Trump-era directive flags diabetes, obesity as possible grounds for US visa denial

The State Department issued the guidance through a diplomatic cable sent to U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, according to a report by KFF Health News.

The directive urges visa officers to consider whether an applicant’s medical condition might make them a potential “public charge”, a term used to describe individuals who may depend on government-funded care.

While the U.S. visa process has long included screenings for communicable diseases, vaccination status, and mental health conditions, the new guidance expands the list of health factors that could weigh against approval.

The cable reportedly reads: “You must consider an applicant’s health. Certain medical conditions- including, but not limited to, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, cancers, diabetes, metabolic diseases, neurological diseases, and mental health conditions- can require hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care.”

Visa officers have also been told to evaluate whether applicants or their dependents have the financial means to cover such medical expenses without relying on public funds.

“Does the applicant have adequate financial resources to cover the costs of such care over his entire expected lifespan without seeking public cash assistance or long-term institutionalization at government expense?” the cable adds.

Immigration advocates have criticized the move, saying it could unfairly penalize people with chronic illnesses and give consular officials excessive discretion in making medical judgments.

The guidance applies to nearly all visa applicants but is likely to be used only in cases in which people seek to permanently reside in the US, senior attorney Charles Wheeler told KFF Health News. 

The guidance also directs officers to assess the health of family members, including children and elderly dependents, to determine if their care needs could affect an applicant’s employability.

Critics warn that the change could lead to inconsistent and potentially discriminatory decisions, with chronic illnesses like diabetes or obesity- common but manageable conditions- now being used as possible grounds for visa denial.