New public charge rule begins for certain green card applicants

A new federal public charge rule took effect Sept. 18, changing how the Department of Homeland Security evaluates whether certain immigrants seeking permanent residency could become a public charge. The policy applies to qualifying green card applications submitted on or after that date, including cases filed electronically, postmarked, or involving an admission request on or after Sept. 18, 2026.

Under the updated guidance, immigration officials can consider a broader range of factors when deciding whether an applicant is likely to depend on public assistance. The rule affects people seeking permanent residency through several immigrant visa categories and certain other applicants subject to the public charge ground of inadmissibility.

The change marks a significant shift in how green card cases are reviewed, expanding the scope of review for applications filed after the effective date. Applications submitted before Sept. 18 remain under the earlier standard, while new filings fall under the updated policy.

Source: NBC Palm Springs — Published: 2026-09-19T01:30:00.000Z

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Editorial note: This content was researched and generated on 2026-09-25. Facts and pricing are verified at time of writing and subject to change.