US tightens green card rules from September 18

The Trump administration has expanded the US 'public charge' rule, making it harder for green card applicants who have used government benefits like Medicaid or food stamps. The new rules take effect on September 18, 2026, rescinding the 2022 Biden-era regulations. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will now consider a wider range of means-tested public benefits, including housing assistance, food stamps, and college financial aid, when assessing whether an applicant is likely to become dependent on the government.

Applicants will be evaluated on age, health, family status, assets, education, and skills. An earlier rule only considered cash assistance for income maintenance and long-term institutional care. USCIS says the update aligns with congressional intent that immigrants be self-sufficient. Certain applicants, such as refugees, asylees, and victims of human trafficking, are exempt. If found inadmissible solely on public charge grounds, an applicant may be invited to post a financial bond. Indians, who received 7% of green cards in 2023, are among those affected.