Beginning yesterday, February 24, 2020, US consular officers worldwide will also scrutinize petitions and applications using President Trump's Public Charge rule, which evaluates whether a foreign national is likely to become a public charge and rely upon public benefits after entering the US. As a result, immigrant visa applicants will now need to submit Form DS-5540, Public Charge Questionnaire as part of their applications submitted to the consulates.
The DS-5540 requires applicants to submit additional documentation regarding their financial and health records, including evidence of their health insurance coverage in the US and prior US tax returns, if available. After reviewing an applicant's DS-5540, consular officers have authority to request additional documentation if needed to fully evaluate an applicant's financial status.
For more information regarding the application of the new Public Charge rule, please contact Ayla Adomat, Esq. at ayla@adomatimmigration.com