Getting a US green card just got harder for anyone using public benefits: food stamps, housing help and college aid can now count

Covers the week of 14 September 2026 · published 24 September 2026

Updated 11 October 2026.

This article covers the week shown above. Rules may have changed since then, so check the linked source below before applying, paying or relying on a deadline.

A final rule that removes the 2022 public charge regulations took effect on 18 September 2026. From that date officers may weigh any means-tested public benefit, such as food stamps, housing help or college financial aid, case by case. Benefits received before that date count only if they were cash aid for income support or long-term care at government expense.

Effective from 18 September 2026.

Official source: USCIS Issues Guidance on Making Public Charge Inadmissibility Determination | USCIS

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