US to revive rule of no green cards for those who use public benefits

The Trump administration is reviving a public charge rule that could deny green cards to immigrants who use public benefits such as food stamps, Medicaid, and housing vouchers.

The policy appeared in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026, and will be formally published on July 20.

The rule was originally implemented in February 2020 under President Trump to limit legal immigration, but was reversed under President Biden.

Applicants for green cards must show they would not be a burden on the country or become a 'public charge' under this policy.

The revival comes as the Trump administration seeks to curb both illegal and legal immigration amid rising healthcare and food costs.