Rural Doctors Get Break: White House Waives $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee

Breaking News: White House Offers Reprieve to Rural Doctors from H-1B Visa Fee The White House announced on Monday that doctors may be exempt from the new $100,000 fee for high-skilled H-1B visa applications. This decision comes after medical bodies expressed concerns about the impact on rural America's already scarce doctor supply. Timeline: Friday: The Trump administration released an executive order introducing a $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas. Monday: The White House stated that doctors and medical residents may qualify for exemptions from the fee. Immediate Impact: The potential exemption has sparked relief among rural hospitals, which rely heavily on the H-1B visa program to recruit doctors. "This is a welcome development," said Taylor Rogers, a White House spokesperson. "We recognize the importance of these workers in addressing the healthcare needs of our communities." Background Context: Rural America faces a severe shortage of medical professionals, with many areas struggling to attract and retain doctors. The H-1B visa program has long been a crucial tool for hospitals seeking to fill these gaps. What Happens Next: The Department of Homeland Security will now determine which applicants qualify for exemptions from the fee. This decision is expected to be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as the national interest and the specific needs of rural communities. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Fortune reporting.*