If you are planning to apply for a US Green Card, there is an important immigration rule change you need to know about.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued updated guidance on how immigration officers will assess whether certain applicants could become a “public charge.”
The new guidance will take effect on September 18, 2026.
New Rules Will Apply to Form I-485 Applications
The revised guidance will apply to adjustment of status applications (Form I-485) filed on or after September 18.
USCIS will also stop accepting older versions of the form after the new requirements take effect.
Under the updated approach, immigration officers will carry out a broader assessment of an applicant’s circumstances when considering the public charge requirement.
What Factors Will USCIS Consider?
Officials may look at several aspects of an applicant’s personal and financial situation.
These include:
Age
Health
Family circumstances
Assets and financial resources
Education
Skills
This means applicants may need to pay close attention to their overall circumstances when preparing their Green Card application.
Public Benefits May Also Be Considered
The updated guidance also clarifies that the receipt of certain means-tested public benefits may be considered as part of the public charge assessment.
USCIS may also take into account certain previous receipt of cash assistance and long-term institutionalisation.
The changes are therefore important for people planning to file Form I-485 from September 18, 2026, as their circumstances and benefit history may form part of the assessment.
