(May 6, 2026) - The Department of Homeland Security has reversed its previous policy freezing visa renewals and updates for more than 27,000 physicians currently in the United States.
In late April, the Department of Homeland Security quietly updated its travel ban policy to indicate that physicians are no longer subject to the processing hold that had frozen decisions on visa extensions, work permits and green cards for citizens of 39 countries.
The previous policy had left more than 27,000 physicians in limbo, with many placed on administrative leave from their practices while awaiting renewal of their licenses.
The department has yet to release guidance on how this change will be implemented, and some doctors have been told their cases are still on hold. We encourage members to please share any examples of doctors whose renewals are still on hold with Jaron Caffrey.