New rules can deny green cards for immigrants using public benefits

| Published: Tuesday, August 13, 2019, 8:51 [IST]

Washington, Aug 13: The Trump administration on Monday said that those seeking public benefits like food stamp or housing assistance could be denied a Green Card, a step below the American citizenship.

The new rule was issued by the Department of Homeland Security specifying that green cards -- legal permanent residency would be denied if those seeking it cannot convince the consular officer that they will never use programs that the US government doles out for its citizens.

It determines that whether an alien is applying for admission or adjustment of status is inadmissible to the country because he or she is likely at any time to become a public charge for availing public assistance schemes like food stamp, Medicaid or housing assistance.