According to the data presented in the document, visa officers are instructed to consider chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer as grounds for visa denial. This new measure expands the existing medical requirements for visa applicants, which were previously limited to screening for infectious diseases, the publication emphasizes.
As noted by WP, this initiative may be part of the Trump administration's strategy aimed at limiting migration to the country. Earlier, the American non-profit organization KFF Health News reported on a similar directive from the State Department. The document mentions diseases that could burden the U.S. healthcare system with high treatment costs.
Furthermore, the State Department's directive includes a requirement to evaluate visa applicants based on new criteria, including their retirement age, the number of dependents, and the presence of special needs or disabilities. Rubio issued this directive in accordance with the provisions of the "public charge" rule, which can deny visas and green cards to immigrants who are presumed to be likely to rely on social programs or require specialized care.
