In U.S. immigration policy, the term "public charge" refers to a person who is considered a potential drain on government resources.
November 12, 2025
high
definition
General definition of the 'public charge' concept used in immigration assessments.
Public charge determinations are made by consular officers based on a 'totality of the applicant's circumstances' without a single 'bright-line' test, and the burden of proof for demonstrating non‑inadmissibility rests with the applicant.
November 06, 2025
high
policy
Standard applied when assessing whether an applicant is likely to become a public charge.