WASHINGTON: The US Department of State has announced a new policy instructing American embassies globally to potentially refuse visas to applicants with specific medical conditions, affecting both entry and permanent residency in the United States.

Under the “public charge” rule, applicants with obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or other serious medical conditions may be refused a visa if they are deemed likely to rely on government resources for treatment.

However, the directive allows for exceptions if applicants can prove they can cover their own medical expenses. The measure reflects concerns that costly treatments could place a financial burden on the US government.

It is noted that in the United States, over 100 million people suffer from obesity, while more than 38 million are affected by diabetes.

The new rule comes amid ongoing adjustments to US immigration policies and is expected to affect prospective immigrants worldwide.