Washington: The White House is reportedly considering exemptions for certain professionals, including physicians, from a recently announced $100,000 fee on H-1B work visas, according to a report on Monday. The new fees, introduced as part of an effort to manage visa issuance and prioritize the national interest, include provisions for “case-by-case exemptions” that could benefit healthcare workers and other critical professionals.
The decision comes just days after the U.S. administration unveiled the new fee structure for H-1B visas, which are widely used by employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, particularly in technology and healthcare. While the fee applies broadly, officials have indicated that exemptions may be granted in circumstances deemed essential to U.S. national interests. Physicians, who are currently in high demand to meet healthcare workforce needs, are among the professionals likely to be considered for relief.
A White House spokesperson, Taylor Rogers, confirmed through a Bloomberg post that doctors may be included in the list of exemptions. “The administration recognizes the critical role that healthcare professionals play in supporting American communities, especially in underserved areas,” Rogers said.
The new H-1B visa fee structure has raised concerns among employers, particularly hospitals and medical institutions that rely on foreign-trained doctors. Analysts suggest that without exemptions, the increased costs could strain budgets and complicate recruitment efforts for essential healthcare services. By offering targeted exemptions, the government aims to balance revenue considerations with the practical needs of the U.S. workforce.
Experts note that these measures reflect an ongoing effort to streamline immigration policies while maintaining access to highly skilled talent, a strategy seen as critical for both healthcare and technology sectors. Observers are now awaiting formal guidance from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to clarify eligibility criteria and application processes for fee exemptions.
The inclusion of doctors in potential exemptions underscores the administration’s recognition of the healthcare sector as a strategic priority. As the policy develops, hospitals and employers are closely monitoring updates to ensure that essential staffing needs are met without disruption. While details are still emerging, this move may provide a lifeline for healthcare providers seeking skilled foreign professionals amid growing workforce shortages.