The AAMC joined recent correspondences requesting exemptions for the higher education community and health educators from the Sept. 19 presidential proclamation entitled, “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” which imposes a $100,000 filing fee for new H-1B visa applications [refer to Washington Highlights, Sept. 26].
This includes an Oct. 23 sign-on letter (PDF), led by the American Council of Education (ACE), urging Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to exempt institutions of higher education as an industry from the $100,000 fee. Specifically, the letter, supported by over 30 national organizations, outlines the contributions of H-1B visa holders within the higher education community in areas vital to U.S. national interests. These individuals contribute to the higher education fields by providing medical services to rural and underserved populations, conducting groundbreaking research, offering specialized and advanced training programs, and more. The letter includes several questions for clarification regarding the fee and its implementation on individuals transitioning from an F-1 student visa or a J-1 exchange visitor programs status to H-1B status.