US immigration authorities rescind public charge rule and face application backlogs

The US Department of Homeland Security has announced a policy reversal, rescinding the 2022 public charge regulation. Under the previous framework, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers applied a uniform financial-dependency test to Green Card applicants. Moving forward, officers will instead evaluate the specific personal and financial circumstances of each applicant on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants must also note a change in documentation requirements. Starting 18 September 2026, USCIS will require the use of a revised Form I-485 for those applying for permanent residence or adjusting immigration status; older versions of the form will be rejected if submitted or postmarked on or after that date.

Separately, USCIS data indicates a significant increase in the citizenship application backlog. Pending naturalization applications (Form N-400) rose to 813,453 in August, up from 744,412 in June. The average processing time has reached 12.7 months. In August, the agency approved 15,349 applications, while receiving 54,492 new ones, reflecting a trend where new filings significantly outpace approvals.