By peace Udugba
The US government has introduced new immigration rules that could deny visas to applicants with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. According to the new guidelines, visa officers will assess whether an applicant’s medical condition might create a significant financial burden on the United States.
The policy expands the “public charge” rule, which allows officials to deny visas to individuals who are likely to rely on government-funded health or social services. Applicants will be required to demonstrate that they have adequate financial resources to cover medical expenses without seeking public assistance.
The new rules apply to most visa categories, including tourists, students, work visa applicants, and green card applicants. The directive instructs consular officers to consider the health conditions of applicants’ family members, especially children or elderly dependents, and assess whether their care might hinder the applicant’s employment.
The move is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to tighten immigration rules and limit the number of immigrants entering the country. Critics argue that the policy is discriminatory and could unfairly impact individuals with manageable health conditions.
The policy change reflects a shift in US immigration philosophy, focusing on preventing immigrants from becoming a burden on the healthcare system. Countries with high rates of diabetes and obesity, such as India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and Mexico, may face stricter scrutiny under the new rules.
