When Must a Conrad 30 Physician Start Work and How Long Must the Physician Serve?
A Conrad physician generally must agree to begin qualifying employment within 90 days after receiving the waiver and continue qualifying full-time service for at least three years.
The physician agrees to start within 90 days
INA §214(l) requires the physician to agree to begin employment with the qualifying health facility or health care organization within 90 days after receiving the waiver.
The physician generally serves at least three years
The statute also requires a total period of qualifying work of not less than three years.
The service is tied to the waiver
The physician's medical service is not merely an employment preference. It is a statutory condition associated with the physician's waiver of the two-year foreign residence obligation.
Extenuating circumstances can affect employer continuity
INA §214(l) contains a limited mechanism for extenuating circumstances such as facility closure or hardship, with a new qualifying employment offer for the remainder of the required period.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon must Conrad employment begin?
Generally within 90 days after receiving the waiver.
How long must the physician work?
At least three years of qualifying service.
Can the physician simply quit before three years?
Failure to complete the statutory service can jeopardize the waiver unless applicable legal requirements for a qualifying change are satisfied.
Need Help With a J-1 Waiver?
The Messersmith Law Firm represents J-1 exchange visitors, physicians, researchers, professionals, and families in complex INA §212(e) matters.
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