In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has introduced new visa guidelines that could deny entry to the United States for individuals with chronic health conditions such as obesity, cancer, or diabetes. The directive, which instructs immigration officers to consider these conditions during the visa application process, aims to protect American taxpayers from potential financial burdens associated with healthcare costs for immigrants. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized the administration’s commitment to prioritizing American interests, stating, ‘This policy ensures our immigration system does not become a financial strain on taxpayers.’ However, the move has sparked criticism from immigration advocates. Sarah Krieger of the National Immigration Law Centre described the policy as ‘unusual and concerning,’ warning that it could disproportionately affect vulnerable applicants who might otherwise qualify for entry. The new guidelines align with a broader February order aimed at preventing taxpayer-funded benefits from going to ‘unqualified aliens.’ Critics argue that the policy could lead to confusion among immigration officers and unjustly block eligible individuals from entering the country.