Saturday, March 29, 2025
Trump Administration’s New Visa Order: Health Conditions Like Obesity and Diabetes May Affect Entry to the U.S.
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has introduced stricter immigration regulations that allow American consulates to deny visas to foreign nationals with certain health conditions. According to new official guidance issued on Thursday, applicants suffering from illnesses such as obesity or diabetes may be denied entry to the United States if they are deemed likely to become a “public burden.”
The U.S. State Department has sent updated instructions to all American embassies and consulates worldwide. The guidance emphasizes that individuals with serious or chronic medical conditions could end up relying on U.S. public health services and may therefore pose a financial strain on government resources.
A report by KFF Health News in Washington stated that the directive was circulated through diplomatic cables to U.S. embassies. It specifically states that applicants who are sick or require ongoing medical treatment might be considered potential “public charges,” meaning that their presence in the country could result in significant healthcare costs.
Health Assessment Expanded Beyond Infectious Diseases
Medical evaluations have long been a standard part of the visa application process. Traditionally, these assessments focused mainly on communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, along with required vaccinations and screening for certain mental health conditions.
However, the new guidelines broaden the scope significantly. Experts believe this shift gives visa officers greater discretion in deciding whether an applicant’s health makes them likely to depend on public assistance after entering the United States.
Health Conditions Highlighted in the New Directive
The cable sent to embassies lists specific medical conditions that officers should pay special attention to. These include:
Obesity
Heart disease
Respiratory illnesses
Cancer
Diabetes
Digestive disorders
Neurological conditions
Mental health disorders
The guidance notes that permitting applicants with these conditions to enter the United States could result in medical care costing “millions of dollars” over time.
Ability to Pay for Treatment Will Be Considered
Visa officers have also been instructed to evaluate whether the applicant has the financial ability to cover medical expenses if treatment is needed in the United States. This may include checking whether the applicant has insurance, a sponsor, or personal funds.
However, Charles Wheeler, a senior attorney at the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, said that while the directive technically applies to all visa categories, it is most likely to affect those applying for permanent residency (green cards), as these cases already involve more extensive financial scrutiny.
