J-1 Visas in California
If you want to obtain a J-1 Visa Waiver in California, here’s what you need to do:
- Start your job search about 18 months prior to when you want to start working.
- Find a job at an eligible J-1 site in our state. You can search for J-1 eligible jobs on 3RNET. Start your J-1 job search in California now.
- Connect with the J-1 contact to ask questions and learn about additional steps you may need to take.
Applications are accepted on a first-come-first-served basis beginning October 1 of each year. The California J-1 Visa Waiver Program does not provide direct recruitment services for J-1 candidates.
This program is open to board eligible or board certified primary care physicians (GPs and FPs), gynecologists, pediatricians, and psychiatrists. This program is not open to nurses or behavioral health specialists.
To request a State of California Conrad 30 Waiver recommendation letter, candidates need to:
- Apply for a J-1 Visa Waiver through the United States Department of State;
- Obtain a waiver review case number from the United States Department of State;
- Secure an employment contract with a medical facility in a HPSA or MUA designated service area, signed by the candidate and the head of the facility, to provide patient care for a minimum of 40 hours per week for a three-year term;
- Complete the application requirements found at the California J-1 Visa Waiver Program website located at: https://hcai.ca.gov/workforce-capacity/california-primary-care-office/j-1-visa-waiver-program/
California J-1 Visa Waiver Program
J-1 Visa Contact in California:
J-1 Visa Waiver Program
Department of Health Care Access and Information
J1VisaWaiverProgram@hcai.ca.gov