Hyderabad, Nov 7 (Maxim News) The United States government is reportedly preparing to introduce stricter visa rules that could affect applicants suffering from long-term health conditions such as diabetes and obesity. According to international media reports, the US State Department has issued new guidelines to embassies and consular offices to assess applicants’ health more closely before granting visas.
Traditionally, visa applicants undergo health screening to detect contagious diseases like tuberculosis. However, the new policy expands the scope of medical evaluation to include chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, cancer, metabolic and neurological conditions, and mental health issues.
Officials are expected to consider whether admitting such applicants could impose additional healthcare costs on the US government. If authorities believe that a person’s medical condition might create financial pressure on public resources, their visa may be denied.
The guidelines further direct visa officers to verify if applicants can afford their medical treatment without government assistance. The health conditions of accompanying family members will also be reviewed. While the reports have triggered widespread concern among immigrants, the US State Department has not yet confirmed or commented on the new policy.
This comes amid several restrictive immigration measures implemented in recent years, including limits on the duration of stay for foreign students and exchange visitors, and increased visa fees for H-1B applicants. These policies have raised apprehensions among international travelers and immigrants planning to move to the United States. (Maxim News)
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