In 2025, over 6,600 foreign-born international medical residents matched into U.S. programs, marking the highest number on record, with many filling critical positions in underserved areas.

These international medical graduates often work in specialties like internal medicine, where U.S. applicants are less likely to apply, making them essential to healthcare delivery across the country.

However, foreign medical residents are currently facing significant visa issues that have delayed their start in U.S. hospitals, resulting in critical staffing shortages.

Despite the lifting of the J-1 visa pause, U.S. embassies remain slow in opening appointment slots, complicating the situation for many international residents.

Despite years of training and preparation, these residents are unable to commence their assignments due to procedural obstacles.

These delays are attributed to the travel and visa restrictions implemented by the Trump administration.

The travel ban previously impacted residents from several countries, including Afghanistan, Haiti, and Sudan, leading to uncertainty about the number of affected individuals.

While the exact number of affected foreign medical residents is currently unknown, several individuals have shared their frustrations with the Associated Press.

Residents who have managed to enter the U.S. are experiencing anxiety about their situations, fearing repercussions if they travel outside the country.

As of early July 2025, fewer than 20 requests have been made to defer or cancel residency contracts, indicating a high level of commitment among international residents to start their training despite delays.

The national organization responsible for residency matching indicated that while the visa situation is improving, it will take time to assess the full impact of the delays on the medical workforce.

International medical graduates typically fill roles in underserved areas, such as rural and low-income regions, where U.S. medical trainees are less likely to work.