Overview
- The directive, circulated to embassies and consulates, instructs officers to consider diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, neurological conditions, and mental disorders as potential bases for refusal.
- Officers are told to weigh age, number of dependents, English proficiency, prior use of public benefits, and to seek proof of assets such as bank, brokerage, and retirement accounts.
- Medical screening now extends beyond communicable diseases, with guidance to review official exams and clinical histories to assess whether applicants can cover long‑term care without public assistance.
- Federal officials said the change principally targets immigrant and many long‑term visas, with B‑2 tourist visas not included, though some temporary work categories could also be affected.
- Advocates and immigration lawyers warn the policy’s breadth and officer discretion could raise denials, disproportionately impact older and lower‑income applicants, and deter families from seeking needed care.