The Trump administration is expanding the "public charge" test, allowing immigration officers to consider whether applicants have used taxpayer-funded benefits such as Medicaid, food stamps, and housing assistance when determining eligibility for permanent legal status. The Department of Homeland Security is rescinding a 2022 Biden-era regulation that narrowed the scope of these benefits.

This change restores broader discretion to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers, enabling case-by-case reviews that can include an applicant's age, health, assets, and receipt of means-tested public benefits. USCIS Director Joseph B. Edlow stated the move reaffirms self-reliance and protects public resources. The rule applies to noncitizens applying to adjust their status within the U.S. and those seeking admission, with exemptions for categories like refugees and asylees.

The Department of Homeland Security estimated that roughly 588,000 adjustment-of-status applicants annually could be subject to this review. A significant "chilling effect" is also anticipated, potentially leading around 950,000 people in immigrant households to forgo public benefits. The rule is expected to become effective in September, with updated forms to follow.