Update on ASA Request: Reported Resumption of Processing of Physician Visa Applications

Recent media reports indicate that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may have adjusted its internal handling of visa and work authorization applications for internationally trained physicians. According to these reports, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may be moving forward with certain physician visa and work authorization cases that had experienced delays or appeared to be on hold. The Administration has not issued any formal announcement or public guidance, and the scope of this reported change has not been confirmed.

The earlier pause created uncertainty for physicians, many practicing in rural and underserved communities, and contributed to staffing and training disruptions for clinicians on H 1B and J 1 visas.

This development follows the multi organization request ASA joined in April urging DHS to address the operational challenges created by the processing freeze and to ensure that qualified physicians can maintain lawful status and continue providing patient care. ASA will continue monitoring for official clarification and will update members as more information becomes available.