The United States has officially confirmed stricter visa rules for people with obesity and diabetes.

Diabetes and obesity may cause US visa denial

The White House administration has officially confirmed the tightening of visa policies for foreign citizens suffering from certain chronic diseases. The new rules affect applicants with diabetes, obesity, and a number of other serious illnesses.

As White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly explained, this measure is based on a long-existing rule. For a hundred years, the US State Department has had the authority to deny visas to those who could become a financial burden on American taxpayers, for example by using the government-run health care system.

“President Trump’s administration is finally fully implementing this policy,” Kelly said. She was supported by a State Department representative, who noted that the current administration prioritizes the interests of US citizens and seeks to avoid additional costs to the budget.

Earlier, media reported that new recommendations had been sent to consular services. They contain a list of diseases that must be taken into account when deciding whether to issue a visa, including cardiovascular, respiratory and cancer diseases. Consular officials are now required to independently assess the potential medical costs associated with each applicant. According to some, this is part of a broader strategy to limit immigration.

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