DHS Rescinds 2022 Public Charge Regulation
WASHINGTON:- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has rescinded the 2022 rule regarding ‘public charge’ determinations. According to the DHS, immigrants in the United States are urged to be self-sufficient and not rely on government benefits.
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), an individual applying for a visa, admission, or a change of status is deemed inadmissible to the United States if they are likely to become a “public charge” (i.e., a person dependent on government assistance) at any time in the future.
The now-rescinded rule had limited the scope of public benefits that the DHS could consider. With this DHS rule, USCIS has gained the authority to evaluate and screen each applicant.
USCIS spokesperson Zach Cahler stated, “The Trump administration is upholding the rule of law while protecting American taxpayers from having to bear the financial burden for foreigners who may become dependent on public benefits.”
According to USCIS, this rule will come into effect on September 18, 2026.
