California J-1 Visa Waiver Program

Summary

The program offers three application pathways: Conrad 30 (for placements in Health Professional Shortage Areas, Medically Underserved Areas/Populations, and Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas), federal HHS Waiver, and National Interest Waiver (NIW), with primary care specialties emphasized.

Eligibility

Foreign physicians with J-1 Exchange Visitor Visas who have completed graduate medical education or training in the U.S. Applicants for the Conrad 30 pathway must agree to practice in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA), Medically Underserved Areas (MUA), Medically Underserved Populations (MUP), or Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas. HHS and NIW pathways are limited to primary care specialties including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and psychiatry.

Requirements Checklist

• Applicants must submit a completed application package, including proof of eligibility, employment contract with eligible practice site, and required supporting documents per pathway. Service commitment (generally 3 years full-time) in a shortage area is required. Specific forms and checklist available on the California Primary Care Office website.

Required attachments

• Completed Application Form
• Employment Contract