Over 400,000 people who apply for a green card every year could face even more stringent measures once the new rules take effect.
A report from 10news.com on Monday revealed that the Trump administration wants applicants who may end up seeking ‘assistance’ blocked from getting a green card.
The American Government wants people who ‘can stand on their own two feet’ and not eventually need welfare, food stamps or medical aid.
The new rules are reportedly to take effect on October 15. Before, applicants were required to provide information on health, age, education and finances.
However, a sponsor, who was either already a citizen or had a green card, could vouch for an applicant’s financial status.
According to Ken Cuccinelli, acting director of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the new rule will safe-guard taxpaying Americans.
Critics however opine that the new move is just to make the application process more difficult and discourage prospective applicants.
Though different states are challenging the new move in court, 10news.com says reversing the rules may take years.
Meanwhile, application for the Diversity Visa Lottery Program 2021 program opened on October 2 and will continue until November 5, this year.
According to the U.S. Department of State website, DV-2021 entrants should keep their confirmation number until at least September 30, 2021.
“DV-2021 entrants may enter their confirmation information through the link (on the official website) starting at noon (EDT) on May 5, 2020,” a statement on the website reads.
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