Immigration law blog

Public Charge (Frequently Asked Questions and TV Interview)

The U.S. government has created new legal rules that govern an issue called “public charge” inadmissibility. The new rules greatly increase the amount of scrutiny that is applied on immigration applications to receive a Green card through a family member.

For a detailed summary of the new rules, please visit https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/08/14/2019-17142/inadmissibility-on-public-charge-grounds

What is “public charge” inadmissibility?

Public charge refers to the legal requirement in U.S. immigration law that an immigrant shows the ability to be self–sufficient. It is the same part of immigration law that will also require you to file a Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.

When do the new rules take effect?

The new rules were announced on August 15, 2019. The rules apply to applications filed after February 24, 2020.

 Are we sure that these rules will go into effect?

Yes.

Who does the rule apply to?

The new rules apply to those filing a Form I-485 Adjustment of Status in the United States based on a family relationship. They do not apply to consular cases (cases processing in another country).

How do the new rules change my case?

Once the rules take effect, adjustment of status applications will need to file a new Form I-944, Declaration of Self – Sufficiency. That form documents the applicant’s work history, financial circumstances, credit score, and other related factors. The form will greatly increase the time required both from you and from your lawyers to prepare your case.

Can I find out more?

Please talk to an immigration lawyer and bring the documentation about whatever government benefit or service you have received or are receiving in order to see if your case will be affected. 


MY INTERVIEW ON THE PUBLIC CHARGE


We are dedicated to providing the right solutions to meet our clients’ immigration needs. Our entire staff is fluent in Spanish.

📱Call today to set-up a consultation 206-838-7628

Las abogadas de inmigración y el personal profesional de L.I.H. Law están dedicados a proveer la solución correcta para cumplir con las necesidades de inmigración de nuestros clientes. Nuestro personal entero es fluente en español.

Lesley Irizarry-Hougan

Lesley has been practicing law since July, 2005. She has significant experience in representing clients in Immigration Court, both detained and non-detained cases; appeals from immigration judge decisions, both at the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals; and the Board of Immigration Appeals. Lesley is actively involved in her community, regularly volunteering at the Latina/o Bar Association Legal Clinic and the King County Bar Association Neighborhood Legal Clinic. Lesley Irizarry-Hougan ha estado practicando exclusivamente leyes de inmigración desde Julio del 2005. Ella tiene experiencia significante representando clientes en la Corte de Inmigración; apelando las decisiones del juez de inmigración, ambos a la Corte de Apelaciones de Estados Unidos para el Noveno Circuito y la Corte de Distrito de Estados Unidos para el Oeste de Washington. Lesley también se especializa en aplicaciones afirmativas, incluyendo aplicaciones para la tarjeta verde (Mica), asilo, NACARA, y aplicaciones de ciudadanía archivado en los Estados Unidos y Servicios de Inmigración. Lesley también hace certificaciones de trabajo, incluyendo aplicaciones de cocineros especializados. Ella habla español nativo.

L.I.H. Law, P.S., Immigration Lawyer, Seattle, WA