11/11/2025
Our Managing Director was recently asked to provide an expert opinion on the developments regarding VISA eligibility. Here is an excerpt from the article.
Wellnest Caribbean Mental Health Specialists Ltd managing director Dr Rishi Ramoutar, in an e-mail response to questions from Newsday, said linking visa eligibility to health conditions, including mental health, is a complex issue that needs to be approached with sensitivity and balance.
“While governments have a responsibility to protect public health and ensure that incoming residents can access appropriate care, it’s equally important that such policies do not unintentionally reinforce stigma or discrimination.”
He said mental health conditions were common and varied widely in severity.
Many individuals living with these conditions lead stable, productive lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities. A diagnosis alone should not be seen as a barrier to opportunity.
“Ultimately, health-based immigration policies should be guided by fairness, compassion, and evidence while recognising both the practical realities of public health and the dignity of individuals living with chronic or mental health conditions.”
APPLICANTS for US residency visas and green cards who have co-morbidities may find it tougher to get approval, following a US State Department directive to embassies around the world to screen people with health complications.
