The Conrad Waiver is a popular option for J-1 physicians who want to circumvent the two-year home residency requirement and start their medical career in the United States. All J-1 physicians are subject to a two-year home residency requirement, which requires them to return to their home country for at least two years before changing their status. The Conrad Waiver allows for a change from J-1 visa to H-1B visa, but requires the physician to agree to contribute to the overall social good by working in a medically underserved area.
Must be a J-1 physician subject to home residency requirement
Must obtain sponsorship from the relevant state health department
Must agree to work in a healthcare facility in a medically underserved area or serving a medically underserved population
Must commit to a three-year contract period
02
Who Qualifies
J-1 physicians subject to the two-year home residency requirement
Physicians willing to work in medically underserved areas
Those who can secure sponsorship from a state health department
Physicians agreeing to a three-year contract in a qualifying location
03
Application Process
Find Qualified Employer
Locate a healthcare facility in a medically underserved area or one serving a medically underserved population.
Apply for State Sponsorship
Apply to the relevant state health department for Conrad Waiver sponsorship.
Receive State Approval
The state health department reviews and recommends your waiver to USCIS.
USCIS Review
USCIS reviews the waiver recommendation and supporting documentation.
Waiver Approval
Upon approval, the two-year requirement is waived.
H-1B Petition
Employer files H-1B visa petition so you can begin working under the three-year contract.
Complete Contract
Fulfill the three-year service commitment in the designated area.
04
Key Benefits
Waiver of the two-year home residency requirement
Ability to change status from J-1 to H-1B visa
Path to remain in the United States
Opportunity to serve communities with limited healthcare access
05
Documents Needed
DS-2019 form showing J-1 status
Evidence of medical credentials and training
Offer letter from qualifying healthcare facility
State health department sponsorship application
Evidence facility is in medically underserved area
Three-year employment contract
H-1B petition materials
06
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a medically underserved area?
A medically underserved area is a geographic area that lacks access to adequate health services, or where residents experience significant barriers to receiving adequate healthcare. The facility may also qualify if it serves a medically underserved population - a specific sub-group of people who have difficulties accessing healthcare.
How many Conrad Waivers can each state sponsor?
Each state can sponsor up to 30 Conrad Waiver physicians per federal fiscal year. Some states have additional waiver programs that may provide more opportunities.
What are the drawbacks of the Conrad Waiver?
Physicians who use the Conrad Waiver may earn less than those working in larger healthcare facilities with more resources. Opportunities to practice certain specialties may also be limited. However, this must be weighed against the alternative of spending two years in the home country.
Need help with your immigration case?
Hasan Legal PC attorneys handle USCIS petitions, family immigration, employment-based green cards, and naturalization across Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland.