The United States is now considering obesity and the presence of dependents with special needs as potential reasons to deny immigrant visas, marking the latest move by the Trump administration to tighten immigration rules.
A cable sent earlier this month by Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructs U.S. embassies to evaluate whether applicants’ health conditions or family responsibilities could make them a financial “burden.” Obesity, in particular, was highlighted as a condition that might “require expensive, long-term care.” The guidance also asks embassies to consider if applicants have dependents with “disabilities, chronic medical conditions, or other special needs” that could prevent the primary applicant from working.
The memo, first reported by KFF Health News, was later confirmed by AFP through a source familiar with its contents.
This policy applies specifically to people seeking to immigrate to the United States permanently, rather than those visiting on short-term trips. The U.S. has historically considered whether an immigrant might become a “public charge” reliant on government funds, but this guidance signals a stricter approach under Trump’s administration.
Around 40 percent of the U.S. population is classified as obese, with higher rates observed in states that predominantly supported Trump in past elections. This measure underscores the administration’s focus on ensuring that immigration does not impose costs on taxpayers, according to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
“It’s no secret the Trump administration is putting the interests of the American people first,” Pigott said. “This includes enforcing policies that ensure our immigration system is not a burden on the American taxpayer.”
Beyond health and family considerations, Secretary Rubio has also targeted visa holders whose views or actions are perceived as opposing U.S. foreign policy, including statements about Israel.
While immigration remains a polarizing issue, this policy adds a deeply personal layer to visa decisions, prompting potential immigrants to carefully evaluate their health and family circumstances before applying.
