Visa processing guidelines for incoming graduate medical residents / fellows
Typically, all GME Agreements and Reappointment Agreements have a beginning date of July 1 and an ending date of June 30. In some circumstances, the H-1B may be processed for longer periods up to three years.
J-1 Visa Sponsorship
The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) issues the immigration documents for Foreign Medical Graduates. The ISSO acts as the liaison between all UMMS J-1 residents and ECFMG. Therefore, all application materials should be first submitted to the ISSO. The ISSO will compile the materials and submit all document requests on behalf of UMMS to ECFMG for issuance of the Form DS-2019.
Application process for new UMMS GME visa document
Renewal and transfer process
H-1B Visa Sponsorship:
UMMS will accept H-1B clinical physicians under certain circumstances. For more information about sponsorship policy, please see the GME visa information. In order to be eligible to transfer an H clinical status, the Resident or Fellow must have enough time remaining on the H-1B to complete the UMMS training program.
F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT):
UMMS will accept the U.S. medical school graduate on an F-1 visa. This candidate must apply for and obtain Optional Practical Training through their current medical school’s International Office, in order to commence the UMMS training program. The dates requested for the OPT should be 7/1 to 6/30. For more information visit the visa portion of UMMS’s GME website.
Dental Residency Program visa guidelines (vary from above).
Please contact the ISSOor Graduate Medical Education directly if you have any questions.