Which of the following is NOT a requirement to qualify for Medicare benefits irrespective of age?

To qualify for Medicare benefits, certain criteria must be met depending on the individual's specific circumstances. Among these criteria, being a U.S. citizen is not mandatory; residents who are legally living in the U.S. may also qualify for Medicare, so long as they meet other eligibility requirements. This aspect makes being a U.S. citizen an incorrect choice in this context.

Entitlement to Social Security disability income for two years is a requirement for individuals under age 65 who are applying for Medicare due to a disability. Similarly, having chronic kidney disease or End Stage Renal Disease also qualifies individuals for Medicare coverage, regardless of their age. Additionally, working while receiving benefits does not disqualify anyone from accessing Medicare; it can continue regardless of employment status. Thus, these other criteria serve specific eligibility functions, while citizenship is a broader category that does not serve as a barrier for those legally in the United States.