The United States has rolled out new visa screening guidelines requiring officers to assess applicants’ long-term health risks and financial ability to manage potential medical expenses.
The policy directs visa officers to consider whether individuals can afford medical treatment during their stay, raising concerns that people with chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease may face higher chances of rejection.
The revised rules apply to all visa categories but are expected to have a greater impact on those seeking permanent residency. Officials will also evaluate the health and financial dependency of accompanying family members, including children, elderly dependents, and those with disabilities or chronic illnesses that could limit the main applicant’s ability to work.
Immigrant rights advocates have criticized the rules, warning that it could unfairly target applicants with existing medical conditions and deepen discrimination within the visa approval process.
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