The Trump administration is considering new visa policies that could result in the denial of visas to immigrants with diabetes or obesity. This move follows the controversial increase in H-1B visa fees to $100,000, with the administration now focusing on health-related grounds for visa rejection.

According to a guidance memo, US visa officers are instructed to consider a range of health conditions, including cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, metabolic, and mental health issues when assessing visa applicants.

“Officers are also encouraged to factor in obesity, citing its link to conditions like asthma, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure, to determine whether a visa applicant could become a public charge,” the memo states. It also outlines the need for applicants to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their long-term medical care, without relying on government support. The guideline emphasizes evaluating whether the applicant can manage healthcare costs “over their expected lifespan” independently.

This move is part of broader immigration reforms, as the administration has also increased scrutiny of H-1B visa holders and non-immigrant workers. The Department of Labor has launched 175 investigations into potential H-1B visa abuses, while also ending automatic work permit extensions for foreign workers. These changes are expected to have a significant impact on Indian applicants, in particular.