I am currently employed as an Internist / Pulmonologist in Florida as part of my J1 waiver (I am on an H1B visa at this time). In addition, I provide free services at a weekly free clinic for indigent patients.
Originally, I applied for a NIW in 2002 but was told by the Florida Department of Health that I could not get it because of my subspecialty (Pulmonology). I decided to try labor certification instead, but with my application languishing at the Philadelphia backlog center, I decided to revisit the possibility of a NIW. Since I am contracted to work at my present job for 5 years (2002-2007) I would fulfill the 5 year requirement for a NIW.
Has any physician with a subspecialty in Florida successfully obtained a NIW? I am thinking of reapplying for one this time stressing my pro bono work at the free clinic as well as the fact that most of my time is spent doing primary care any way. In addition, I was also toying with the idea of writing to my senator and congressman to bolster my case with the DOH.
Any suggestions would be very welcome. Thanks a lot!
dc4opera
Originally, I applied for a NIW in 2002 but was told by the Florida Department of Health that I could not get it because of my subspecialty (Pulmonology). I decided to try labor certification instead, but with my application languishing at the Philadelphia backlog center, I decided to revisit the possibility of a NIW. Since I am contracted to work at my present job for 5 years (2002-2007) I would fulfill the 5 year requirement for a NIW.
Has any physician with a subspecialty in Florida successfully obtained a NIW? I am thinking of reapplying for one this time stressing my pro bono work at the free clinic as well as the fact that most of my time is spent doing primary care any way. In addition, I was also toying with the idea of writing to my senator and congressman to bolster my case with the DOH.
Any suggestions would be very welcome. Thanks a lot!
dc4opera