Non-Citizen Eligibility
You may be able to get SNAP if you are a legal immigrant. Most lawful permanent residents (green card holders) must wait 5 years before getting SNAP. There is no wait for children under 18, some people age 60, disabled people, or refugees and asylees. Some lawful permanent residents can get SNAP if they have enough work history or if they have a military connection.
If you are not eligible due to your immigration status, your legal immigrant or citizen children may qualify. Your SNAP worker should not ask you to provide immigration information about yourself when you apply for your legal immigrant or citizen children. Noncitizens who are in the U.S. temporarily, such as students, are not eligible.
Contact your local SNAP office to discuss your situation.
If I get SNAP, will I be a "public charge"?
You and your family can apply for and get SNAP without hurting your chances of becoming U.S. citizens.
If you have any questions, discuss your situation with your SNAP office.
