‘Public charge’ is a test for immigrants coming to the US and for some immigrants in the US who are applying for a green card for the first time. It is a test to see if they will need public benefits in the future. The government wants to make the test harder.
On August 14, the government published a final rule about 'public charge.' The final rule takes effect October 15, 2019, if it is not stopped by a court.
Public charge does not apply to all immigrants. It does not apply to LPRs (green card holders) in the US or LPRs applying for US citizenship. It does not apply to refugees, asylees, U-visa, T-visa, VAWA and others. Find out if public charge applies to you before you act!
The ‘public charge’ rule change is NOT retroactive. This means only benefits after October 15, 2019 count in public charge decisions. And the only benefits that count are the ones used by the person coming to the US or applying to adjust their status. Benefits used by family members who are LPRs or US citizens do not count in public charge decisions.
Ask a lawyer about your immigration status, what benefits you or your family can get, and if public charge applies to you. Legal Aid is confidential and free.
Mid-MN Legal Aid: (800) 292-4150 (9:00 am – 4:00 pm)
