J-1 Visa Waiver Programs
The J-1 Visa Waiver programs enable foreign medical graduates to remain within the United States in exchange for a commitment to serve in designated areas. The West Virginia J-1 Visa Waiver Programs are instrumental in addressing these healthcare disparities. Its mission is clear: Improve access to primary health care and needed specialty care in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs), and other areas of the state that have health care provider shortages. This program serves as a vital pathway for highly qualified J-1 Physicians to dedicate their skills and expertise to communities facing critical shortages. The program not only brings vital medical services to these areas but also often introduces diverse medical perspectives and practices, further enriching the healthcare ecosystem of the state.
The two J-1 Visa Waiver programs are:
Conrad 30
The Conrad 30 program is a J-1 Visa Waiver program that allows foreign medical graduates to remain in the United States. In exchange, these physicians commit to serving for three years in designated areas, typically Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) or Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs), where there is a critical need for healthcare providers. This program aims to improve access to quality healthcare services by increasing physician availability in underserved communities.
Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
ARC's mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia. ARC is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local government. Established by an act of Congress in 1965, ARC is composed of the governors of the 13 Appalachian states and a federal co-chair, who is appointed by the president.
Requests for waivers under the ARC J-1 Visa Program must be sponsored by a state within the Appalachian Region. All inquiries should be made to state contacts: https://www.arc.gov/program_areas/J1VisaWaivers.asp