H-1B Visa Fees

A new proclamation from the Department of Homeland Security imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications filed after Sept. 21, 2025. While renewals are not affected, this significant cost jeopardizes residency, fellowship, and research positions that rely on H-1B physicians. 

 

Why it matters to EP: 

• EP already faces a workforce pipeline challenge. Many cardiology and EP fellows are international medical graduates, some of whom require H-1B sponsorship. 

• If incoming residents and fellows cannot secure visas, the pathway to cardiology and subspecialty EP training will be blocked. 

• The result: fewer future EP specialists to care for patients with atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, and device management needs at a time when the U.S. population is aging and demand for EP services is rising. 

 

Broader impact: 

• The U.S. faces a projected shortfall of 86,000 physicians by 2036. 

• 23% of U.S. physicians are foreign-trained, many in underserved rural and urban communities. 

• Without exemptions, patient access to high-demand subspecialties like EP will be further restricted. 

 

HRS and HRA’s position: 

• HRS and HRA have joined dozens of other national medical groups urging DHS to exempt all physicians (residents, fellows, researchers, non-clinical roles) from this new fee, recognizing their entry is in the national interest. 

 

How you can act now: 

• Use the sample letter below (or add your own sentiments) and share your voice with the White House: whitehouse.gov/contact 

• Email the Department of Homeland Security: dhs.gov/contact-us 

• Emphasize how EP depends on international trainees to sustain the workforce needed to provide advanced arrhythmia care and device management. 

 

Protecting physician access to visas means protecting the future of the field of electrophysiology and protecting patient access to life-saving heart rhythm care. Thank you for your cooperation!