US Green Card Rules Expand Public Charge Criteria from September 18
· World · Times of India, timesofindia.indiatimes, Indian Express
US Citizenship and Immigration Services will enforce a stricter public charge test on Green Card applications starting September 18, 2026. The new guidance, based on a July 20 Federal Register final rule, replaces the 2022 standard that considered only cash assistance and long‑term institutionalization. From September 18 onward, any means‑tested public benefits – including housing assistance, food stamps and college aid – will be considered for Form I‑485 applicants. USCIS will evaluate applicants on age, health, family status, assets, financial resources, education and skills, alongside the statutory factors. The change aims to align immigration policy with congressional intent that immigrants be self‑sufficient.
Why it matters
Indian diaspora members applying for permanent residency must prepare for a more rigorous review of their public benefit history, potentially affecting approvals and timelines.
Read the original report — Times of India
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