President Donald Trump has announced that he wants people to be denied US visas if they cannot afford healthcare in order to prevent immigrants from “financially burdening our healthcare system”.
In a statement released late on Friday, the White House said immigrant visa applicants will have to demonstrate that they will be covered by health insurance within 30 days of entering the country.
He added that they should alternatively have their financial resources to pay for medical costs.
The new rule, which will come into effect November 3, applies to those seeking visas, not those seeking asylum and will not apply to children, the White House said.
The Trump administration is trying to move towards a merit-based immigration system, with the Oresident repeatedly citing the immigration system of Canada as an example of what the US system should become.
Trump has made improving security along the US-Mexico border a main priority for his administration.
The Trump administration has battled with Congress over the wall and other border security matters, as well as his efforts to stem the flow of illegal immigrants, drugs and asylum seekers into the US.
Trending
- NNPCL, Partner restarts operations, unlock 12,000bpd output from Awoba Field
- Ogun: Two killed in rival cult groups clash
- Owner of Abuja Chinese supermarket refutes claims of barring Nigerians
- Students caught bullying mates on camera in Abuja school + Videos, photos
- Student caught bullying mate on camera in Abuja school + Video, photos
- Alake commends Nasarawa for securing mining sites
- TCN towers vandalised along Jos-Gombe 330KV transmission line
- Atiku visits suspended Sen. Ningi, says National Assembly, others must be strengthened