New York City advises immigrants on new federal public charge rule

The New York City Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) has advised immigrants not to relinquish any public benefits without first consulting a trusted legal service provider. This recommendation follows the implementation of a new federal rule regarding “public charge” determinations, which expands the types of public benefits that immigration authorities may consider when evaluating applications for permanent residency or specific visas.

To assist residents, the city offers free and confidential immigration legal assistance in various languages through the MOIA legal aid hotline and Legal Support Centers located in community centers, public health centers, schools, and libraries.