1 Research Ct., Ste 450, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
International Medical Graduates & Self-PetitionS
International Medical Graduates (IMGs) may qualify to self petition (without an employer) for legal permanent residency. Physicians may qualify to “self-petition” — apply without an employer sponsor — through certain employment-based green card categories.
Self-Petitioning for International medical Graduates
Self-Petition Options
Self-Petition Options
Self-Petition Options
To become a legal permanent resident, an international medical graduate can self-petition under two avenues:
- EB-1A Extraordinary Ability – For physicians with achievements that place them at the top of their field, such as nationally recognized research, major awards, or influential publications.
- EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) – For physicians whose work benefits the United States so significantly that the usual job offer and labor certification requirements can be waived.
When It Works Best
Self-Petition Options
Self-Petition Options
- Physicians in underserved areas: The Physician NIW program allows qualifying doctors to apply while serving in shortage areas.
- Researchers and academics: Strong publication records, peer-reviewed presentations, or leadership roles in public health projects.
- Specialized clinicians: Doctors with unique expertise in high-demand specialties.
Evidence Needed
Evidence Needed
Evidence Needed
- Proof of medical licensure
- Clinical impact and patient outcomes
- Letters from public health agencies or hospital leadership
- Research publications and citations
- Documentation of work in underserved or critical-need areas
Common Pitfalls
Evidence Needed
Evidence Needed
- Weak or incomplete evidence packages
- Overreliance on hospital HR departments
- Misunderstanding NIW eligibility timelines while on J-1 waiver service
Schedule a Virtual or In-Person Consultation
Copyright © 2025 Kennedy Law, LLC - All Rights Reserved.
DISCLAIMER: This website provides general information about immigration rules and eligibility. It is not legal advice, tax advice, or a substitute for individualized consultation. Immigration outcomes depend on your specific circumstances. For advice tailored to your case, schedule a consultation with Kennedy Law.
- Home
- About KL
- Schedule / Contact Us
- Locations
- Employment Visa Types
- O, P, EB, NIW
- EB-1A
- EB-2 NIW
- Physicians RNs Healthcare
- J Waivers
- E2 Investor Work Visas
- H1B Cap-Exempt Healthcare
- H-1B $100K Fee
- B-1/2 compared to ESTA
- F-1 Student Reinstatement
- Citizenship
- Family-Based Immigration
- Inmigración Familiar
- SIJS
- SIJS Espanol
- SIJS Updates & Work EAD
- Actualización SIJS 2025
- DACA
- DACA Espanol
- Deportation & Asylum
- Contra la Deportación
- Visa Bulletin Dec 2025
- Visa Bulletin -How To Use
- Resources - Public Charge
This website uses cookies.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.