USCIS Issues Guidance on Making Public Charge Inadmissibility Determination

USCIS released updated guidance on how it evaluates whether immigrants applying for permanent residency will likely become a public charge—a key factor that can block green card applications. The guidance explains the agency's standards for assessing income, assets, and use of public benefits when reviewing adjustment of status cases. This affects anyone applying for a green card through family sponsorship, employment, or other pathways. The policy manual update provides clearer criteria for both applicants and immigration officers.