Obtaining a Visa

Procedure for Obtaining J1 Visa

Non-US Citizens

For more detailed information visit the Johns Hopkins International Service Office website

Step 1. Obtain valid standard ECFMG certification (as of June 14 2004)

Pass step 1 USMLE
Pass step 2 Clinical Knowledge (CK) and 2 Clinical Skills (CS) USMLE

For more information visit the ECFMG website

Step 2. The following materials need to be sent to the Hopkins Office of International Services (OIS):

ECFMG Certification valid for length of program **.
Completed J-1 worksheet (Exchange Visitor Certification Form), including -signatures from the Program Director, the Departmental Director, and the Associate Dean of Post-Doctoral Programs.
A fee made payable to ECFMG.
Home Country Government Letter from the Foreign Medical Physician's Ministry of Health.
Curriculum Vitae.
Contract or letter of offer containing title, PGY level, salary, and dates of appointment. The Program Director and Foreign Medical Physician must sign the letter.
If Clinical Fellowship, in-depth description of fellowship with length of program duration.

** NOTE: Canadian Foreign Medical Graduates do not need ECFMG Certification but they do require ECFMG visa sponsorship. In addition to the items described above (excluding ECFMG Certification), these physicians must also provide:

(1) Two passport size photos, and
(2) A notarized copy of their Canadian medical diploma (with translation, if applicable).

Step 3. Once these items are received in the OIS, the ECFMG Program Liaison will complete the MF-1 on behalf of the Foreign Medical Graduate and mail the complete petition to ECFMG in Philadelphia, PA.

Step 4. Once ECFMG receives a complete petition, they require 4-6 weeks to issue the Form IAP-66. That form is sent to the OIS. Once the OIS receives IAP-66, it is sent to the Foreign Medical Physician overseas via Federal Express.

Step 5. Upon arrival in the United States, please visit the johns Hopkins International Services offices for formal work authorization.