The Trump administration’s new rule in the US has imposed a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas. This has dealt a blow to tech companies, but the most distressing are Indian doctors and nurses who dream of working in the US. People on social media are complaining that this fee will ruin healthcare. But the good news is that medical volunteers can be exempted from this fee. Let’s find out the full story.
Trump recently signed a bill called “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers.” This bill announces a $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas. Companies will have to pay this fee, which previously was only a few thousand dollars. Trump claims this will save American jobs and companies will hire foreign workers only if their salaries are high. However, the situation in the healthcare sector is the opposite. Thirty percent of doctors in the US are foreign graduates, and 10,000 of the 43,000 residency positions are held on H-1B visas. Their average salary is just $55,000—so who would pay a $100,000 fee?
One user posted on X, “This is a disaster for hospitals. There’s already a shortage of doctors in rural areas, now these fees will shut everything down.” Experts agree. Immigration attorney Sukanya Raman said, “The program offers flexibility. Doctors, nurses, and health workers can receive fee waivers if needed.” These waivers can be granted under national interest conditions—such as a doctor shortage in rural areas or the need for foreign experts for medical research.
The Secretary of Homeland Security has the authority to grant these waivers to an individual, to all employees of a company, or to the entire healthcare sector. Provided it doesn’t pose a risk to the safety or welfare of the United States. Some reports even suggest that many H-1B holders have already canceled their tickets and are planning their return.
The 2020 COVID example fits the bill perfectly. Trump then imposed a ban on H-1Bs, but exempted doctors and nurses who were treating COVID patients or working in areas with shortages. Researchers and public health professionals also received exemptions. Even food supply chain and defense workers were granted relief. The same formula could be adopted now, especially since American hospitals are already facing staff shortages.
Overall, this fee will hit the tech industry, but it offers hope for healthcare professionals. If exemptions are granted, thousands of Indian doctors and nurses will be able to reach the US. Otherwise, the US healthcare system could be further entangled. Experts say clarification will come in the next few weeks. Until then, everyone should take a breather.
