In 2025, US Permanent Residency may face change in a standard known as utility bills (utility bills) or cause of disallowance due to dependence on the government. he Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)English acronym) has been registered with the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA, English acronym). How the use of public benefits is assessed may change.
The proposal, which was registered with OIRA on November 3, 2025, could represent a change in the scope of the rule. According to an article published by newsweekas the official text of the proposal has not been published. The exact change is unknown. Until the proposed rule is posted for comment. Adjustments are still in the preliminary stages.
but, Current rules are still in effectand applicants will need to make decisions accordingly as the regulatory process unfolds. If you are interested, please wait for the official update. Rules may evolve based on regulatory decisions and management policies.
As stated on the Uscis website, the regulations currently in force were enacted in September 2022 and began to apply in December of the same year. This canon maintained the historical interpretation of the following concepts: utility bills: Only noncitizens who are likely to rely primarily on government assistance to cover their basic living needs are considered public charges..
This definition focuses on two important areas:
When it comes to applying for a green card, considered to be highly likely utility bills May lead to denial of permanent residence. Therefore, it is important to understand which benefits are taken into account, which do not influence the decision, and which factors are evaluated in each case.
of 2022 rules establish only that Specific interests are considered relevant evidence To determine whether a person can depend on the government. Among them are:
In such a case, Assistance must focus on directly maintaining family income.
Another aspect included is; Institutionalization funded by public institutions. This refers to staying in a long-term care facility where the cost is covered. Medicaid or other government funding. This standard is limited to situations of long-term institutionalization; Does not apply to temporary or rehabilitative medical services.
Take advantage of these benefits It does not automatically determine whether an individual is considered to be responsible for public charges.. Officers must comprehensively assess the situation, including checking documentation, work history, family background, and financial stability.
The current regulations make clear that: Most social programs and supports are not part of the analysis. Among them are:
The benefits received by other members of the household do not affect the applicant’s rating. For example, if a U.S. citizen child receives public health care or food assistance; This is not considered a negative factor for those applying for a green card..
This distinction is intended to prevent eligible families from foregoing health and food services for fear of immigration implications. Many families still feel anxious, The 2022 rules clearly distinguish between impacting and non-impacting programs..
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