Both U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of State (DOS) implemented a new rule, effective February 24, 2020, to decide who will be considered a “Public Charge” (someone that is likely to need financial assistance from the government).

How Does This Impact Me?

If you are seeking to remain or come to the United States either temporarily or permanently and you are not in one of the exempt categories below, the rule will apply to you if you request an immigration benefit on or after February 24, 2020.  You will need to provide additional information and documents to USCIS as part of your application. This includes information about your health, family, education, ability to work, income, assets, liabilities, receipt of any public benefits, and an Affidavit of Support from a financial sponsor. Otherwise you may be found inadmissible.

If you are found to be inadmissible as a Public Charge, you may be able to pay a bond and still adjust, change or extend your status.

What Benefits Are Problems for Public Charge?

• Cash Assistance for Income Maintenance (includes TANF, SSI, and federal, state, and local assistance programs)
• SNAP or Food Stamps
• Medicaid (with exceptions listed below)
• Housing Assistance (Public Housing or Section 8 Housing Vouchers and Rental Assistance)

What Benefits May My Family and I Still Receive?

Any benefits not on the above list are NOT considered as public benefits under the public charge rule, such as:

• Benefits received by the immigrant’s family members
• Benefits received by U.S. Armed Forces Service Members
• Emergency medical assistance
• Medicaid received by (1) children under 21; (2) during pregnancy or within 60 days of pregnancy; or (3) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Heath Insurance under the Affordable Care Act
• Social Security and Medicare
• WIC
• CHIP
• Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
• Pell grants and student loans
• Worker’s Compensation or Unemployment Benefits
• Tax-related cash benefits

However, not everyone is subject to the public charge rule. The most common exceptions are the following:

• Asylees and Refugees
• Applicants for U or T Nonimmigrant Status
• VAWA Self-Petitioners
• Special Immigrant Juveniles
• Applicants seeking Temporary Protected Status
• Applicants under the Cuban Adjustment Act
• U.S. citizens, including naturalized citizens
• Lawful Permanent Residents (note: if you plan to be abroad for more than 180 days, please talk to your attorney)