New Visas for Foreign Paramedics and EMTs to Address Staff Shortages
This act creates a new visa category for foreign paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to help fill staffing gaps in emergency services. It sets conditions for both employers and foreign medical professionals to work in the U.S., while also protecting the jobs and wages of American citizens.
Key points
New H-1D visas for EMTs and paramedics: Allows temporary employment of foreign emergency medical technicians and paramedics in the U.S.
Candidate requirements: Foreign EMTs must have relevant qualifications, pass exams or obtain state licenses, and undergo criminal and identity background checks.
Protection for domestic workers: Employers must demonstrate active recruitment of U.S. citizens, and that foreign hires will not negatively impact wages or working conditions of current employees.
Visa cap: A maximum of 2,500 visas can be issued annually, with the possibility of future adjustments based on labor market needs.
Oversight and penalties: The Departments of Labor and Homeland Security will monitor compliance, and employers violating rules may face fines and bans on hiring foreign workers.
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