No Borders NewsUSCIS says it is updating its Policy Manual to explain how the agency will make “public charge” inadmissibility decisions for people applying for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident (LPR) status.
USCIS points to a DHS final rule announced July 16, 2026 that rescinds the 2022 “public charge” regulations. That final rule was published in the Federal Register on July 20, 2026, and is set to take effect on Sept. 18, 2026. USCIS says its updated guidance is meant to align with congressional intent that people in the U.S. be self-sufficient rather than dependent on taxpayer-funded benefits.
The updated guidance explains which categories of applicants are subject to the public charge ground and which categories are exempt. USCIS also describes the key concepts it will use, the factors it will consider, and what evidence it may review.
USCIS also discusses the “public charge bonds” process, which is one way some applicants may address public charge concerns during the adjustment process.
For the official USCIS alert and the underlying policy details, see the USCIS newsroom page linked below.