Physician Visa Waiver Program
Mission
To increase access to primary health and mental healthcare in rural and urban communities that have shortages.
Note:
Federal laws require foreign physicians seeking to pursue graduate medical education or training in the United States to obtain a J-1 exchange visitor visa to remain in the US until their studies are completed. Physicians must then return to their home country for at least two years before applying for immigration to the US, unless they meet the conditions of the J-1 Visa Waiver Program. This program is coordinated with the US Department of State, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, and the State Department of Health. If a State Department of Public Health supports a waiver, the US Department of State may allow the physician to stay in the country to work. The application cycle is open on October 1, 2024. RIDOH gives preference will be given to Physicians who have done their residency in Rhode Island or are in Primary Care.
What we do
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Set local application requirements, to reflect the state’s changeling health care needs.
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Review and approve all J1 Conrad 30 applications and all Physician National Interest Waiver (PNIW) letters.
Rhode Island Department of Health