have confused you otherwise is the rule that people who reside outside the US more that 6 months per year are exempt from mandated coverage and penalties.