A recent federal policy that dramatically raises the cost of sponsoring highly skilled foreign workers including healthcare professionals is raising alarms across the U.S., especially in rural and high-poverty communities already facing severe workforce shortages.
Under the new rule, employers must pay a staggering $100,000 fee to sponsor an H-1B visa applicant from abroad. Previously, the average sponsorship cost hovered around $3,500. This sharp increase, implemented on Sept. 21, 2024, applies only to new H-1B applicants outside the U.S., according to an Oct. 20 clarification from the White House.
Impact on Healthcare Access in Vulnerable Areas
Research published Oct. 29 in JAMA analyzed 2024 H-1B approvals for healthcare professionals across 3,240 U.S. counties. The data revealed that:
- About 11,000 U.S. physicians roughly 1% of the total were sponsored under the H-1B program in 2024.
- Counties with the highest poverty rates employed *four times more H-1B-sponsored doctors compared to wealthier counties.
- Similar patterns were found for advanced practice providers and other healthcare workers, with many filling critical gaps in primary care and mental health services.
For many hospitals, these foreign-trained professionals are not just additions to the workforce they are the lifeline keeping essential services running.
Why This Matters for International Nurse Recruitment
While much of the public discussion focuses on physicians, the H-1B visa program is equally vital for the recruitment of international nurses and other skilled medical staff. The VisaMadeEZ team knows firsthand that many hospitals depend on international recruitment to fill positions in underserved regions where domestic talent is scarce.
Increasing sponsorship costs could deter healthcare organizations from hiring qualified foreign-trained nurses, potentially reducing patient access to care and placing additional strain on existing staff.
Potential Policy Exemptions but Uncertainty Remains
The Trump administration has stated that the policy aims to encourage employers to hire more American workers. However, federal officials have hinted at possible exemptions for physicians and medical assistants, and the rule gives the Secretary of Homeland Security the power to approve exceptions if a hire serves the national interest.
To date, it is unclear how often if at all such exemptions will be granted. Hospitals across the country, along with immigration advocacy groups, are urging the government to include nurses and other healthcare professionals in these exemptions.
What Healthcare Employers Should Do Now
If your organization is considering sponsoring an H-1B visa for a nurse, physician, or other skilled medical worker, it’s essential to:
1. Assess workforce needs early: Start recruitment efforts as far in advance as possible to navigate new fee structures.
2. Work with immigration law experts: VisaMadeEZ specializes in helping healthcare organizations secure talent through the H-1B program.
3. Explore exemption opportunities: Our legal team monitors policy updates and can help petition for a national interest waiver when applicable.
How VisaMadeEZ Can Help
At VisaMadeEZ, we understand the urgency behind filling healthcare roles especially in communities where staffing shortages directly affect patient care. Our expert immigration attorneys work closely with hospitals and clinics to optimize H-1B visa applications, seek possible exemptions, and strategically plan recruitment so you can continue delivering high-quality care without disruption.
Need to sponsor an international nurse or physician? Contact VisaMadeEZ today for a consultation and learn how to navigate the H-1B visa process efficiently even under the new policy changes.
