President Obama's Administration Lifts HIV Ban for Immigration Purposes

On October 30, 2009, the Obama Administration announced the end of a 22 year old ban on travel to the United States by people who have tested positive for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which is know to cause AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Under the ban, those testing positive for HIV were found inadmissible for entry into the United States. The ban covered every tourist and foreigner seeking to enter the United States. Waivers have been available for individuals testing positive for HIV and AIDS but the procuedures were ardous and chance of approval slim.

The new rule takes HIV infection off the “communicable disease of public health significance” list for immigration purposes. Under the new rule, foreigners applying to become permanent residents will no longer be required to be tested for AIDS. The lift on the ban is seen as a progressive step forward and fulfills President Obama’s promise to gay advocates. The final rule will go into effect on January 04, 2010.

Source: The New York Times