US tightens visa rules over health, financial concerns
Immigrants hoping to enter the US must already complete a medical exam conducted by a physician approved by the US Embassy.
Washington: A new directive issued by President Donald Trump’s administration could make it harder for foreigners to visit or live in the United States if they have certain health conditions or lack the financial means to support themselves.
According to a cable from the State Department obtained by The Associated Press, US embassies and consulates worldwide have been instructed to closely vet visa applicants to ensure they won’t become a financial burden on the government. The move signals yet another tightening of America’s immigration system under Trump’s renewed term, as officials focus on reducing the number of people who might rely on public assistance once inside the country.
The guidance emphasizes the concept of “public charge” — a long-standing rule in US immigration law that allows authorities to deny entry or permanent residency to individuals deemed likely to depend on government resources, such as cash aid, food stamps, or housing support. While this rule has existed for decades, Trump’s first term saw a much broader interpretation, expanding the range of benefits that could count against an applicant. The latest directive appears to extend that approach even further.
“The Trump administration is trying to return to its earlier efforts to restrict who can come to or stay in the country under the public charge rule.”
Under the new guidance, visa applicants will face more scrutiny regarding both their health and finances. Officials are instructed to consider whether a person’s medical history, ongoing treatment needs, or economic situation might make them dependent on government-funded healthcare or assistance in the future. Experts say the directive could make it especially difficult for older adults, people with limited financial means, or those living with chronic health conditions to obtain US visas.
Immigrants seeking to enter the US already undergo a thorough medical examination by a doctor approved by the US Embassy. These exams include screenings for communicable diseases like tuberculosis and an assessment of the applicant’s physical and mental health. Applicants must also disclose any history of substance use, mental health conditions, or violent behavior, and they are required to be vaccinated against several diseases before entering the country.
However, the new rule goes much further by listing several conditions that could be used to deny a visa. According to the State Department cable, chronic illnesses, obesity, high blood pressure, cardiovascular or metabolic diseases, neurological disorders, and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety could all be factors in a visa denial. The guidance warns that individuals with illnesses requiring “hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care” might be deemed ineligible to enter.
Critics argue that the policy could unfairly target people from poorer nations, where access to healthcare and preventive treatment is limited, making some applicants more likely to have undiagnosed or untreated conditions. Immigration advocates also warn that this move risks discriminating against individuals with disabilities or mental health issues.
Since returning to office in January, Trump has made immigration control one of his central policy priorities. His administration has introduced a series of measures to limit who can enter the US and to tighten the rules for those already living there legally. Experts believe this new directive could significantly reduce both immigrant and non-immigrant visa approvals, reshaping the demographic of who gets to visit or settle in America.
While supporters of the policy argue it protects US taxpayers from bearing the cost of healthcare and welfare programs for non-citizens, critics say it undermines the nation’s image as a land of opportunity — where people have historically come seeking a better life regardless of their background or health.
For many aspiring immigrants, the rule adds yet another layer of uncertainty to an already complex process, leaving them wondering if their dreams of coming to America will ever come true.