A rule that denies entry or green cards to those likely to depend on government aid.

The public charge rule is a U.S. immigration policy that allows the government to deny a visa or green card to someone who is likely to become primarily dependent on government assistance for living expenses such as cash welfare benefits or long-term institutional care.

However, not all benefits count. Emergency medical care, disaster relief, unemployment benefits, Medicaid for children or pregnant women, and food assistance like SNAP generally do not count against you under the current rules.