Foreigners with obesity, diabetes and other chronic illnesses may be denied a visa to enter the United States, according to a new directive from the Donald Trump administration obtained by Associated Press and released this Tuesday (11).
The measure expands the medical and financial screening applied by embassies and consulates, aiming to prevent immigrants from becoming dependent on public programs after establishing themselves in the country.
The document, issued by the Department of State, determines that visa applications undergo a more rigorous analysis, taking into account age, health, income, education and command of English.
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According to the guidance, health conditions that can lead to rejection include obesity, hypertension, metabolic diseases and mental disorders such as depression and anxiety, especially when they require high-cost treatments.
“The new policies ensure that the immigration system is not a burden on the American taxpayer,” said Tommy Pigott, a State Department spokesman.
Medical and financial assessment
The restrictions mainly apply to permanent residence visas, such as green cardand do not affect tourists or temporary travelers.
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Applicants must present detailed financial evidence, such as bank statements and asset declarations, to demonstrate that they are able to support themselves in the US without resorting to social benefits.
Consular officials were also advised to assess applicants’ English proficiency during in-person interviews and to consider previous use of public programs as a risk factor.
The initiative is part of Trump’s stricter immigration strategy, which since January has strengthened border controls, limited asylum policies and toughened naturalization requirements.
The new guidance came into effect immediately and has already been distributed to all American diplomatic representations abroad.
