Thread by @rohitmarawar

What can International Medical Graduates on J-1 visas do for a smooth transition to the first job and beyond

Super niche thread for #ship30for30 15/30
#proudIMG
@ECFMG_IMG
@AANMember
@DetroitNeurons

I have experienced the convoluted pathway of J-1 waiver. Some tips 👇🏼🧵

1) On finishing training, J-1 visa holders have two options - They can move back to their home country for 2 years or work in a “J-1 waiver job” for 3 years.

2) J-1 waiver jobs are in “Medically Underserved Areas” or "Healthcare Professional Shortage Areas."

3) While many of these jobs are in rural areas, there might also be options in urban areas. Many metropolitan area hospitals that cater to low socioeconomic status or minority populations will be eligible.

4) Many academic hospitals are in “healthcare-underserved areas.”
You do not have to limit yourself to private practice.

5) Do not limit the job search to your general specialty. Jobs requiring fellowship-trained physicians are available.

Hospitals are always looking to add more expertise and services.

6) Time your job search backward - ideally, plan to have a contract in hand one year before graduation from training.

Start job search 6-9 months before that.

7) Many states open applications on September 1st of the previous year for J1-waiver applications and are first-come, first-served.

Your application needs to be ready for submission by that day.

Some states do not follow these deadlines.

8) You might need a “No objection certificate (NOC)” from your home country to apply for a J-1 waiver.

9) A J-1 visa will transition to an H1b visa when you start your job.

10) You can have your own immigration lawyer. But most employers already have an immigration lawyer experienced in these matters. The immigration lawyers are obligated to represent you fairly.

You can use them.

11) Your job contract should state if and when the employer will start processing Green Card. Discuss this clearly during the job interview.

12) Transitioning from J1 to O1 is possible but tricky.

O1 is reserved for “gifted” applicants, and the pathway from O1 to Green Card is complicated.

Talk to a trusted immigration lawyer.

13) You will need around 6 months to know if you like the place and can work there for 3 years.

That would be a good time to start green card processing.

14) After 3 years, you are free to practice anywhere but might still need an H1b visa sponsorship

15) Reach out to faculty and alumni who have applied and completed their J-1 waivers. They will be your best resource.

16) Resources for job search -
Use recruiters other J1 physicians have used.
Search for postings on your national specialty society.
3Rnet.org is a website that specializes in waiver-eligible jobs.
End of thread