Asking for H1B visa sponsorship

[IamanIMG]

Hello!
I am an IMG applying for the current ERAS season, who has been doing research on a J1 visa subject to 212(e). My USMLE scores are very good and I dare say my application is pretty solid. Before starting my application, I worked on obtaining a waiver of this restriction, which I have received. That means I can safely and easily change to a H1B visa for residency.
The question is... is it OK to discuss H1 visa sponsorship during residency interviews? What is the best way to address this with the PDs?

I truly appreciate your help!😕

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[ROBINHO]

U dont have any option...u have to discuss this before u go to the match
Once u obtain a waiver...u could have problems going back to J1
I dont have the experience but I think u can ask questions about H1B during the interview.If they are flexible...u can let them know your preference. If they are strict about J1...u could try and tell them during the post interview correspondence. Maybe APD has a better suggestion. Good luck

 

[IamanIMG]

Thank you for your advice, Robinho.
I guess I need to figure out the most tactful way to discuss it. I wonder what aProgDriector's view is.
Fortunately, most of the programs where I've been called for interviewing are able to sponsor H1B visas (according to Freida and their websites).

 

[splik]

the programs you are applying to will be aware of your visa status and you will have checked yes for 'visa sponsorship needed' on your ERAS application. it is perfectly reasonable to bring it up during your interview with the PD if things are going well and they like you and you like the program. you are unlikely to have been called to interview if they weren't interested in you. It is practical and shows forsight to mention it. One way is when asked what questions you have to say 'I understand you sponsor H1B visas, is this correct?' another is when asked what your long term plans are is to mention you wish to work in academics or whatever in the US and thus are looking for H1B visa sponsorship.

I assume you have passed step 3 or will be taking it within the next month.

You may also find, as I have that the PD will bring up the visa issue themselves and let you know 'we do sponsor H1B visas'. to which you will express your interest in this visa.

 

[NotAProgDirector]

I don't have much to add to the advice above. Asking about visa options is very reasonable. Sounds like you've done your homework, and programs advertise that they sponsor H1b. The only situation that would be bad would be to interview at a program that was "J Only" on their website, and then ask for an H visa. You'll get turned down, and the program might be upset that you filled a slot that someone else, who was willing to take a J, could have had.

As mentioned, Step 3 early is often important.

 

[IamanIMG]

Perfect then and thank you both Splik and aProgDirector! I received my passing score for step 3 in August, so my application includes it already... My plan is indeed to stay in academics, so hopefully I'm going in the right direction. 🙂