US President Donald Trump has made a major change to the visa process, stating that foreign nationals suffering from diabetes, obesity, or heart disease may now be denied visas. Under the Trump administration's new policy, such applicants will be considered "public charges," meaning dependent on US resources, potentially preventing their entry. These guidelines have been sent to US embassies and consulates.
Medical screenings will be increased under the "public charge" policy.
According to the new guidelines, visa officers will now be required to conduct a thorough assessment of an applicant's health, age, and financial situation. This will particularly consider conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurological, and mental illnesses. The policy states that treatment for such conditions can cost "millions of dollars," so it will be determined whether the applicant has the personal resources to cover such expenses.
Experts expressed concern, saying, "Visa officers are not doctors."
Many legal experts and immigration lawyers have objected to this move. They argue that visa officers are not medical experts, yet they are being empowered to conduct critical health assessments. According to Sophia Genovese, a lawyer at Georgetown University, "For the first time, health history is being incorporated so comprehensively into visa decisions." Charles Wheeler, senior attorney at the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, said that such decisions could lead to bias and miscalculations.
Steps to Further Tighten Immigration Policy
This decision is part of the Trump administration's broader policy of restricting immigration to the United States. Previously, the government has taken steps such as restricting refugees and reducing legal immigration. Experts say this new rule will not only make immigration more difficult but also further distance the American dream for millions of potential applicants worldwide.
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