The H-1B visa is a vital tool for foreign medical professionals looking to practice in the United States. This visa category is designed for temporary workers in specialized occupations, offering a unique pathway for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to contribute to the U.S. healthcare system.
The H-1B visa permits professional-level employment in the U.S. for up to six years, without a mandatory two-year home residence requirement.
Physicians must meet stringent academic and licensure prerequisites, including passing all steps of the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), obtaining state medical board licensure, and securing certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Before filing the visa, applicants must also comply with the Department of Labor’s prevailing wage determinations and Labor Condition Application (LCA).
