Documents for Physicians and Nurses
Physicians
Physicians can qualify for an H-1B visa under two scenarios:
1. They are invited by a public or nonprofit private educational or research institution or agency in the US to teach and/or conduct research at or for the institution or agency (incidental patient care is permitted); or,
2. They have passed Parts I, II and III of the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) examination, Steps I, II and III of the US Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE), or FLEX . All foreign physicians are required to pass one of these exams in addition to any state licensing exam. Foreign graduates of approved medical schools in the US or Canada are exempt from taking these exams.
Doctors of national or international reputation are exempt from the above requirements.
Further information:
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates
3624 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2685
Tel: (215) 386-5900
Fax: (215) 387-9963
Website: www.ecfmg.org
Nurses
Nurses can qualify for H-1B visas if the position requires a four-year nursing degree. Many nurses file directly for permanent residence. Since nursing is a designated shortage occupation, nurses may file directly for Green Card without undergoing the usual labor certification process. The prospective employer may file an immigrant visa petition and Labor Certification Application directly with the Immigration Service together with a copy of the applicant’s nursing diploma or degree; nursing license; a certificate from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS); NCLEX-RN exam letter or a license from the state where the nurse will work. A VisaScreen Certificate is required when the adjustment application is filed or for the final interview at the U.S. Consulate.
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©2008 Jane Orgel. All rights reserved.DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.