Determinations will include an assessment of applicants’ ability to support themselves.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an update to its USCIS Policy Manual that changes what is reviewed for immigrants seeking permanent residency or green cards in the U.S. The new rule will consider a variety of factors, including age, health, family status, finances, and educational background, to determine whether applicants are likely to contribute economically to the U.S. or will rely on public aid. The U.S. will deny the applications when individuals appear unable to support themselves.
The agency stated, “To make public charge inadmissibility determinations, USCIS officers will consider the five statutory factors and any other factor relevant to assessing the alien’s likelihood at any time of becoming a public charge, including the alien’s receipt of means-tested public benefits, such as cash assistance for income maintenance, housing assistance, food stamps, financial aid for college, or any other similar benefit.”
Certain applicants will be exempt from the new rule, including refugees and asylees, Afghan and Iraqi nationals who work with or for the U.S. government, certain Cuban and Haitian nationals, special immigrant juveniles, victims of human trafficking or other qualifying criminal activity, and applicants for Temporary Protected Status. The updated rule is scheduled to take effect September 18.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Director Joseph Edlow as he implements the updated guidance for reviews of applicants for permanent residency.
- For Secretary Mullin to seek God’s guidance as he heads the Department of Homeland Security.
- For USCIS officials as they work to comply with federal immigration laws.
Sources: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, MSN, Townhall
