US Indicates Doctors May Be Exempted From $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee
The White House has indicated that doctors and medical residents may be exempted from the new, steep $100,000 H-1B visa application fee. A spokesperson confirmed that the executive order contains provisions for waivers if hiring a foreign worker is deemed to be in the US "national interest." This potential policy shift follows widespread concern from medical organizations that the fee would deter international medical graduates, exacerbating physician shortages in underserved areas and significantly impacting Indian applicants.
Unpacked:
Medical organizations argued that the high fee would deter international medical graduates from coming to the U.S., worsening physician shortages—especially in rural and underserved areas where foreign-trained doctors are essential for maintaining healthcare services.
A fee exemption can be granted if the Secretary of Homeland Security finds that hiring the foreign worker—such as a doctor or resident—is in the U.S. 'national interest,' often due to critical workforce needs in specific regions or specialties.
International medical graduates play a crucial role in the U.S. healthcare system, making up a significant portion of the physician workforce, particularly in rural and medically underserved areas where domestic supply is insufficient.
Healthcare employers such as nonprofit organizations affiliated with higher education, government research institutions, and hospitals associated with universities are often exempt from H-1B visa caps, allowing them more flexibility in hiring foreign healthcare professionals.