CDA last November sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding Presidential Proclamation 10973, which imposes a $100,000 fee on certain H-1B visa petitions. CDA highlighted the fee’s potential impact on rural and underserved communities, federally qualified health centers, dental schools and internationally trained dentists, who play a critical role in addressing dentist shortages and supporting dental education.
DHS and the administration have since narrowed the scope of the proclamation, clarifying that the $100,000 fee applies only to new H-1B petitions filed by applicants outside of the United States.
In its response to CDA, DHS confirmed that an exception process exists in limited circumstances. Employers seeking an exemption must submit a request with supporting documentation demonstrating that:
- The individual’s presence is in the national interest;
- No qualified U.S. worker is available, that the worker poses no threat to national security or welfare; and
- Paying the fee would significantly undermine national interests.
Employers should send H-1B exception requests by email to DHS headquarters.
The guidance from DHS provides a pathway for internationally trained dentists and public health employers to continue contributing to California’s dental workforce. CDA will continue to monitor federal implementation and provide additional updates in the newsroom and through CDA’s weekly member newsletter.