Practices Can Hire IMGs through Visa Waiver Program
Medical practices having difficulty recruiting a physician may be eligible to hire international medical graduates (IMGs) under the J-1 visa waiver program, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
Under normal circumstances, IMGs who complete their graduate medical education in the United States under a J-1 educational exchange visa must return to their home country for at least two years before reentering the United States.
But the foreign residency requirement can be waived if IMGs agree to practice for at least three years in a federally designated health professional shortage area or medically underserved area. Each state is allowed 30 waivers a year.
Organizations that have been unsuccessful in recruiting should contact the Department of Health. They must document that they made a good faith effort to recruit a US citizen.
After registering with the Department of Health, organizations will be sent CVs for J-1 physicians who are looking for practice opportunities.
These physicians must have:
- Completed a residency in family practice, general pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, general internal medicine, or psychiatry. Subspecialties may be considered.
- Not been fellowship trained to be considered for primary care vacancies
- A current visa status as indicated by their DS-2019 (formerly IAP 66 form)
- Within six months of being able to begin work when the organization submits a waiver application
Visit the
Department of Health website for forms and more information.
Last Updated: 4/22/2008