The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to implement stringent new health requirements for visa applicants, with obesity and other medical conditions becoming potential grounds for rejection.
New Health Screening Guidelines
According to recent reports from November 12, 2025, US consulates have received guidance to deny visas to applicants who are overweight and potentially unable to cover their medical costs. The comprehensive list of conditions under scrutiny includes obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, cancers, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and some neurological disorders.
The policy specifically targets individuals who might become eligible for public benefits, which administration officials argue could place additional burden on American taxpayers. The official guidance states: "You must consider an applicant's health. Certain medical conditions can require hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of care."
Contrasting Policies on Obesity
In a striking contradiction, the announcement about stricter health requirements coincided with Trump's Oval Office announcement about reducing costs for weight-loss injections. This parallel development highlights the administration's dual approach to healthcare and immigration policy.
Spokesman Tommy Pigott defended the measures, stating: "It's no secret the Trump administration is putting the interests of the American people first. This includes enforcing policies that ensure our immigration system is not a burden on the American taxpayer."
Financial Implications and Premium Visa Options
Research from the National Institutes of Health indicates that adults with obesity in the United States incur approximately $2,500 in additional annual medical care costs. The administration aims to reduce potential taxpayer expenses for treating obesity-related conditions through public assistance programmes for visa holders.
Meanwhile, the administration continues to promote premium immigration options. Earlier this year, President Trump introduced the 'Trump Gold Card' programme, which allows wealthy foreigners to purchase US residency for $1 million. For companies seeking expedited visa processing for employees, the cost rises to $2 million.
The controversial programme is expected to affect numerous work visas, including the popular H1-B visa utilised by approximately 500,000 people. Trump claims the gold card initiative could generate over $100 billion for the US Treasury Department to fund tax reductions and debt repayment, though specific implementation details remain unclear.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick reinforced the administration's position, stating the programme enables America to "only take extraordinary people at the very top". He added: "Instead of people trying to take jobs from Americans, they're going to create businesses and create jobs for Americans."
Additionally, a new 'Trump Platinum Card' will be available for $5 million, permitting holders to spend up to 270 days in the country without paying tax on non-US income.
