National Interest Waiver for Physicians
The National Interest Waiver (NIW) program allows foreign nationals with exceptional abilities or advanced degrees to obtain a green card without employer sponsorship or a labor certification. For physicians, the NIW presents a unique opportunity to serve in medically underserved areas while working toward becoming U.S. permanent residents.
NIW Requirements for Physicians
To qualify for a Physician National Interest Waiver, a foreign national physician must comply with the following requirements:
- Work full-time in a clinical practice. For most physician NIW cases, the required period of service is five years;
- Work in primary care (such as a general practitioner, family practice petitioner, general internist, pediatrician, obstetrician/gynecologist, or psychiatrist) or be a specialty physician;
- Serve either in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), a Mental Health Professional Area (MHPSA – for psychiatrists only), a Medically Underserved Area (MUA), a Veterans Affairs facility, or for specialists in a Physician Scarcity Area (PSA); and,
- Obtain a statement from a federal agency or a state department of health that has knowledge of the individual’s qualifications as a physician and states their work is in the public interest.
Securing a green card through the National Interest Waiver program can be a significant milestone in your medical career. It allows you to continue serving in areas where your expertise is needed the most and build a future in the United States.
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You may have questions regarding a Physician: National Interest Waiver. We invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
