President Donald Trump’s administration has rolled out new State Department instructions that could sharply limit visa approvals for foreigners with certain health conditions or limited financial means, the AP reports. The policy, outlined in a cable obtained by The Associated Press, orders consular officials to more aggressively evaluate applicants’ ability to remain self-sufficient without turning to public benefits. It marks another step in Trump’s broader immigration tightening since returning to office in January.
“The Trump Administration is putting the interests of the American people first,” said State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott. “This includes enforcing policies that ensure our immigration system is not a burden on the American taxpayer.”
The cable, distributed to all U.S. embassies and consulates, expands on existing “public charge” standards — the principle allowing immigration officers to deny visas or residency to those deemed likely to depend on government assistance. While the concept has long existed in immigration law, Trump had previously widened its scope during his first term. The new directive builds on that precedent, adding new health and financial factors for officials to consider.
Among the medical issues that could now raise red flags are chronic illnesses, obesity, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, neurological and metabolic disorders, as well as mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. The memo reportedly notes that such conditions can require “hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care.”
Julia Gelatt, associate director of the Migration Policy Institute’s immigration policy program, warned that this move could significantly narrow the pool of eligible applicants. “This could lead to a substantial narrowing of immigration,” she said. “The Trump administration is trying to go back to the policies that it worked to implement in its first term related to public charge.”
Applicants already undergo strict medical screenings before being granted entry. U.S.-approved physicians test for contagious diseases like tuberculosis, ask about drug or alcohol history, and verify vaccination records. But under the new order, consular officers must also weigh an individual’s age, education, work skills, health, family status, and detailed financial situation.
The instructions direct officers to verify evidence of applicants’ assets — including bank accounts, savings, investment portfolios, retirement funds, and trusts — whenever financial strength is cited to meet self-sufficiency requirements. Officials are even authorized to conduct interviews in English to gauge language proficiency.
Critics say the guidelines could particularly harm older applicants and those from lower-income backgrounds. Adriana Cadena, executive director of Protecting Immigrant Families, called the approach “dangerous” and harmful even to legal residents. “Its reported breadth and secrecy drive confusion and concern that deter lawfully present immigrants and U.S. citizens in immigrant families from getting help and care for which they qualify under federal law,” Cadena said.
Although the changes primarily target those applying from abroad or seeking visa renewals, immigration attorneys caution they could also affect family reunification. Loved ones of immigrants already living in the U.S. may find it harder to obtain permission to visit or relocate.
U.S. officials familiar with the policy clarified that it applies to immigrant visas — not to short-term B-2 visitor visas used for tourism or medical travel. Still, immigration lawyer Steven Heller said the practical effect could be sweeping, since the language gives consular officers broad discretion. “The new guidance is about messaging,” he said. “They are being given clearance to use the ‘totality of the circumstances’ as a sword, rather than a shield.”
Experts believe the directive signals an intent to reshape visa adjudication — shifting the presumption from approval to suspicion. With Trump’s administration focused on restricting entry for those deemed financially or medically “at risk,” advocates warn that thousands who once would have qualified could now find the door to America abruptly closed.
{Matzav.com}
