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J-1 visa waiver program

We can recommend to the U.S. Department of State that the two-year home obligation be waived for qualified international medical graduates.

Request a waiver

As of October 1, 2024, the United States Department of State changed its policy, and paper submissions are no longer required. Please email the application to cdphe_img_waiver_submission@state.co.us and submit the application fee via a standard large FedEx envelope with a completed cover letter. 

Slots available

  • We typically only fill 12-15 slots each year.
  • Please contact us for the current availability of waiver and/or flex slots.

Requirements

Physicians must:

  • Practice full-time in an underserved area for three years.
  • Practice in the public interest.
  • Submit a complete application with payment.

About the program

  • Physicians who attend medical school and receive a medical degree in a foreign country are permitted to come to the United States for residency training on a J-1 visa.
    • Upon completion of residency training, these physicians are required to return to their home country for two years before applying for a new U.S. visa.
    • The two-year home-return requirement may be waived if the physician is willing to practice medicine full-time for three years in an underserved area of the United States.
  • Physicians must work in underserved areas of the state to increase access to primary and specialty medical services.
  • No state can make more than 30 waiver recommendations each year.
  • Ten “flex” placements are available each year to physicians who serve the underserved but aren't located in a federally designated shortage area.
  • Waivers can be granted for primary care or specialist physicians.

Resources