WASHINGTON: The United States government has introduced a new and highly controversial visa policy that bars entry to foreign nationals diagnosed with obesity or diabetes, citing public health concerns and the need to protect “national interests.”
According to an official circular issued by the U.S. Department of State to embassies and consulates worldwide, applications from individuals suffering from these conditions will now be automatically denied.
The government claims the move is intended to minimize health-related risks and reduce potential medical burdens on the U.S. healthcare system. However, immigration experts and human rights organizations have condemned the decision, calling it discriminatory and a violation of fundamental humanitarian principles.
Observers have compared the policy to the restrictive immigration measures seen during the Trump administration, which imposed bans on certain refugees and introduced stricter entry conditions.
Critics warn that the new rule could particularly affect applicants from developing countries where obesity and diabetes rates are rising due to limited access to healthcare.
So far, U.S. officials have not clarified when the policy will take effect or whether there will be any exemptions for individuals with controlled medical conditions.
