The J1/H1B saga continues

[phant]

Hi guys

Still wondering about this whole thing about choosing an H1B above the J1-exchange visa option.

I am applying for first year residence in Maine in 2006. As far as I understand, one has to have written and passed Step 3 before one can apply for an H1B. HOWEVER, one has to (in most states anyway) apparently have completed a minimum of one year residency training before being eligible to sit for Step 3.

Is there any way of getting around this problem? Does this automatically close the H1B route? Catch 22.

Marc

 

[J1victim]

step 3 for H1B ... what state?

I am applying for first year residence in Maine in 2006. As far as I understand, one has to have written and passed Step 3 before one can apply for an H1B. HOWEVER, one has to (in most states anyway) apparently have completed a minimum of one year residency training before being eligible to sit for Step 3.
Is there any way of getting around this problem? Does this automatically close the H1B route? Catch 22.Marc

there are 3 states that allow you to take Step 3 BEFORE any residency training. Connecticut is the cheapest of them. so apply for Step 3 for CT
.

 

[phant]

Conneticut Step 3

So if I apply for Step 3 in CT, will that mean I only have "full registration" in CT, or will I be able to take up a residency post in Maine?

Thanks
m

 

[hadron]

Register for CT. They are pretty straightforward for the registration and they don't charge a 'markup' on the FSMB imposed fee.

Once you have taken it, it is accepted by all other medical boards for registration (although I read once that somebody in AZ had trouble due to the fact that he had taken it before the end of intern year). You still have to fulfill the individual states requirements for licensing, for FMG's this is usually 2-3 years of residency training +tons of paperwork.

For your residency, you won't need a 'medical license' or 'full registration'. Depending on the state, you might need something called a 'GME permit' 'limited license' 'training license' 'temporary educational permit' or sometimes no such thing at all. For the educational permits, all you typically need is the ECFMG certificate and a residency position.

I am still trying to understand whether you actually matched for a residency in maine or whether you are still trying to apply.

You need the result of step3 once you apply for the H1b, or at a minimum at the point in time when the adjudication officer gets your nonimmigrant petition on his table.

If your program is willing to sponsor an H1b, BY ALL MEANS GO FOR IT.

H1B OR NOT TO BE !