Immigrating to the US has become more challenging due to a recent Trump administration policy considering obesity and children with special needs as grounds for denying visas.
Shai Zamanian, a US attorney based in Dubai and legal director at The American Legal Centre, told Khaleej Times on Friday, “This shift to include obesity and chronic conditions in visa decisions showcases a broadening of executive discretion under US President Donald Trump.”
“Avoiding being a financial burden on the US government has always been key to immigration policy, but this change adds uncertainty, especially for applicants from the Middle East and emerging markets who might lack comprehensive medical records or lifelong insurance, now facing a more uncertain standard,” emphasized Zamanian.
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According to Agence France Presse (AFP), the US will now consider obesity and having children with special needs as reasons to deny immigrant visas. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly instructed US embassies to include obesity in their assessments for long-term visas, citing the potential need for costly, long-term care.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies obesity as a chronic, complex disease that raises the risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, bone health issues, reproductive challenges, and certain cancers. It affects quality of life, such as sleep and mobility. About 40% of Americans are obese.
This latest policy is viewed as Trump’s tactic to deter foreign nationals.
Zamanian expressed concern over the expansion of Trump’s executive power. He stated, “With the US Supreme Court poised to review cases challenging Trump’s presidential authority this year, this policy highlights the broader issue of whether the administration’s use of executive power has surpassed traditional constitutional limits.”
Shai Zamanian, Dubai-based US attorney and director of The American Legal Centre
‘America first’
In a statement shared with Khaleej Times by the US Embassy in the UAE, US Department of State principal deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott remarked, “The Trump Administration is prioritizing American interests. This includes enforcing policies that ensure the immigration system doesn’t burden the American taxpayer.”
The new rules will only affect those seeking to immigrate to the US, not short-term visitors.
In the meantime, Zamanian advised GCC applicants to prepare detailed medical and financial documents before consular review.
“Trump’s recent comments are influential, and it’s up to the officer to decide if they wish to examine the applicant’s medical records,” he added.
