DHS Public Charge Rule Application for Green Card Eligibility in 2026

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continues to evaluate the use of public benefits like SNAP and Medicaid under the 'public charge' rule for permanent residency applicants. While specific usage does not automatically disqualify applicants, the DHS assesses the totality of circumstances to determine if an individual is likely to become primarily dependent on the government. Uncertainty remains regarding how specific state-level benefit expansions interact with federal immigration adjudication standards.