Guyanese seeking another United States visitor visa after receiving medical treatment in the country are being told to provide proof that their bills were paid without using public health insurance.
The U.S. Embassy in Georgetown issued the reminder Monday, saying it applies to applicants who previously received medical care in the United States, including mothers who travelled there to give birth.
Affected applicants should present evidence that all charges associated with their treatment were settled and that programmes such as Medicaid did not cover the costs.
The notice does not mean that every visitor-visa applicant must submit medical records. The requirement applies specifically to people who received treatment during an earlier U.S. visit and are applying for another visa.
The embassy previously warned that using American public insurance to cover medical expenses could lead to visa revocation and affect future applications. Applicants may also face questions about whether they have sufficient funds to cover the purpose of an intended trip.
Having received legitimate medical treatment in the United States does not automatically prevent someone from obtaining another visa. However, unpaid bills, the use of taxpayer-funded benefits or inaccurate information on an application could affect the consular officer’s decision.
Visa applicants should rely on instructions issued by the embassy or the U.S. Department of State and should not submit confidential medical information to unofficial agents.
