New guidelines target obesity, diabetes, mental illnesses, citing potential burden on U.S. resources
The Donald Trump U.S. administration has decided to restrict the issuance of residence visas to individuals with obesity, diabetes, mental illnesses, and other conditions.
According to foreign media including Fox News, on the 6th, local time, the U.S. Department of State sent a diplomatic cable containing new visa screening guidelines to overseas missions. The guidelines state that during visa screening, the health status and financial circumstances of applicants who could become a ‘public charge’ depleting U.S. resources must be considered.
Under the new guidelines, visa officers must assess whether applicants have the financial resources to cover medical expenses throughout their expected lifespan without government assistance, and evaluate the health status of their family members, including children and elderly parents.
Visa applicants must already undergo health screenings by doctors approved by U.S. embassies, disclose their mental health or history of drug and alcohol addiction, and receive vaccinations.
Notably, the State Department specified, “Obesity can cause asthma, sleep apnea, and hypertension,” and stated that this should be grounds for denying entry when assessing the likelihood of becoming a public charge.
Regarding this, immigration attorney Sofia Genovese stated, “The new guidelines have been significantly strengthened by considering chronic illnesses,” and added, “If implemented immediately, numerous issues are expected to arise during consular interviews.”
