Obesity, Cancer, or Diabetes? No U.S. Visa for You

Having diabetes, cancer, or even obesity could now stand between visa applicants and entry into the United States. Under new guidelines rolled out by the Trump administration, immigration officers have been instructed to consider common health conditions when deciding who gets in.

State Department officials defended the move, saying it protects Americans from financial burdens. “It’s no secret the Trump Administration is putting the interests of the American people first. This includes enforcing policies that ensure our immigration system is not a burden on the American taxpayer,” spokesperson Tommy Pigott said.

While officials say it protects taxpayers, critics warn it could unfairly block vulnerable applicants. Sarah Krieger of the National Immigration Law Centre called it “an unusual and concerning move” that risks confusion among officers and harm to those otherwise eligible. “I expect it will harm the most vulnerable people, including those who may otherwise be eligible to come to the United States,” she said.

The directive follows a February order requiring agencies to ensure “no taxpayer-funded benefits go to unqualified aliens.”