Trump Administration Proposes New Public Charge Rule: What Green Card Applicants Need to Know
On November 18, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a proposal that would dramatically change how the government applies the public charge rule to immigrants seeking lawful permanent residence. If finalized, this change would roll back the 2022 Biden-era policy and give immigration officers far broader authority to deny green card applications based on financial concerns.
What the new public charge proposal would do
The proposed rule would:
Allow USCIS officers to consider a much wider range of public benefits, including food assistance, healthcare programs, and state/local support.
Restore a broad “totality of the circumstances” test, letting officers weigh factors like age, health, income, education, family size, and employment prospects.
Rely heavily on future agency guidance, which may limit transparency and lead to inconsistent decision-making.
For immigrants and their families, these changes mean the public charge analysis may become more unpredictable and more subjective.
How this could affect immigrant families
Immigrant advocates warn that the proposal could create a significant “chilling effect.” Even people who are legally eligible for benefits may avoid programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or other essential services due to fear that using them might affect a future green card application.
Because officers would have broader discretion, applicants could see greater variation in how similar cases are decided.
Practical steps for green card applicants
If you are applying for adjustment of status — or planning to — here are steps to protect your case:
1. Review your household’s benefit use
Past or current benefit usage in the household may be evaluated in the overall public charge assessment.
2. Strengthen your financial evidence
Provide proof of steady income, savings, employment history, job offers, and health insurance if available.
3. Ensure a strong affidavit of support
Sponsors should gather clear, up-to-date financial records to show they can meet support obligations.
4. Get legal advice before using benefits
Discuss the risks with an immigration attorney before applying for or renewing public benefits.
Bottom line
This new proposal is not final, but it signals a major shift toward a stricter public charge policy. Preparing early can help protect your immigration options and reduce the risk of delays or denials.
If you’re worried about how the proposed public charge rule could affect your green card application, contact our office today at (405) 616-5999. We can review your case, explain your options, and help you prepare the strongest application possible.