USCIS to host a teleconference on Conrad 30 waivers for physicians

USCIS and the Department of State ("DOS") Waiver Review Division will host a teleconference on Thursday, September 8, 2016 regarding the Conrad 30 Waiver Program. This waiver program permits J-1 foreign medical graduates who would otherwise be subject to the two-year home residency requirement to apply for a waiver if they meet the program eligibility criteria. Conrad Waivers are limited in number and are available through sponsorship by state health departments. To be eligible for the waiver, the J-1 medical doctor must agree to be employed full-time in H-1B nonimmigrant status at a health care facility located in an area designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ("HHS") as a Health Professional Shortage Area ("HPSA"), Medically Underserved Area ("MUA") or a Medically Underserved Population ("MUP"), obtain a no objection letter from his/her home country if the home government funded the J-1 exchange program, and begin the employment pursuant to a contract at a health care facility designated by HHS as a HPSA, MUA or MUP within 90 days of receipt of the waiver.

The teleconference will include an overview of the program, followed by USCIS officials answering non-case specific questions that were submitted in advance. DOS officials will also be on hand to answer non-case specific questions. Finally, the teleconference will include a listening session for taking feedback and suggestions for the program. To register for the program, visit the USCIS registration page.