Healthcare

Working with International Medical Graduates

Our team has extensive experience working with International Medical Graduate’s. We work with professionals from all over the globe; often assisting physicians through progressive pathways, and unique use of visas in entering the US workforce. Unbeknown to most, the US immigration system is structured to employ foreign nationals. At ML we are always looking for innovative pathways for IMGs to break into US workforce.

Labor Certifications for Physicians

Labor Certifications for Physicians looking to work in the US should:

1- Meet the advanced degree requirements; and prove the position requires such degree;

2-Meets minimum requirements of the permanent position on the day that the LC is filed (including licensure); and

3-Overcome the unqualified physician provision of the INA §212a(5)(b), including proof of passing USMLE.

Physician National Interest Waiver Petition

The PNIW that offers a Green Card category for IMG’s that can demonstrate a 5-year commitment in an area designated by the US Department of Health & Human Services as having a shortage of physicians. Typically, this is shown by an employment agreement with a 5-year term, and the physician must finalize the 5 years prior to receiving a Green Card.

Physician’s that are self-employed may still apply by self-executed affidavit detailing their plans and practice. The application must also be accompanied by the relevant state authority supporting the physician’s work in the public interest. Each state has its own rules in issuing these support letters, and it is important to refer to these rules prior to pursing a Physician National Interest Waiver petition.

State Legislative Reform

Tennessee is the first state in the United States to pass a bill that allows international medical graduates to work in ACGME-accredited clinics or hospitals; without jumping through many unnecessary hoops. Foreign-trained physician’s still have to be supervised for two years and meet important requirements.

Set to take effect mid-2024, this new law will allow foreign-trained medical professionals to work under supervised conditions if they are ECFMG approved, and their medical degrees and examinations are equivalent to US-trained physicians.

Nonimmigrant Visas

O-1

We know the O-1 visa is not just for foreign nationals with extraordinary abilities in the field of athletics or media. Those that exhibit extraordinary abilities in the fields of science, business or education can also use the O-1 visa to work in the United States, including physicians. We have seen successful O-1 visa applications for science-based professionals. Schedule a consultation to learn more.

E-3

Physicians can be categorized as a specialty occupation classification. Therefore, Australian nationals are able to utilize the distinct E-3 visa without the extra struggle, wait time, and burdens that come with the H-1B. The E-3 is designed to provide a lot more flexibility to Aussies and their families looking to work in the United States.