Trump administration may deny US visas to foreigners with diabetes, obesity

The Trump administration has introduced a new requirement for granting visas that could reject foreign nationals with certain health conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and other chronic illnesses.

As reported by KFF Health News, the White House justified the move by arguing that people with such conditions could become dependent on public assistance, potentially burdening US resources.

The guidance, detailed in a State Department cable sent to embassies and consulates, instructs visa officers to take applicants’ medical status into account. It lists conditions including cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancers, diabetes, metabolic and neurological disorders, and mental health issues, noting that these may involve treatment costs reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.

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The cable also advises officers to evaluate cases involving obesity, citing its potential to cause related complications such as asthma, sleep apnea, and hypertension—each requiring extensive and costly care.

Applicants are to be assessed on their ability to finance medical treatment independently, without relying on government aid or long-term institutional care.

The directive further requires officers to factor in the health of accompanying family members, including dependents with disabilities or chronic illnesses that might affect the applicant’s ability to work.