The US government creates immigration pathways for certain skilled workers, including doctors. The United States has a constant shortage of medical professionals and looks overseas to fill this need. However, not just any doctor can immigrate. They must meet certain criteria to be eligible for one of five visa types. Here are the different Visa’s offered to doctors and their eligibility criteria:
H-1B Visa
Also known as a work visa, the H-1B is the most popular means of entry for oversees workers, and it’s the most popular for doctors as well. In order to be approved for an H-1B, a doctor must show that they have received an offer of employment from a US employer such as a hospital, university, or clinic.
O-Visa
This visa is reserved for those with a record of extraordinary accomplishments in their field. Applications can provide evidence in the form of awards, publications, etc.
TN Visa
This visa is available to doctors from Mexico and Canada who want to teach or conduct research in the US. This visa restricts the amount of time the doctor can spend with patients to less than 10 percent of their duties.
J-1 Visa
The J-1 is geared towards student doctors. It allows foreign students to attend residency and fellowship programs in the US.
E-2 Visas
This visa creates a path for medical investors. If a doctor, for example, wants to open a medical clinic in the US they can access this visa.
Don’t trust your career to anyone
Being able to work and study in the United States is a dream for many around the world. If you share this dream, you need the right immigration lawyer by your side.
US immigration law is notoriously fickle and difficult to navigate. If can be challenging, even for professionals, to keep track of all the rules and regulations.
An experienced immigration lawyer can simplify the process, saving their clients time and money. They understand what’s at stake for you and your family and will work diligently to make your dreams a reality.
If cost is a concern, many lawyers offer a free initial consultation at no out of pocket cost to the client.