The United States government has introduced new immigration guidelines that could deny visas and green cards to foreign nationals living with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other long-term illnesses.
The directive, issued under President Donald Trump’s administration, expands the interpretation of a “public charge”, a term in U.S. immigration law referring to individuals likely to become financially dependent on government assistance.
According to a State Department cable circulated to U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, visa officers are now required to identify applicants whose health conditions could lead to “hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care.”
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The document cites cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancers, metabolic and neurological disorders, and certain mental health conditions as potential grounds for visa denial. It also flags obesity as a possible risk factor, noting its link to costly complications such as asthma, sleep apnoea, and hypertension.
Previously, U.S. visa medical examinations focused mainly on communicable diseases like tuberculosis. However, this policy marks a significant shift, making chronic illnesses a central factor in immigration eligibility assessments.
The U.S.-based Murthy Law Firm described the policy as an “unprecedented linkage between health status and admissibility,” suggesting it ties a person’s medical history to their perceived economic worth.
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It remains uncertain whether the rules will also apply to nonimmigrant visa categories, including tourist (B1/B2) or student (F1) visas.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
