The Trump administration is reinstating a strict “public charge” rule that could block immigrants from obtaining green cards if they have used public benefits such as food stamps, Medicaid, housing vouchers, or other government assistance programs.

The policy was officially published in the Federal Register on Thursday and will be formally published on July 20. It is scheduled to take effect on September 18.

Under the rule, applicants for permanent residency must demonstrate that they are unlikely to become a “public charge” — meaning a burden on American taxpayers. The revived regulation expands the list of benefits that can be considered when making that determination.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stated:  

“The federal government is reaffirming the requirement of self-reliance, protecting public resources and ending policies that encouraged dependency on the backs of hard-working American taxpayers.”

The agency added:  

“Under President Trump, USCIS is restoring the basic principle that immigrants must be able to support themselves.”

The “public charge” rule was first implemented in February 2020 during Trump’s first term but was reversed under the Biden administration. Its return aligns with the current administration’s aggressive approach to both illegal and legal immigration.

Critics, including immigrant rights groups, have called the policy a “wealth test” that will discourage eligible immigrants and their U.S.-born family members from accessing benefits such as healthcare and nutrition programs. Supporters argue it simply enforces long-standing federal law requiring self-sufficiency for those seeking permanent residency in the United States.