India, Nov. 7 -- Foreign nationals applying for visas to live in the United States could face rejection if they suffer from certain chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, or cardiovascular disease, under a new Trump administration directive issued on Thursday.

The State Department issued the guidance through a diplomatic cable sent to U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, according to a report by KFF Health News.

While the U.S. visa process has long included screenings for communicable diseases, vaccination status, and mental health conditions, the new guidance expands the list of health factors that could weigh against approval.

Visa officers have also been told to evaluate whether applicants or their dependents have...