New Green Card rules from September 18: Full list of categories affected
USCIS is implementing stricter 'public charge' rules for Green Card applicants starting September 18, 2026, expanding the list of government benefits that can lead to inadmissibility. The new guidance applies to all Form I-485 applications filed on or after the effective date.
Why it matters
This policy change significantly impacts immigration eligibility and financial scrutiny for individuals seeking permanent residency in the US.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced that starting September 18, it will implement new guidance on the public charge inadmissibility determination. The rules expand financial scrutiny for most family and employment-based Green Card applicants, requiring officers to assess whether individuals are likely to rely on government assistance. The updated guidance applies to all adjustment of status applications (Form I‑485) submitted on or after this date. Older versions of the form will no longer be accepted. Under the new rules, USCIS officers will conduct a stricter public charge test. Applicants will be evaluated on age, health, family status, assets, financial resources, education, and skills.
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