On Monday, February 24, 2020, the U.S. Department of State will implement new policies related to the Trump Administration’s public charge rule. The new policy is scheduled to go into effect worldwide on February 24, 2020.
Applicants for immigrant visas will now be required to complete an additional form, called the DS-5540.
The U.S. Department of State has also amended the sections of the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) relating to the public charge ground of inadmissibility.
The new form asks for the following information regarding the immigrant visa applicant:
- Whether you currently have health insurance in the United States
- Whether you will be covered by health insurance in the United States within 30 days of your entry to the United States with your immigrant visa
- Members of your household and whether they are employed
- Information regarding your federal tax returns within the last 3 years
- Your current income
- Whether you have a job waiting for you in the United States, the name of the employer, and the proposed yearly income
- Your assets
- Your debts
- Public benefits you have received on or after February 24, 2020
- Your education level
- Your employment skills
There is at least one lawsuit challenging the U.S. Department of State’s implementation of the public charge rule. For now, it is required for immigrant visa applicants.
