J-1 Visa

In order to pursue postgraduate medical education in this country, a noncitizen of the USA who is an international medical school graduate would generally secure a J-1 visa. This is required when the individual is training and is engaged in patient contact. To secure the visa, one must do the following:

1. Possess a current ECFMG certificate based on successful completion of the following current examinations: USMLE - Step 1, Step 2 (CK), Step 2 (CS).


2. Secure sponsorship through an approved U.S. graduate medical education-training program, in accordance with ECFMG guidelines.


3. Apply for an ECFMG sponsored J exchange visitor visa. The ECFMG will issue a DS2019 to the approved medical center. The document will be given to the international scholar and subsequently exchanged for a J visa at an immigration office. The duration of stay is limited to the time typically required to complete the training program in accordance with the published requirements of the medical specialty board. The maximum stay will be limited to seven years.


4. Exceptions to the above occur when the international scholar is a citizen of the United States or is related to a U.S. citizen, or if the individual enters the United States as a permanent resident. In such cases, ECFMG certification is required, but securing a visa is not required.


5. If the physician is interested in pursuing research, including incidental patient contact, this may be arranged through an approved University program outside of ECFMG sponsorship.