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USCIS Enforces Public-Charge Rules for Indian Green Cards 2026

By Drooid · Sep 18, 2026, 4:18 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

USCIS will enforce new public-charge rules for Indian green-card applicants on September 18, 2026.
The guidance expands financial scrutiny for family- and employment-based applicants, assessing age, health, assets, education.
Cash or housing assistance received after September 18 will count against applicants in the public-charge test.
23 states, D.C. and 6 localities sued Trump administration to block rule before September 18.
Refugees, asylees, special-immigrant juveniles, VAWA self-petitioners, trafficking victims and Form I-864 sponsors are exempt.

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Story summary

USCIS will enforce new public-charge rules for Indian green-card applicants on September 18, 2026.
The guidance expands financial scrutiny for family- and employment-based applicants, assessing age, health, assets, education.
Cash or housing assistance received after September 18 will count against applicants in the public-charge test.
23 states, D.C. and 6 localities sued Trump administration to block rule before September 18.
Refugees, asylees, special-immigrant juveniles, VAWA self-petitioners, trafficking victims and Form I-864 sponsors are exempt.