11/03/2025
Update on Potential Travel Restrictions from ECFMG
Update on Potential Travel Restrictions
Dear Program Directors:
We hope this message finds you well. We are aware of growing concerns regarding potential travel restrictions on foreign national physicians in your training programs, particularly those on J-1 visas. We wanted to take a moment to clarify the situation and provide you with the most up-to-date information available.
Current Status
At this time, no formal travel restrictions have been announced. However, it is our understanding that the U.S. government is reviewing security and vetting protocols for certain countries. While news reports suggest that additional scrutiny may be applied to nationals from some countries, the specifics of any potential restrictionsโsuch as which visa categories or the timing of any potential actionsโhave not yet been confirmed and reports on the matter have varied.
A recent article from The New York Times (published on March 6, 2025) speculated that the executive branch may consider restricting citizens from certain countries from entering the United States. According to anonymous White House officials referenced in the article, the list of countries under consideration includes those previously impacted by President Trumpโs travel restrictions, such as Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen. Afghanistan has also been mentioned as a potential addition to this list. At this time, no definitive action has been taken.
Countries Affected and Timing
At this stage, it is very important to keep in mind that we do not have definitive information on which countries would be affected or the timing of any potential restrictions. The U.S. government is still in the process of reviewing the security risks associated with various nations.
Potential Impact on J-1 Physicians
During the previous Trump administration, travel restrictions did not prevent foreign national physicians holding J-1 visas from entering or remaining in the United States for training. However, as we cannot predict the full scope of any potential new measures, we recommend that physicians from the countries mentioned above (Afghanistan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen) refrain from traveling outside the United States until further notice.
Guidance for Newly Matched Physicians
As Match Day approaches, we recognize that programs may have questions about potential impacts on incoming trainees. Please bear in mind that even if travel restrictions are implemented, there are still several months before the start of the academic year, and circumstances may change in that time. Historically, J-1 physicians have not been affected by past travel restrictions. Intealth will continue to work closely with the Department of State to stay informed on new travel policies and ensure that policymakers understand the critical role that newly matched physicians play in U.S. graduate medical education.
We understand that uncertainty around these matters can be unsettling. Be assured that Intealth is actively monitoring the situation and will provide you with updates as soon as more information becomes available. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to support your J-1 physicians and you. Please share this information with your J-1 physicians as you deem appropriate.
Warm regards,
Tracy Locklin Wallowicz, MLS
Senior Vice President, Regulatory Affairs and
Chief Communications Officer
Intealth
Eric S. Holmboe, MD
President and CEO Intealth
