H-1B Visas for Physicians

Healthcare companies in the United States always prioritize finding qualified physicians in the medical field. Because of this, many hospitals, medical offices, and private practices hire foreign physicians to meet the demand for medical care for patients. One way they do this is through the H-1B visa program, which allows foreign physicians to practice in the United States for a set period of time, usually between three and six years.

H-1B visas play a vital role in addressing this demand by offering a valuable solution for physicians and their companies. These visas allow physicians from other nations to contribute their expertise in the United States, ultimately enhancing access to medical care

Experienced H-1B Assistance from MVP Law Group

If you are working as a physician or healthcare professional and are looking for guidance through the H-1B visa program, our team at MVP Law Group is here to assist you. We have the dedication and experience to help guide you through the complex H-1B visa process, making sure you meet all the requirements and submit a successful application.

Do not go through the H-1B process alone; contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your H-1B visa needs.

Why Do Physicians Need H-1B Visas?

For many physicians in foreign countries, practicing medicine and providing healthcare in their local communities is a calling. It allows them to use their skills, education, and training in many areas that may not have access to adequate health care on a consistent basis.

At the same time, the United States offers vast opportunities that these physicians simply do not have in their home countries. With that, there are a number of other opportunities that an H-1B visa provides to physicians, such as:

●      Many areas in the United States currently face a shortage of physicians, particularly in certain specialties and underserved areas. H-1B visas allow U.S. hospitals and medical facilities in these areas to hire foreign physicians to address this shortage and provide quality healthcare services to patients.

●      Many foreign physicians come to the U.S. to pursue medical residency programs essential for further specialization and acquiring hands-on clinical experience they cannot get in their home countries.

●      The H-1B visa provides physicians with employment stability and a longer stay in the U.S. compared to certain other visa categories. This allows physicians to establish themselves in their medical careers, gain experience, and contribute to patient care over an extended period.

●      H-1B visas also provide a pathway for physicians to pursue permanent residency (a green card) in the United States. Employers can sponsor H-1B physicians for green cards.

For all of the opportunities that an H-1B visa provides to physicians, the actual requirements that these workers need to meet are extensive. On top of the demands of the actual job, physicians should be aware of the requirements that they’ll need to meet in order to apply for an H-1B visa.

H-1B Visa Requirements for Physicians

Under the current system, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) oversees the allotment of H-1B visas every year. USCIS provides these visas–currently set at 85,000–through a lottery system. Obviously, this program is highly competitive.

In order for a physician to obtain one of these visas, they have to meet the following requirements:

●      Job Offer - Physicians looking to obtain an H-1B visa first need a valid job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialized medical field.

●      State Medical License - The next requirement for physicians is they must have a license to practice medicine in the state where they will be working if one is required.

●      Education - there is also an education requirement, with the physician needing to have completed their medical education at an accredited medical school or complete an accredited residency training program.

●      Verification - Lastly, physicians will need to obtain a certificate verifying their educational background, English proficiency, and licensure.

What is the Process for Getting an H-1B Visa?

Meeting the requirements for an H-1B visa as a physician is only the first step in the overall process. The actual application process can be extremely challenging, especially for a job as demanding as a physician. Not only do you have to worry about the actual rigors of your everyday work in providing care to patients, you also have to devote a significant amount of your time and energy to the H-1B process. That’s where our team’s guidance can be invaluable. We have the experience to help you navigate this process and make sure you’re on top of any requirements. Generally speaking, though, the process for getting an H-1B visa includes the following steps:

●      Employer sponsorship - The first step in the process is for an employer in the United States to offer you a specialty occupation requiring specialized knowledge and expertise. The employer becomes your sponsor for the H-1B visa.

●      Labor Condition Application (LCA) - Your employer must file an LCA with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The LCA includes information about your job, such as the wage, working conditions, and the employer's commitment to certain labor requirements.

●      Employer petition - Once the LCA is certified by the DOL, your employer files a Form I-129 petition on your behalf with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petition includes supporting documents such as the LCA, your qualifications, and other necessary evidence.

●      USCIS review - The USCIS reviews the petition and supporting documents to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for the H-1B visa. They assess factors such as your educational background and qualifications, and the specialty occupation.

●      Decision and approval - If the USCIS approves the petition, you will receive a Form I-797 Notice of Approval. This means your H-1B petition has been approved,

●      Visa Stamping, if abroad - If you are not currently in the United States, you have to apply for an H-1B visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. To do this, you will need to fill out the DS-160 form, pay the visa fee, and provide supporting documents, including the Form I-797 approval notice. Part of the visa stamping process includes an interview with a consular officer that will ask you questions about your background, the job offer you received, and your plans in the United States. They will also confirm if you meet the qualifications for the H-1B visa.

●      Visa Issuance - If the consular officer approves your visa application, they will issue an H-1B visa stamp in your passport, allowing you to enter the country and begin working for your new sponsoring employer.

Contact MVP Law Group Today

At MVP Law Group, we understand how challenging obtaining an H-1B visa can be. As a physician, you are committed to providing excellent medical care to those that need it, and our team of skilled and experienced immigration lawyers can be by your side as you navigate the visa process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your situation and take the first step toward an H-1B visa.