Number: RS22584
Title: Foreign Medical Graduates: A Brief Overview of the J-1 Visa Waiver Program
Authors: Karma Ester, Knowledge Services Group 
Abstract: To qualify for a waiver, a request must be submitted on behalf of the FMG, by an Interested Government Agency (IGA), or a state Department of Health. In exchange, the FMG must agree to work in a designated healthcare professional shortage area for a minimum of three years. The ability of states to request a waiver is known as the "Conrad State Program," and was added temporarily to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) in 1994. The "Conrad State Program" has been extended by the past several Congresses. Most recently, Congress forwarded legislation the President that would extend the program through 2009.
Pages: 5
Date: October 1, 2008