Many applicants still believe: “Diabetes, heart disease, obesity, cancer… are not Class A conditions, so they won’t affect my immigrant visa.”

This thinking is outdated.

Since November 2025, the U.S. Department of State has directed all consular posts to apply a much stricter review of chronic and high-cost medical conditions under the public charge ground of inadmissibility.

Which conditions are under heightened scrutiny?

According to the internal guidance, consular officers are instructed to carefully evaluate:

• Cardiovascular diseases
• Chronic respiratory diseases
• Cancers
• Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
• Metabolic diseases
• Neurological diseases
• Mental health conditions
• Obesity – specifically highlighted because it often leads to high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, and joint problems

The core question officers will ask: Can the applicant cover the cost of medical care over their entire expected lifespan without relying on public cash assistance or long-term institutionalization at government expense?

A Class B finding on the medical report does not automatically result in denial, but it is a red flag that triggers much closer scrutiny of the applicant’s financial self-sufficiency.

What should you do if you receive a Class B classification for a chronic condition?

These steps are essential to reduce the risk of a public charge denial:

1. 1. Strong and detailed medical documentation
      • Letter from a specialist confirming the condition is stable/managed, current treatment plan, prognosis, and estimated costs
      • Evidence that the condition does not prevent employment
   2. Proof of ability to pay for medical care
      • Health insurance that will cover you in the United States
      • Clear plan to obtain insurance if you do not yet have it
      • Sufficient assets or savings to cover long-term treatment
   3. Strengthen the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
      • Petitioner and joint sponsor (if needed) should have strong income and assets, well above the minimum requirement
   4. Demonstrate employability and self-sufficiency
      • Education, work experience, job offers (if available)
      • Concrete employment plan in the U.S.
   5. Prepare for the interview
      • Be ready to clearly explain how the condition is managed and how medical costs will be covered

Advice from Truong Legal

Many cases have been delayed or denied simply because applicants assumed “chronic conditions are not a problem.” Since late 2025, this has become one of the more common reasons for public charge refusals.

Early action is the best protection:

• Assess medical and financial risk before submitting the NVC package or attending the interview
• Prepare strong medical and financial documentation now
• Work with an attorney to draft explanations and interview strategy

Do not wait until the consular officer raises the issue. By then, it is often too late.

Truong Legal helps clients evaluate public charge risk related to chronic conditions, prepare supporting evidence, and improve the chance of approval.

Contact us today for a risk assessment and early preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. 1. Can diabetes or heart disease cause an immigrant visa denial? They are not Class A conditions, but since late 2025 they can lead to denial under the public charge ground if the applicant cannot demonstrate ability to cover long-term treatment costs.
   2. Does obesity affect the visa application? Yes. Obesity is specifically mentioned in the Department of State guidance as a risk factor.
   3. Does a Class B finding mean automatic denial? No, but it significantly increases public charge scrutiny.
   4. What should I prepare if I have a chronic condition? Detailed medical records, proof of insurance or financial ability, a strong Affidavit of Support, and a clear explanation for the interview.
   5. How does Truong Legal help? We assess risk, guide preparation of medical and financial evidence, draft explanations, and support interview strategy.

Truong Legal – Helping you navigate public charge risks and move closer to your U.S. green card.

Contact us today for timely assistance.