US issues details of new Green Card rules coming into effect from September 18
USCIS has announced new, stricter 'public charge' rules for Green Card applicants, effective September 18, 2026. The updated policy will evaluate applicants based on a broader range of factors, including financial resources and the receipt of government benefits, to ensure immigrant self-sufficiency.
Why it matters
This policy change significantly impacts the criteria for legal immigration to the U.S. and reflects a shift toward prioritizing applicants who are less likely to rely on public assistance.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued extensive new policy guidance on how it will apply the "public charge" ground of inadmissibility when reviewing Green Card applications. USCIS has announced that new Green Card rules will take effect on September 18, 2026. 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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