J-1 VISA Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does your state have an application filing deadline?
A: No. We accept applications first come first serve on a rolling basis until
all 30 slots are filled.
Q: Does your state have an application filing fee?
A: Not at this time.
Q: Does your state accept specialists?
A: Yes. Employers should be sure to address the exceptional need and public
interest for the specialist physician in that area.
Q: How many flex spots do you have?
A: Our flex spots refer to non-HPSA placements. We will consider making up to
10 recommendations in non-HPSA areas per year.
Q: What are the requirements for your flex spots?
A: Flex spots may be filled by primary care or specialist physicians. In
order to be recommended for a non-HPSA placement at least 40% of the physician's
primary care or specialty patients must come from surrounding HPSA areas. Also,
the employer letter must show exceptional need and public interest for the
physician to be placed in the area.
Q: How can I find out if a potential worksite is in a HPSA or MUA/P
area?
A: Type in the physical address of the employment location here http://datawarehouse.hrsa.gov/GeoAdvisor/ShortageDesignationAdvisor.aspx.
(Exit DHS) The result will let you know if the area is an eligible primary care or mental
health HPSA. Primary care and specialist physicians must be placed in primary
care HPSAs or MUA/Ps and psychiatrists must be placed in mental health HPSAs.
Q: What if the HPSA area is listed as "proposed for withdrawal?"
Is this an eligible area for placement?
A: No, physicians must be placed in applicable designated HPSAs or MUA/Ps.
(See above question)
Q: Will you provide a NIW letter even if the clinician's J-1 waiver
obligation was completed in another state?
A: Yes, as long as the physician meets all requirements. Please check here
for our requirements in providing a NIW letter http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/health/primarycare/J_1Visa/state_letters.htm
For more detailed program information please consult our state program
guidelines which may be accessed here: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/health/primarycare/J_1Visa/docs/applicguidelines11.pdf
Last Revised: October 07, 2011
